October 2025 marked a major change for the UK’s utility and street works sector. The new Street Works UK (SWUK) Material Classification Protocol came into effect, replacing the previous regulatory position statements and creating a single, risk-based process for classifying excavated waste.
This article explains what has changed, how JSM Group prepared for the new rules, and what we have learned from our first month working within the updated framework.
What Has Changed?
The SWUK Material Classification Protocol provides a clearer and more consistent approach to handling waste from street works. Since earlier guidance had been withdrawn, the industry needed a modern, reliable method. The new protocol now fills that gap.
Key changes include:
A risk-based approach
Every excavation that falls within the scope of the protocol must now be assessed using a standardised risk-based method. This takes into account historical land use, nearby contamination risks and environmental factors.
Applies to all qualifying works
Emergency, minor and major works must all follow the same waste classification process, regardless of size or urgency.
Stronger environmental protection
The structured process reduces the chances of misclassifying waste, helping protect land, water and air quality.
How JSM Prepared for the New Rules
In the months leading up to implementation, JSM delivered a thorough preparation programme to ensure that all teams were confident and ready.
1. Training and internal guidance
We developed clear, practical training for office staff, supervisors and site operatives. This included:
- The purpose and requirements of the SWUK Protocol
- A step-by-step overview of the classification process
- Roles and responsibilities at each stage
- Correct documentation and recording procedures
- How to segregate excavated material effectively on site
2. Updated processes and digital tools
We reviewed and modernised our procedures and digital systems to align with the protocol. These updates included:
- Introducing a desktop risk assessment during the planning stage
- New segregation guidelines for stockpiling excavated material
- A digital tool used by site teams to assess contamination indicators
- Improved waste-transfer documentation to strengthen traceability
Our First Month Under the New System
After one month of operating under the new rules, the impact is clear across planning, excavation and waste-handling activities.
Desktop risk assessments
Each qualifying permit now undergoes a desktop assessment before any excavation begins. This assessment includes checks such as:
- Historical land use
- Known or potential contamination
- Proximity to locations such as former landfill sites or petrol stations
- Any previous knowledge from earlier works in the area
These findings are passed to site teams in advance so they know what to expect and how to prepare.
Segregation and classification on site
Material handling on site is now carried out in a more controlled manner. Teams now:
- Separate excavated material into distinct stockpiles such as asphalt, sub-base or natural soil
- Assess each stockpile using standard contamination indicators through our digital tool
- Prioritise the reuse or recycling of clean material
- Handle and dispose of any potentially contaminated material in line with the new requirements
Better documentation, sampling and reporting
We have strengthened our documentation processes so that every load of waste can be traced back to its excavation location and classification decision.
We also support clients with required sampling. At least 1 per cent of excavations must be laboratory tested, as specified by the protocol. JSM is also fully prepared to provide the data required for quarterly reporting.
Benefits of the New Rules
The new protocol offers several advantages for clients, communities and the environment, including:
- Improved environmental protection through more accurate waste classification
- Greater transparency and accountability thanks to better documentation
- More consistent standards across all types of street works
- Reduced waste volumes by allowing clean material to be reused or recycled
Clear decisions supported by evidence from risk assessments and sampling
Looking Ahead
The introduction of the SWUK Material Classification Protocol is more than a regulatory update. It represents a move towards a more sustainable, transparent and consistent approach to street works across the UK.
At JSM, our focus now is on embedding these improvements into everyday operations, continuing to refine our approach and supporting clients as the wider industry adapts.