WAC (Waste Acceptance Criteria) Landfill Classification Testing
WAC testing determines whether excavated soils and other wastes can be accepted at an inert, non-hazardous, or hazardous landfill.
Introduced under the Landfill Regulations (2005 revisions), WAC limits are designed to protect the environment by controlling what materials go to which class of landfill and how they may leach contaminants over time.
Crucially, WAC is about landfill acceptability, and is separate from WM3 hazard classification (which determines if a waste is legally hazardous); both are often needed for compliant disposal.
What a WAC Test Includes Comprehensive Analysis
Leachable Contaminants & Core Analysis
A WAC suite focuses on leachable contaminants to determine landfill acceptability.
Typical analyses cover metals such as arsenic, lead and chromium; major anions including sulphate, chloride and fluoride; and organics - PAHs, BTEX, phenols and mineral oil - alongside DOC/TOC.
Physico-Chemical Parameters & Supporting Tests
Supporting physico-chemical parameters like pH, conductivity and Loss on Ignition (LOI) are also measured.
Asbestos screening is added where relevant.
Laboratory Standards & Classification
Laboratories run EN 12457 leachability procedures and compare results against inert, non-hazardous and hazardous acceptance limits.
This delivers clear disposal routes and cost control through accurate classification and defensible, standards-based reporting.
When you need WAC testing Essential Compliance
WAC testing is essential whenever excavated soils or other site arisings are leaving your project and you need to confirm the proper landfill class. It is commonly required for muck-away, brownfield redevelopment and remediation, earthworks phases and stockpile clearances, where materials vary.
Developers, principal contractors and designers use WAC results for due diligence, to demonstrate compliance to clients, lenders and regulators and authorities, and to avoid misclassification.
It also supports waste transfer documentation by evidencing inert, non-hazardous or hazardous acceptability and informing segregation, treatment or reuse decisions from the outset.
End-to-end project control Complete Management
Kingsfield Environmental manages the entire testing process, keeping your project compliant and on programme. We design a representative sampling strategy, then coordinate safe sample collection from trial pits, excavations or stockpiles with full chain-of-custody.
All analysis is managed through UKAS-accredited laboratories to the relevant technical standards.
Clear technical guidance Practical Interpretation
Our specialists assess results against WAC thresholds and explain inert, non-hazardous or hazardous outcomes in clear, practical terms.
We then advise on compliant next steps, including appropriate landfill routes, segregation opportunities, treatment options, and where required, practical WM3 hazard classification to support informed decision-making.
What you receive Audit-Ready Documentation
You'll receive a clear, audit-ready pack that turns test data into decisions. This includes the full UKAS laboratory report with raw results and QA details; a plain-English interpretation that states landfill acceptability (inert, non-hazardous or hazardous) and explains any exceedances; and actionable recommendations to reduce disposal costs, such as segregation, targeted treatment, or alternative routes.
We also supply suitable EWC codes, WM3 hazard notes where required, and documentation formatted for waste transfer notes, duty-of-care records, client files and lender/regulatory scrutiny.
Arrange testing & pricing Fast, Transparent Quotes
Share your site location, approximate soil volumes, and any previous reports, and we'll provide an itemised quotation covering sampling, courier logistics, UKAS-accredited analysis, and clear interpretation.
To get started, send your postcode, estimated tonnage and timescales; we'll confirm the most cost-effective approach and a transparent fixed price per sample.
Fixed Pricing
Transparent fixed price per sample with itemised quotations
UKAS Accredited
All analysis through UKAS-accredited laboratories
Full Chain of Custody
Safe collection and documented sampling process
Flexible Options
Phased sampling, volume discounts and fast-track reporting
Extended Testing
Options for asbestos screening or WM3 classification
Weekend Sampling
Flexible scheduling available by arrangement
Expert Treatment & Removal our Core Services
Invasive Weeds
We provide specialist treatment and removal of all invasive weed species.
Using proven control methods and environmentally responsible techniques, we ensure complete eradication while preventing regrowth.
Japanese Knotweed Identification
Our surveyors can quickly identify Japanese knotweed on any property, providing clear photographic evidence and a detailed report.
Early detection is crucial to avoid costly complications.
Muck Away
Our muck away service offers fast, compliant removal of soil, waste, and construction debris.
We handle all materials safely and efficiently with licensed waste carriers, ensuring responsible disposal and minimal disruption to your site.