Consultation on UK Best Available Techniques for preventing or minimising impacts on the environment from industry

Closes 14 May 2026

Section 3: The ferrous metals processing (galvanizing) sector

Background

Galvanizing is a key process in ferrous metals processing, involving the application of a protective zinc coating to steel to prevent rusting. This process is integral to many industries, including construction, transport, agriculture and power transmission making products last longer and reducing maintenance costs.

Overview of regulated installations in the UK

In 2023, the ferrous metals processing (galvanizing) sector had 47 permitted installations in the UK. 34 located in England, 4 in Wales, 4 in Scotland and 5 in Northern Ireland.

This sector includes batch galvanizing sites that fall within the scope of these BATC if either of the following thresholds are exceeded:

  • an input of more than 2 tonnes of crude steel (feedstock) per hour, or
  • the volume of the treatment vats exceeds 30 m3

UK BATC for Ferrous metals processing (galvanizing) industry

UK BATC Ferrous Metals Processing Industry (Galvanising) formal draft

UK BATC Ferrous Metals Processing Industry (Galvanising) formal draft interpretation guidance and supplementary information