Prevent plastic pellet loss

BSI has published a new standard to help organisations achieve and maintain zero plastic pellet loss across their pellet handling operations.

PAS 510 sets out requirements for the handling and management of plastic pellets, flakes and powders throughout the supply chain to prevent spills, leaks and loss to the environment. It covers topics such as organisational responsibilities, leadership and commitment, competence and training, risk assessment, and operational controls.

Plastic pellets, flakes and powders are the raw materials used to make plastic products, including mouldings, pipes and packaging. As a result of handling and management practices, pellets can be lost to the environment at every stage of the plastic supply chain from production and manufacturing to transport and storage. Once in the environment, pellets and other types of microplastics, are known to be eaten by a range of animals and are known be harmful.

David Fatscher, head of environment, social and governance standards at BSI, said: “Every part of the supply chain has a responsibility to contain any pellets they handle or manage to ensure that they do not contribute to the global plastic pollution problem. With PAS 510, for the first-time organizations have the means to put a disciplined and systematic process in place for the handling and management of plastic pellets.”

The British Plastic Federation is among the standard’s sponsors.