What is HP14
HP14 is one of the fifteen hazardous properties of waste defined in Annex III to the Waste Framework Directive. It indicates that the waste presents a risk to one or more environmental compartments — primarily to aquatic organisms. Since 5 July 2018, the procedure for assessing HP14 has been laid down by Regulation (EU) 2017/997.
In practice, this means the waste holder must have a well-founded answer as to whether their waste is ecotoxic. If the composition is not fully known, or the calculation method gives a borderline result, biological testing provides the answer.
When assessment is required
- The waste has a mirror entry (hazardous / non-hazardous) and the decision has to be justified.
- The composition of the waste varies or is unknown — for example, after treatment or mixing.
- An authority or the receiving company requests ecotoxicity data before handover.
Two routes: calculation or testing
The regulation allows HP14 to be assessed either by the calculation method — summing the concentrations of classified substances — or by ecotoxicity testing. Calculation is only possible when the classification and content of every component are known. In real mixtures this is rarely the case, so testing is often the only well-founded route.
Calculation method
Quick and inexpensive, but requires the full composition and often gives a conservative, overly strict result.
Biological test
Assesses the actual effect of the aqueous eluate. The 48-hour Daphnia magna test to EN ISO 6341 gives an EC50 value.
EC50 limit values
The EC50 value obtained is compared with thresholds that correspond to the classification of substances as hazardous to the aquatic environment under CLP. The table shows an indicative scheme; the specific assessment depends on the eluate ratio and the type of waste.
| Parameter | Value | Assessment |
|---|---|---|
| EC50 (48 h, Daphnia) | > 100 mg/l | No effect detected |
| EC50 (48 h, Daphnia) | 10–100 mg/l | Borderline range, further assessment needed |
| EC50 (48 h, Daphnia) | < 10 mg/l | Indication that the waste is ecotoxic |
Sample preparation
For solid waste, an aqueous eluate is prepared at a standard liquid-to-solid ratio; liquid samples are tested directly in a dilution series. It is important to deliver a representative sample — in a sealed container, chilled, within 24–48 hours of sampling.
What to submit to the authority
- The accredited laboratory test report with the EC50 value and method reference.
- A sampling record: location, date, quantity, responsible person.
- A description of the waste and the justification for choosing the testing route rather than calculation.
Need an HP14 assessment for your waste?
Describe your waste — we will propose the right scope of testing and turnaround.
FAQ
Is a Daphnia test alone enough for HP14 assessment?
It depends on the case. A test battery covering several trophic levels is often used; the Daphnia magna test is the core and usually the first part of it.
How much does an HP14 assessment cost?
The price depends on the number of tests and sample preparation. We send a quote within one working day of your enquiry.
Does the test need to be repeated?
If the process generating the waste does not change, the assessment remains valid until there are changes in technology or raw materials. For streams with variable composition, periodic monitoring is recommended.