MCERTS and EPR/PPC

EPR (IPPC) Background Information:

Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR) replaced PPC (previously IPPC) in 2008.

MCERTS is mandatory for major industrial processes regulated under EPR. These processes are organised into sectors, for example, food and drink; cement and lime; combustion etc and are collectively known as Part “A(1)”. MCERTS may be applied to both discharges to the aquatic environment or public foul sewer.

The Waste industry is now regulated under EPR. This includes landfill operations, waste treatment facilities and transfer stations. Negotiations are now under way with the major players to introduce MCERTS in a consistent manner. It is almost certain that MCERTS will be introduced in the near future. Some Operators have already taken up MCERTS in advance of it being a mandatory requirement.

Part “A(2)” and Part “B” processes are generally smaller in size than Part “A(1)” processes and are regulated by the relevant Local Authority. Processes covered include glass works, abattoirs, tanneries and small scale metal processing. MCERTS does not apply to these processes but many Local Authorities are deciding to use MCERTS as it is the logical standard to use for both monitoring services and equipment.

Sites regulated under the Water Resources Act are being transferred to EPR in April 2010. Implementation of MCERTS will depend on the site and the permit.

MCERTS under EPR

The implementation of MCERTS certification for Industrial Effluent discharges under EPR/IPPC is ongoing. At Trueflow we understand how difficult it is to keep up with an ever increasing number of standards and requirements.  To illustrate our ability to help you achieve MCERTS certification we have listed below some of our recent clients that we have helped to meet MCERTS certification:

• Imtech Process Ltd
• Veolia Water
• NNL Ltd (National Nuclear Laboratory Ltd)
• Scottish and Southern Energy
• Corus
• Dow Corning
• The Royal Mint

To help you achieve MCERTS we offer the following services:

First Inspection: This is usually more of a site survey to see what, if any, existing measurement structures are in place, and to assess the suitability for MCERTS compliance. We can then offer recommendations on what is required to ensure a successful MCERTS site inspection. Through our experience of completing over 1200 inspections and our independent status, we are confident of achieving the most cost effective solution, potentially saving thousands of pounds. Through having a first inspection you will benefit from a significant reduction in the cost of an MCERTS inspection.

Consultation: We are more than happy to offer advice to our clients or their contractors concerning any issue relating to achieving MCERTS certification, via email or phone, free of charge. This way you can benefit from our broad experience in measurement solutions.

MCERTS Inspection: This will involve a site inspection to assess compliance followed by the provision of a report detailing the site installation and the overall uncertainty of measurement. Following a successful inspection, you will be required to demonstrate that a suitable QMS covering your effluent flow measurement is in place before receiving full MCERTS certification. We are happy to offer advice on QMS requirements within the audit cost.