A company operating in the waste-to-energy sector, with a plant that performs pyrolysis,
believed they would fall under the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH)
regulations. This assumption was based on a misunderstanding of the regulatory
thresholds and would have led to significant additional compliance costs and operational
burdens.
We were brought in for our ability to deliver fast, practical guidance — helping the client
quickly determine whether COMAH applied, and if not, which alternative regulatory
frameworks they needed to consider.
My Approach
The client was unsure how to apply Schedule 1 of the COMAH regulations, particularly
regarding whether substances should be classified under Part 1 or Part 2. Using our
detailed knowledge of COMAH legislation and classification methodologies, we
reviewed the site’s inventory and processes. We clarified the correct interpretation of
Schedule 1 and applied the appropriate thresholds to determine that the site did not, in
fact, meet the criteria for COMAH.
The Result
The project achieved the following results:
Avoided unnecessary regulatory burden by correctly interpreting COMAH applicability.
Saved the client significant time and cost by preventing misclassification.
Provided clarity and confidence in regulatory positioning, supporting future planning and investment.
Strengthened internal understanding of COMAH thresholds and compliance strategy.
Enabled the business to focus resources on actual risk-reduction priorities rather than unnecessary compliance efforts.
Want to ensure your site is accurately classified under COMAH
regulations?
Book a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your operations and find out whether
COMAH or other regulations apply — and how to stay compliant without unnecessary
cost or complexity.
