Hazardous waste
Farlig avfall

Drill cuttings with water-based drilling fluid

YES PLEASE

  • Water-based drill cuttings

NO THANKS

  • Drill cuttings with oil-based drilling fluid
Classification

Waste code: 7145

Suggested EWC codes: 165073 (Cuttings containing water-based drilling fluid) 165076 (Cuttings containing WBM and metal shavings from milling 165074 (Cuttings containing WBM and cement)

Hazard class: Not subject to IMDG/ADR

Packing group: Not subject to IMDG/ADR

UN no.: Not subject to IMDG/ADR

Packaging and shipping

Drill cuttings are delivered in skips or tanks (CTT and ISO). If the cuttings are slurrified, they can be transported in a bulk tank.

Recycling and processing

Drill cuttings with water-based drilling fluid are sent for suitable treatment.

Requirements and criteria

If the cuttings contain milling swarf or cement, this must always be stated on the declaration form. Such waste is sent for different treatment.

Relevant information about the waste (e.g. origin, composition, analytical results, additives and pretreatment) must be included in the declaration.

Further information

Water-based drill cuttings may contain oil residues but must still be classified as water-based drill cuttings. Since many components of water-based drilling fluids are not environmentally hazardous, the reason for declaring the waste as hazardous must be stated. Incoming inspection will identify any milling swarf content.

A SAR employee inspecting a waste facility
GLossary

Get an overview of technical terms and codes used in the waste management guide

The waste guide uses technical terms and codes to describe how different types of waste should be identified, classified, and handled. This makes it easier to find the correct waste fraction and comply with requirements for sorting, packaging, and delivery.

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