Operation Clean Sweep

The Overview

Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) is an international initiative led by the Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) and The Plastics Division of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) aimed at reducing the loss of plastic pellets, flakes, and powders into the environment. It sets forth management system requirements covering all stages of the plastic value chain, including manufacturing, compounding, transportation, and logistics. By signing up to the program, companies commit to implementing systems to prevent plastic pellet loss and protect the aquatic environment.

The OCS certification scheme defines best practices to prevent plastic pellet loss, providing companies with verifiable commitments to ensure zero plastic pellet loss

Benefits of OCS Certification:

Presentation - Click Here

OCS Certification Scheme

What are the requirements for OCS certification?

Companies seeking certification for the Operation Clean Sweep need to follow the standard outlines which involves five core requirements:

• Enhance the setup of the worksite to minimize spills and leakage.
• Establish and publish internal procedures aimed at achieving zero pellet loss objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations pertaining to pellet containment.
• Conduct regular audits to assess performance and adherence to the standard.
• Provide training to employees and ensure accountability for spill prevention, containment, cleanup, and disposal.

Who can be certified to the Operation Clean Sweep Standard?

Unintentional loss of plastic pellets, flakes and powders can occur at all stages along the value chain. Therefore, the Operation Clean Sweep standard was developed to tackle pellet loss across the entire supply chain. The standard is applicable to all pellet-handling facilities. This includes manufacturing, compounding, master batching and converting of plastics, but also transportation and logistics.

Why do we need a certification standard for pellet loss prevention?

Pellets are the second largest direct source of primary microplastic pollution worldwide and a significant contributor to upstream plastic pollution. Annually, more than 445,000 tonnes of pellets escape from the global plastic supply chain, directly impacting the environment. Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) is the plastics industry's response to public concerns regarding plastic pollution in marine environments. Through the OCS certification program, the industry has established best practices to mitigate pellet loss and contributes to the ultimate goal of ensuring zero pellet loss throughout the plastics supply chain.

What is the cost of OCS Certification?

Obtaining Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) certification is cost-free.

Why AIPMA is the preferred partner for OCS Certification?

• Recognition: AIPMA has established a strong reputation within the plastics industry for its commitment to quality and excellence, making it a trusted partner for certification.
• Expertise in the Plastics Value Chain: AIPMA possesses extensive competence and experience within the plastics value chain, allowing for a deep understanding of industry-specific challenges and solutions.
• Official Approval: AIPMA is fully approved by Operation Clean Sweep, demonstrating its compliance with OCS standards and protocols. This official recognition enhances the credibility and reliability of the certification process.
• Local Presence: AIPMA's local presence and network within the plastics manufacturing community allow for convenient access to certification services, fostering ease of engagement for companies seeking OCS Certification.
• Continuous Support: AIPMA offers ongoing support and guidance to companies throughout the certification process and beyond, helping them maintain compliance with OCS standards and continually improve their pellet loss prevention efforts.

Renewal of Certificate

Every two years the OCS certificate needs renewal.

Tools and Manual

• OCS Manual - Click Here
• Checklists - Click Here

Steps For Programme Management

Best Practices