Business Waste Duty of Care

Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, every business has a legal “Duty of Care” for the waste it produces. In short: you’re responsible for your waste from the moment it’s created until it’s finally disposed of — even after it leaves your premises.

What the Duty of Care requires

• Store waste safely — prevent it escaping, and keep different waste types appropriately contained.
• Use a registered waste carrier — only hand waste to someone authorised to take it.
• Complete a waste transfer note — and keep it for at least two years.
• Apply the waste hierarchy — reduce, reuse and recycle before disposal.
• Separate recyclables — in line with Simpler Recycling rules.

How to check your carrier is registered

Anyone who transports your waste must be registered with the Environment Agency (or SEPA/NRW/NIEA in the devolved nations). You can check a carrier’s registration number on the public register. If you arrange collections through Stratos, we only use licensed, registered carriers — so this box is ticked for you.

Why it matters

If your waste is fly-tipped or handled improperly — even by a third party — you can be prosecuted for failing your Duty of Care. Penalties include fixed penalty notices and, in serious cases, unlimited fines. Good documentation is your protection.

A simple compliance checklist

• ✓ Waste stored securely and separated for recycling
• ✓ Collections booked with a registered carrier
• ✓ Valid waste transfer note on file (kept 2+ years)
• ✓ Correct EWC codes and waste descriptions

Stay compliant the easy way

Our licensed partner network keeps you compliant with minimal effort. Request a free quote to get set up.

Related guides

• What is a waste transfer note?
• Simpler Recycling rules for businesses
• How to switch waste providers