# 15 02 03 EWC code (150203) Rags, absorbents, filters and protective clothing.

> 15 02 03 EWC code (150203): rags, absorbents, filters and protective clothing. Used once an assessment shows it isn’t hazardous; otherwise 15 02 02*.
> Web page: https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=15-02-03

- Free, no account
- Based on the UK List of Waste and WM3
- Nothing is stored

## Is 15 02 03 hazardous?

No, once an assessment shows it isn’t. 15 02 03 has no asterisk, but WM3 lists it as mirror non-hazardous: the non-hazardous side of a choice between codes, decided by [assessing the waste under WM3](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6152d0b78fa8f5610b9c222b/Waste_classification_technical_guidance_WM3.pdf).

If it’s hazardous: [15 02 02*](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=15-02-02). If you can’t find out what’s in it, use the hazardous code.

It moves on a [waste transfer note](https://complyonsite.com/tools/waste-transfer-note?code=150203). The hazardous code needs a [hazardous waste consignment note](https://complyonsite.com/tools/hazardous-waste-consignment-note) instead.

## What does 15 02 03 cover?

- **Official wording**: “absorbents, filter materials, wiping cloths and protective clothing other than those mentioned in [15 02 02](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=15-02-02)”
- **Sub-chapter**: 15 02: absorbents, filter materials, wiping cloths and protective clothing
- **Chapter**: 15: Waste packaging; absorbents, wiping cloths, filter materials and protective clothing not otherwise specified

## Which everyday wastes take 15 02 03?

| Waste | When it’s 15 02 03 |
| --- | --- |
| Oily rags and absorbents | The other codes for it: [15 02 02*](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=15-02-02) |

## Which other codes sit beside 15 02 03?

The other codes in 15 02:

| Code | What it is | Hazardous |
| --- | --- | --- |
| [15 02 02*](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=15-02-02) | Rags, absorbents, filters and protective clothing contaminated with hazardous substances | Yes |

### Sources

- [List of Waste (legislation.gov.uk)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eudn/2000/532/annex)
- [WM3 waste classification guidance (Environment Agency, NRW, SEPA)](https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6152d0b78fa8f5610b9c222b/Waste_classification_technical_guidance_WM3.pdf)

The codes apply across the UK. The consignment note here is for England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own.