How Long Should You Keep a Hazardous Waste Consignment Note?

If your business deals with hazardous waste, you’ll know there’s more to it than just safe disposal—there’s paperwork too. One of the key documents you need to keep track of is the Hazardous Waste Consignment Note (HWCN).

So, what is it—and how long should you keep it?

A HWCN is a legal record that follows hazardous waste from the moment it leaves your site to the point it’s safely treated or disposed of. It’s essential for compliance and traceability.

You need to keep each HWCN for at least three years from the date of collection.
This applies whether you’re the producer, carrier, or receiver of the waste.

Why does it matter?
Holding onto these records helps you stay compliant with environmental regulations and ensures you’re ready if the Environment Agency or Natural Resources Wales comes knocking. It also gives you a clearer picture of your waste streams, which can help improve your sustainability efforts.

What about non-hazardous waste?

For general waste, you’ll be using Waste Transfer Notes (WTNs)—and these need to be kept for at least two years.

---

Top Tips for Staying on Track:

• ✅ Keep your records organised—whether that’s digitally or in a good old-fashioned folder.
• ✅ Double-check the details before filing to avoid errors.
• ✅ Consider switching to electronic notes for easier access and storage.

---

Managing waste responsibly isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting people, the planet, and your business. If you need help with waste documentation or disposal, we’re here to make it simple.
Visit here.