At The Plastic Company, safety, sustainability and product performance go hand in hand. Our recycled plastic profiles are designed for use across construction, landscaping and consumer applications — delivering durability and environmental responsibility without compromising on safety.

In this article, we outline the key health, safety and environmental information relating to our recycled plastic range, giving you confidence when specifying, installing or working with our materials.

Grey Recycled Plastic Piles supporting a raised walkway over land.

What Are Our Recycled Plastic Products Made From?

Our range is manufactured from 100% high-quality recycled mixed waste plastics sourced from post-consumer usage. These materials are carefully processed under high temperatures and pressure into durable, long-lasting profiles.

While trace impurities from previous use may be present, they do not present a significant hazard. The finished products are:

  • Solid, stable recycled plastic

  • Insoluble in water

  • Resistant to a wide range of chemicals

  • Non-biodegradable (encouraging responsible recycling at end of life)

Importantly, the whole range contains no Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) listed under European REACH directives.

Health & Safety Overview

Under normal conditions of use, our recycled plastic products pose very low risk.

General Classification

  • Not classified as hazardous

  • No hazard symbols required

  • Very low degree of toxicity

Handling & Everyday Use

In solid form, the products are considered safe. However, as with most construction materials, precautions should be taken during processing:

  • Avoid inhalation of dust or fumes when cutting, grinding or heating.

  • Wear appropriate PPE during fabrication.

  • Follow safe manual handling techniques, as profiles are often heavier than equivalent timber products.

PPE Safety Glasses

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidance

When mechanically processing recycled plastic (cutting, drilling or grinding), we recommend:

  • Eye protection: Safety goggles or face shield

  • Hand protection: Anti-cut or Level 4 heat-resistant gloves (up to 932°F / 500°C for short-term contact)

  • Respiratory protection: Dust mask or respirator in poorly ventilated areas

No special ventilation is required for solid, unprocessed products.

Fire Safety Information

Like softwood timber, recycled plastic profiles can ignite and will maintain a flame. In the event of fire:

  • Dense black smoke may be produced

  • Decomposition may release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and other vapours

  • Suitable extinguishing media include water spray, foam, dry chemical powder or CO₂

Flash point is above 260°C, with auto-ignition above 300°C.

Firefighters should wear full protective equipment including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).

First Aid Measures (If Required)

Under normal use, first aid is rarely necessary. However:

  • Inhalation of dust or fumes: Move to fresh air and rest. Seek medical advice if irritation persists.

  • Skin contact: Wash with soap and water if irritation occurs.

  • Eye contact: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes.

  • Ingestion: Not intended for consumption. Seek medical advice if a large quantity is swallowed.

Environmental Responsibility

At The Plastic Company, sustainability is at the heart of what we do.

Environmental Characteristics:

  • Not harmful to aquatic life in solid form

  • Does not bioaccumulate

  • Low mobility in soil

  • Not biodegradable — recycling is strongly encouraged

Long-term immersion testing has shown no significant leaching of toxic substances, reinforcing its suitability for outdoor and ground-contact applications.

We strongly encourage recycling at end of life and advise customers to dispose of waste material in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Storage & Shelf Life

Recycled plastic products have an indefinite shelf life when stored correctly.

  • Store in a cool, dry area

  • Keep away from open flames or excessive heat

  • Prevent unnecessary damage or breakage

Transport & Regulatory Compliance

Our recycled plastic products are:

  • Not classified as dangerous for transport

  • Not assigned a UN number

  • Not subject to transport hazard classification

They are fully compliant with:

  • UK and EU REACH regulations (including post-Brexit compliance)

  • Dangerous Preparations Directive 1999/45/EC

  • Environmental Protection (Duty of Care) Regulations 1991

  • Environmental Protection Act 1990

Stability & Performance

The material is stable under normal handling and storage conditions and does not polymerise.

It should be kept away from strong oxidising agents and open flames.

Melting temperature typically ranges between 160°C–260°C, depending on the plastic composition.

A Safe, Sustainable Alternative to Traditional Materials

Our whole range offers:

  • Long-term durability

  • Resistance to rot, chemicals and moisture

  • Excellent structural performance

  • Minimal environmental impact when responsibly recycled

With no known chronic health effects, no carcinogenic components and no reproductive hazards, our recycled plastic solutions provide confidence for contractors, designers and specifiers alike.

Important Note

The information provided above is based on the best available data and is intended as a general safety and environmental guide. It should not be interpreted as a definitive safety statement. Users remain responsible for ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and safe working practices.

If you would like further technical information or support specifying recycled plastic for your next project, please contact The Plastic Company team today.