Updated QP for aggregates from inert waste

Environment Agency and WRAP publish revised Quality Protocol and trial new online compliance tool

THE Environment Agency and WRAP have published a revised version of the end of waste Quality Protocol (QP) for the production of aggregates from inert waste.

The new document (pictured) updates the original QP (first published in 2004) to reflect the latest approved industry standards, and incorporates other improvements and clarifications to make it easier for producers and users to ensure full compliance with end of waste criteria.   

The revised QP is applicable immediately in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with a transition period for existing QP producers and users until 1 January 2014.

Important changes in the revised QP include the requirements that aggregates are:

• Produced under Factory Production Control, as set out in the new European Standard BS EN 16236 ‘Evaluation of conformity of aggregates – Initial Type Testing and Factory Production Control’.
• Conform with CE marking requirements contained in the Construction Products Regulations, which apply to all aggregates placed on the market conforming to harmonized European Aggregates Standards from July 2013.

Key improvements within the revised QP include the addition of:

• A comprehensive Appendix listing all currently approved industry standards, specifications and quality controls.
• A definitive list of acceptable waste input materials.
• Improved guidance on testing procedures and requirements.
• Good practice for the transport, storage and handling of recycled aggregates.

Coinciding with the updated QP, the Environment Agency is also trialling the QP Checker – a prototype online self-assessment tool for QP compliance.

Developed under the EU-funded EQual project and made available recently for industry user feedback, the QP Checker web tool offers an easy, step-by-step guide for companies to check whether their waste-derived products meet the relevant QP requirements.

Designed initially for aggregates, the prototype tool creates a user report that documents performance and pinpoints any areas where improvements could be made. It also provides a template for regulatory enforcement officers to support producers who are working towards achieving a quality standard, and underpin a more consistent compliance regime.

Further details about the updated QP document and the QP Checker will appear in next week’s dedicated Recycling, Demolition & Waste Bulletin – a new monthly Agg-Net electronic newsletter (starting Tuesday 5 November) covering the latest news and developments in the construction and demolition waste recycling sector and related areas, including landfill.