Self-audit checklist · 16 questions · Print, walk your facility, and tick every box
Any NO answer must be actioned before your next CQC or Environment Agency inspection
⚠ Since 31 March 2026 — care home managers are personally accountable for waste compliance
CQC and the Environment Agency both inspect care home waste management. Tick YES only when you have written evidence. Any NO = immediate action required.
Do you have a separate clinical waste bin for hazardous clinical waste (yellow bags/bins)?
Is clinical waste collected by an Environment Agency-licensed clinical waste contractor?
Do you hold a current signed duty of care waste transfer note for each waste stream?
Is your clinical waste contractor's EA licence number recorded on file?
Do you have a separate food waste bin with a minimum weekly collection?
Do you have a dry recycling bin for plastic, tins, and glass?
Do you have a separate bin for paper and cardboard?
Have all care staff received written waste segregation instructions?
Is a written Waste Management Plan in place at the facility?
Is clinical and hazardous waste stored in a secure, locked area away from general waste?
Are all clinical waste bins colour-coded and labelled in line with HTM 07-01?
Are bin areas accessible to collection vehicles on scheduled collection days?
Do you retain all waste collection manifests, consignment notes, and receipts?
Is food waste stored in a sealed caddy to prevent pests and cross-contamination?
Are waste segregation instructions displayed in all clinical and domestic areas?
Is there a documented procedure for confidential and sensitive document disposal?
0 NOs — Compliant
Document your evidence and keep records on file for inspection.
1–3 NOs — Review Needed
Fix all HIGH RISK gaps this week. Address MED RISK within 30 days.
4+ NOs — Book an Audit
Contact Millstone Compliance immediately for a full written assessment.
Facility Details — Complete Before Inspection
Facility Name
Address
Registered Manager
Date of Self-Audit
Clinical Waste Contractor
EA Licence Number
Regulatory References
• Environmental Protection Act 1990 — Duty of Care
• Simpler Recycling Regulations (effective March 2026)
• HTM 07-01 — Safe Management of Healthcare Waste
• Environmental Permitting (England & Wales) Regulations 2016
• Hazardous Waste (England & Wales) Regulations 2005
• CQC Key Lines of Enquiry — Safe Care Delivery