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Street Works Protocol: Everything You Need to Know Before the Deadline

Wed 09/03/2025 - 13:20

The Street Works UK (SWUK) Protocol is a new, risk-based framework designed to improve how excavation waste from utility street works is assessed, classified, and managed.

Developed in collaboration with the Environment Agency, this protocol replaces the previous Regulatory Position Statements (RPS 298) and introduces stricter requirements for risk assessments, waste segregation, sampling, and reporting.

The protocol officially comes into effect on 1st October 2025, marking a significant shift in compliance expectations for all organisations involved in unplanned street and road works.

To help you get to grips with what’s changing and how it affects your work, we sat down with Katy Strudwick and Tara Chisolm to answer the most common questions and provide practical guidance on what you need to know.

Street Works UK Protocol FAQs

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Is QROS accepted under SWUK protocol?

Not yet. Tools like QROS/TPH screens are helpful for field decision-making, but UKAS-accredited lab tests are still required for classification and validation.

How long should SWUK records be retained?

All records including risk assessments, lab results, and WTNs must be kept for at least 3 years.

What are the reporting requirements?

Utilities must submit quarterly performance reports (including lab test results & classification reports) to SWUK and upload them to the Street Manager portal.

Can multiple loads be grouped under one WTN?

No. Each excavation required individual documentation.

Is a consignment note needed for all waste?

No. Only hazardous waste (classified Red) requires a Consignment Note.

SWUK Protocol

How we can help:

SOCOTEC provides end-to-end support for SWUK protocol compliance, including:

Core Services:
• Random selection of sampling sites in line with agreed plan
• Desktop risk assessment and SWUK site assessments
• In-situ indicator testing (PAK spray, litmus paper)
• Sample collection to SWUK standards
• UKAS ISO17025-accredited lab testing and classification
• Hazardous waste reporting per sample
• Monthly reports aligning field risk assessments with lab results and showing confidence levels.

Project & Data Management:

A dedicated Senior Environmental Scientist as project lead
Weekly coordination with build partners to schedule works
Access to excavation databases for structured sample planning
Bespoke tracking spreadsheets to link risk assessments, results, and audit trail
Interpretive reporting including HazWaste Online outputs, certificates, and site-level insights
General compliance advisory service, for example assisting anyone who is in the red for 2 quarters or more
Assisting with loads rejected by receiving waste site.

SOCOTEC provides end-to-end support for SWUK protocol compliance, including:

Project & Data Management:

A dedicated Senior Environmental Scientist as project lead
Weekly coordination with build partners to schedule works
Access to excavation databases for structured sample planning
Bespoke tracking spreadsheets to link risk assessments, results, and audit trail
Interpretive reporting including HazWaste Online outputs, certificates, and site-level insights
General compliance advisory service, for example assisting anyone who is in the red for 2 quarters or more
Assisting with loads rejected by receiving waste site.