Operation Clean Sweep

Operation Clean Sweep (OCS)

Operation Clean Sweep is a crucial programme designed to prevent the loss of plastic pellets, flakes and powders across the plastics value chain. This initiative is essential for companies aiming to manage their environmental impact effectively and demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. TÜV UK, in collaboration with TÜV NORD Italia, offers comprehensive OCS certification services to help businesses enhance their operational effectiveness and community standing. TÜV NORD Italia is a Certification Body authorised by Plastics Europe to issue OCS certificates for the reduction of plastic pollution.

By achieving OCS certification, companies can ensure compliance with national regulations, improve water and wildlife quality and secure economic benefits. Certification enables businesses to take significant, verifiable steps towards reducing plastic pollution, promoting a safer workplace environment and distinguishing themselves as sustainable leaders in the plastics industry.

What is OCS?

Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) is an international programme designed to prevent plastic pellet loss, flakes and powder loss, keeping these materials out of the environment. By promoting best practices for handling and containment, OCS aims to protect the environment and comply with local and international regulations. Industries such as resin manufacturers, compounders, distributors and recyclers can benefit from OCS certification, which encourages continuous improvement in environmental practices.

Certification Process

Year 1

Stage 1

This initial stage involves a thorough assessment of your documentation to ensure it aligns with OCS requirements. Our auditor will review your current practices and identify areas for improvement, setting the foundation for a successful certification journey.

Year 1

Stage 2

During this phase, an on-site evaluation is conducted to assess the measures and procedures implemented to prevent pellet loss. Our auditors will verify the effectiveness of your systems and provide feedback to enhance your environmental management strategies.

Year 1

Certification Decision

After completing the audits, a detailed review of the findings is conducted to determine your eligibility for OCS certification. This decision is based on compliance with the programme's standards and your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Years 2 & 3

Annual Surveillance

These annual audits are designed to ensure ongoing compliance with OCS standards. Our auditor will conduct documental checks to verify continuous improvement and adherence to best practices, supporting your long-term sustainability goals.

Year 4

Recertification

Every three years, a comprehensive review is performed to renew your certification status. This audit evaluates the maintenance of standards and the implementation of corrective actions, ensuring your facility remains a leader in environmental stewardship.

Benefits of OCS Certification

Demonstrate commitment to environmental responsibility
Ensure employee safety and comply with regulations
Improve operational efficiency and reduce clean-up costs
Enhance company reputation
Secure economic benefits and market recognition

If you would like to receive a quotation for certification, please download the Questionnaire and send it to enquiries.uk@tuv-nord.com.

Downloads

Rules and Principles

PDF

5 . 53 MB

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Rules and Principles

PDF

5 . 53 MB

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Requirements

PDF

764 . 41 KB

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Requirements

PDF

764 . 41 KB

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Manual

PDF

8 . 09 MB

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Manual

PDF

8 . 09 MB

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Questionnaire

DOCX

50 . 57 KB

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Questionnaire

DOCX

50 . 57 KB

Download

Why Choose TÜV UK?

TÜV UK is a leader in OCS certification, offering:

Expertise: Our auditors are highly experienced, bringing in-depth knowledge and insights to your organisation.
Global Recognition: TÜV UK is part of the TÜV NORD Group, a globally respected certification body.
Impartial Certification: Benefit from an independent, third-party assessment.

Already certified?

If you currently hold a valid accredited certificate from another provider, transferring your certification to TÜV UK is straightforward and hassle-free. Contact us and transfer today!

Transfer My Certificate

Get Started Today!

Achieve excellence in plastic pellet management with Operation Clean Sweep certification from TÜV UK. Enhance environmental responsibility, improve efficiency, and comply with regulations. Contact us today!

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Operation Clean Sweep certification is a programme designed to prevent plastic pellet loss in the plastics industry, ensuring companies comply with environmental standards and reduce pollution.

OCS certification helps improve your company's environmental footprint, enhances operational efficiency and boosts your reputation as a sustainable leader in the plastics sector.

The certification process includes documentation assessment, on-site audits, compliance checks and regular surveillance audits to ensure ongoing adherence to standards.

By implementing best practices for handling and containment, OCS certification helps prevent plastic pellet loss, reducing environmental contamination and promoting sustainability.

Industries involved in the production, transport, storage and processing of plastic materials, such as resin manufacturers and recyclers, can benefit from OCS certification.