The British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) has today spoken to DEFRA to gain further clarity regarding the types of employees included under the ‘waste disposal sectors’ definition on its key worker list.

The senior representative has confirmed that all those frontline staff who work in the collection, processing, recycling and disposal of waste, including scrap metal, are designated as ‘critical workers’.

BMRA understands this applies to roles including mobile collectors, yard operatives and other employees that perform tasks that cannot be undertaken from home.This includes key management and support staff required to support these roles. We believe, however, that non-essential office staff as well as those who offer guidance and advice, are not included.

The Environment Agency is expected to produce an FAQ in the coming days to answer your questions, including those about site storage limits, TCM arrangements should your staffing levels drop, and many other permitting queries. 

BMRA CEO, James Kelly, said: “I am very pleased that Government has recognised the integral role the waste and recycling sector plays in maintaining societal norms by enabling our workers to continue to perform their vital role.”

If you have any concerns or questions, please call the BMRA on 01480 455249.