Japanese Knotweed was introduced to Britain in the 19th Century and used for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks which has spread widely along rivers, canals, roadsides, hedgerows, parks, gardens, railway sidings and derelict sites. Its rapid growth can damage buildings, pavements, roads, underground services and flood defences. It can cover large areas and left uncontrolled may have a forest like appearance. It can also be found in excavated materials including soils and top soils that may also have been imported to site.

PPE requirements indicated are for guidance purposes only. DRIDS has identified the PPE that is mandatory on all demolition projects and ones that may be required subject to site specific Risk Assessment & Method Statement (RAMS). Hover over the icon to determine the types of PPE required for the removal of this material.

It is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside act 1981 to plant or cause Japanese Knotweed to spread. A Japanese Knotweed Management Plan should be defined and implemented from the outset, identifying which materials are treated with herbicides, burnt, bunded, buried, protected by a root barrier membrane or disposed to an authorised landfill. Soil infested with knotweed rhizomes and/or cut stems should be treated on site with a choice of herbicides. These treated materials can be reused for localised landscaping that can easily be treated if it reoccurs. It should only be sent to an authorised landfill site as a last resort.

Excavators, strimmers, spraying equipment, spades, shovels, cutter, hook, scythe, appropriate fencing and signage, dumper trucks, heavy rolling equipment, root barrier membrane, membrane cutting tool, mastic gun, power washing equipment.

Japanese Knotweed, Giant Knotweed or Hybrid Knotweed are rarely fixed in place and do not have fittings or connections. They may be entwined with other plant matter, trees, ground, buildings or fencing which should also be treated.

Subject to task-specific Risk Assessment & Method Statement (RAMS). Use correct protective equipment when working with plants, contaminated materials or herbicides. Wear gloves when handling contaminated materials to prevent cuts, abrasion or contamination. Use eye protection when using tools or treatments. Only qualified operators should use herbicides. Avoid any transfer of plant cuttings or rhizomes. Ensure all vehicles are power washed before leaving the contaminated area. Use appropriate equipment, tools and treatments determined by RAMS. Store in appropriate containers for disposal.

• EA Knotweed Code of Practice
• The Cornwall Knotweed Forum
• EA Use of Herbicides Near Water
• EA Managing Invasive Non-Native Plants
• PCA Invasive Weed Control
• EA Japanese Knotweed Advice

• Manual Handling
• Safe Use of Hand Tools