The guidance included recommendations on key storage and safety measures, such as stack heights, storage durations, separation distances, fire detection and suppression systems and fire breaks.
It also highlighted considerations for preparing a new FPP or applying for a permit, offering advice to operators, regulators and the Fire and Rescue Service.
A particular focus of the update was addressing the seasonal nature of the waste wood market. Waste wood volumes typically peak in the summer, while demand is higher in winter.
FPPs are a regulatory requirement for any operator with an environmental permit handling combustible waste. The revised guidance aimed to give operators greater flexibility in managing these fluctuations without increasing fire risk.
Vicki Hughes, Technical Lead on the WRA Board, said: “We are delighted to launch this updated Guidance, which reflects our learning over the last 4–5 years.
“The risk of fires at waste storage sites is now significantly reduced, which is a result of increased professionalism in the industry.
“By understanding best practice and learning as we go, the aim is to reduce the overall environmental impact of how we operate, whilst also providing first class recycling and recovery solutions.”
Fall in waste wood site fires
The updated WRA Guidance built on its original 2020 document and set out sector-specific measures agreed with the EA since 2019.
Peter Buckley, Senior Fire Adviser at the EA, added: “Since the original Guide was developed, technology and practices have changed which allows a more creative approach to developing Fire Prevention Plans.
“This addition to the original Guide will be a useful reference for site operators and environment officers.”
According to the WRA, the changes follow a sharp fall in fires at waste wood sites, alongside a rise in bespoke permits being issued to operators.
These permits, which provide greater flexibility compared with standard FPPs, have become more common as the sector adapts to evolving operational challenges.
The WRA hoped the updated Guidance will “continue to support safe and efficient waste wood recycling, embedding lessons learned across the sector while maintaining a strong focus on fire prevention.”
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