What You Need to Know Before October 2025
In our latest article, we explain the Street Works UK material classification protocol and how it will affect excavation waste management.
We will examine the advantages and challenges, from risk-based testing to stricter reporting.
At CTS, we are trusted partners for on-site sampling, accredited laboratory testing, and an expert classification service.
Key Takeaways
-
The Street Works Protocol takes effect from 1 October 2025, replacing existing RPS guidance.
-
Risk-based classification now governs excavation waste management, requiring segregation, risk assessments, and lab validation.
-
Minimum 1% sampling and quarterly reporting are essential; poor accuracy can lead to escalated scrutiny.
CTS is your partner in compliance, offering end-to-end support: on-site sampling, lab testing, classification, and advisory.
Understanding the Shift: From RPS to the Street Works UK Protocol
Why the Protocol Is Changing and What It Means for You
The Street Works UK material classification protocol (SWUK) will replace RPS 298 and RPS 299 on 1 October 2025. This signals a major shift in excavation waste management. Rather than relying on simplified guidance, the new convention introduces a fully risk-based approach that prioritises accurate waste classification.
The change in protocol is designed to ensure better consistency across the industry, improve environmental sustainability, and align with regulatory expectations. The SWUK protocol aims to give local authorities, contractors, and regulators a clearer picture of excavation waste streams by requiring detailed site-based assessments with validation through accredited laboratory testing.
For many utility and construction businesses, this means stricter obligations but also a more transparent process that helps to reduce uncertainty. With the right support, staying compliant under the SWUK protocol becomes a more structured, manageable part of operations.
Key Requirements Under the New Street Works Protocol
Desk-Based and Site-Based Risk Assessments
- Every project must start with mandatory risk assessments prior to waste removal
- Desk-based gathers historical background data, while site-based drives classification at the point of excavation.
Both are mandatory before waste can be removed.
Segregation Rules: Keep Waste Types Separate
- Waste types must remain separate. Asphalt, Sub-base, Hazardous and Non-hazardous materials cannot be mixed.
- Segregation is essential not only for compliance but also for accurate downstream testing.
Sampling & Lab Validation Protocols
- At least 1% of prior excavations must be sampled and tested in UKAS/MCERTS-accredited laboratories.
- If the correlation between site and lab results falls below 93%, testing requirements may rise to 3%.
- Laboratory results validate accuracy but do not alter the initial classification determined on-site.
Reporting & Monitoring Obligations
- Quarterly submissions of both site classifications and laboratory validation must be uploaded to the Street Manager portal and sent to Street Works UK (SWUK).
- The Environmental Agency will oversee compliance, and poor accuracy results may result in escalated testing requirements or exclusion from the protocol altogether.
How Construction Testing Services (CTS) Supports Your Compliance Journey
Seamless On-Site Sampling Services
At CTS, our trained technicians collect compliant samples for every waste stream, from asphalt to sub-base. All materials are handled in the correct containers with complete paperwork to ensure a smooth transfer to the laboratory.
Accredited Laboratory Analysis & Clear Reports
At our Leicester facility, testing is carried out in a UKAS-accredited laboratory as required under the Street Works UK material classification protocol. Our results are fully transparent, accurate and delivered quickly to ensure decision makers have all the information required to act with confidence.
Classification, Interpretation & Expert Insight with CTS
We provide clear Green (non-hazardous) or Red (Hazardous) classifications. This includes detailed breakdowns of hazardous drivers. Our clients also receive Street Works Hazardous Waste Summaries ready for compliance records.
FAQs About the New Street Works Protocol
What exactly is the Street Works Protocol?
SWUK protocol is a risk-based framework for classifying waste from utility and street excavation, replacing RPS 298 and RPS299 from 1 October 2025. The Street Works UK material classification protocol is designed specifically to bring consistency, accuracy and accountability across the sector.
How much testing is required?
At least 1% of qualifying excavations must be lab-tested. This requirement is calculated on your excavations from the prior two years. If the accuracy between site classification and lab results drops below 93%, the rate can increase to 3%.
Do lab results change waste classification?
No. Classification happens on-site during the risk assessment. Laboratory results are used to verify compliance with the SWUK protocol and to ensure accuracy in reporting.
How often do I need to report?
Reports must be submitted quarterly. This includes classification data and lab results uploaded to the Street Manager portal and must be submitted to Street Works UK.
What happens if I fail to meet accuracy thresholds?
The Environment Agency may increase testing obligations or remove the ability to operate under the protocol. Working with CTS ensures compliance and the avoidance of costly disruptions.