# Scrap metal EWC code 17 04 05 for iron and steel, 17 04 07 for mixed metals from building work.

> Scrap metal EWC code: 17 04 05 for steel, 17 04 07 for mixed metals, a code for each metal, and when cable, tins or 20 01 40 apply instead.
> Web page: https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?waste=metal

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

## Which EWC code for each metal?

| Metal | Code |
| --- | --- |
| Copper, bronze and brass | 17 04 01 |
| Aluminium | 17 04 02 |
| Lead | 17 04 03 |
| Zinc | 17 04 04 |
| Iron and steel | 17 04 05 |
| Tin | 17 04 06 |
| Mixed metals | 17 04 07 |
| Contaminated with hazardous substances | 17 04 09* |

Any of them is 17 04 09* if an assessment finds it contaminated with hazardous substances, or if you can’t find out.

## Is scrap cable hazardous waste?

Usually. GOV.UK says most electrical and telecoms cable that isn’t WEEE contains hazardous substances, so it needs an assessment before it can go as non-hazardous. Cable containing oil, coal tar or other hazardous substances is 17 04 10*. Cable shown not to is 17 04 11. Cable inside electrical equipment goes with the equipment: see [WEEE codes](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?waste=weee).

## When is metal 20 01 40 or 15 01 04 instead?

- **Building and demolition metal**: 17 04, by metal, as above.
- **Other metal collected separately**: [20 01 40](https://complyonsite.com/tools/ewc-code-finder?code=20-01-40), when it isn’t from building work or packaging.
- **Empty tins and drums**: 15 01 04, or 15 01 10* with a hazardous residue.
- **Metal sorted at a treatment site**: 19 12 02 for iron and steel, 19 12 03 for other metals.

### Sources

- [List of Waste, as retained in UK law (legislation.gov.uk)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/eudn/2000/532/annex)
- [GOV.UK, Construction and demolition waste: how to classify](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/construction-and-demolition-waste-how-to-classify)
- [GOV.UK, Packaging waste and recyclables: how to classify](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/packaging-waste-and-recyclables-how-to-classify)
- [GOV.UK, Wastes from mechanical treatment of waste: how to classify](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/wastes-from-mechanical-treatment-of-waste-how-to-classify)