Responsibilities
Who do business waste laws apply to?
Anyone that makes, stores, transports, processes, or disposes of waste has a duty of care. This applies to all businesses. It's the business owner’s duty to make sure that their waste is being managed responsibly. This applies even if you outsource your waste management. You should only ever use legitimate, reliable, and reputable waste management companies.
Where do I store my business waste?
You're responsible for safely and securely storing your business's waste. It should be kept in a safe place, in clearly labelled, suitable, covered containers. Store different wastes separately so that they don’t contaminate each other. They can then be reused or recycled more easily. If your business produces hazardous waste, there are extra responsibilities for the storage of this.
Waste transfer notes
Every time waste is removed from your business a waste transfer note must be filled out or you should be issued with a document that contains the same details. An example of this could be an invoice. If you have an ongoing waste collection contract where the details remain the same, this may be issued annually.
Waste transfer notes must be kept for two years for most waste, and three years for hazardous waste. The waste transfer note shows the certain details. This includes description of the waste, how it's contained, how much there is, your details, the collector’s details and the location of the collection.
Waste carriers’ licence
If you want to dispose of your own waste regularly you must register as a waste carrier. You should also check whether any company you use to transport or dispose of your waste is a registered waste carrier. You can check this by visiting the Environment Agency register. You can ask to see, and keep proof of, a waste carrier registration certificate. You can also ask for a receipt, ask where your waste is being taken and take note of the name and vehicle registration of the collection.
Why can’t I put it in my household bins and why do I need to pay for it?
Household bins are for household waste only. This doesn't include any waste generated as part of a business. Business waste can't be disposed of through household waste or recycling bins. It also can't be taken to a Household Waste Recycling Centre.
All businesses that produce waste must have a commercial waste agreement and be able to produce this on request. Your business rates don't include waste disposal. Any waste or recycling from your business should be collected and disposed of by a licensed waste carrier. This still applies if it's run from your home. It can also be taken to a site licensed to handle business waste and disposal charges paid.
Do I have to recycle?
UK waste regulations require businesses to follow the waste hierarchy. This includes separating recyclable materials from general waste.
How can we help?
We can offer collections of the following:
- General waste
- Paper and cardboard recycling
We can take the hassle out of setting up collections as we'll work with you to provide you with the right number and size of bins. We'll take care of all the paperwork including waste transfer notes at competitive rates and with fixed-price contracts.
If you run a business in Rotherham, we can help you recycle your waste.
We can offer you a regular, reliable service at good rates and with fixed-price contracts.