For any organisation handling confidential information, secure shredding and recycling are essential for both data protection and environmental responsibility. This process not only ensures your business complies with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, but it also provides a cost-effective, convenient, and sustainable way to dispose of sensitive documents.

At Restore Datashred, we combine security, compliance, and sustainability to deliver trusted shredding services for businesses across the UK.

How Does Secure Shredding Work?

The security level of shredding depends largely on the type of shredder and the size of the shredded particles it produces.

• Strip cut shredding (also known as “spaghetti shredding”) cuts documents into long, narrow strips. It’s the least secure method, as documents can sometimes be reconstructed.

• Cross cut and micro cut shredding, by contrast, destroy documents into hundreds or even thousands of tiny fragments, making them impossible to reassemble.

When you work with a professional shredding provider like Restore Datashred, your documents are destroyed using industrial-grade machines that far exceed the security capabilities of standard office shredders.

Understanding Secure Shredding Standards

In the UK, the recognised benchmark for secure destruction is BS EN 15713:2023, the British Standard for the Secure Destruction of Confidential Material.

This standard ensures that every stage of the destruction process is fully protected from collection and transport to shredding and recycling.

Working with a shredding partner certified to EN 15713 means your data is handled securely by:

• Trained and security-vetted staff (BS7858 compliant).

• Secure collection methods and lockable containers.

• Tracked transport vehicles maintaining a clear chain of custody.

• Certified and environmentally responsible recycling of shredded materials.

At Restore Datashred, we are proud to meet and exceed these standards, providing complete peace of mind and proof of compliance through a Certificate of Destruction after every service.

Can Shredded Documents Be Reconstructed?

When shredded to professional standards, it’s virtually impossible for anyone to reconstruct your documents. However, using low-security office shredders such as strip-cut models can leave your business vulnerable to data breaches or identity theft.

With Restore Datashred’s professional shredding service, your confidential paper waste is rendered completely unreadable and recycled in full compliance with UK data protection legislation.

Security Before and During Shredding

Document protection doesn’t begin at the shredder — it starts the moment sensitive information is created.
To minimise the risk of exposure before destruction, it’s important to establish secure handling procedures, including:

• Using lockable consoles or confidential waste bins instead of open trays.

• Ensuring secure, tracked collection by vetted staff.

• Choosing on-site shredding so documents never leave your premises before destruction.

Restore Datashred maintains a secure chain of custody throughout the entire process, ensuring full compliance and accountability.

Sustainability: Shredding and Recycling Go Hand in Hand

Every tonne of paper shredded and recycled saves approximately 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water.
At Restore Datashred, 100% of shredded paper is recycled through approved facilities, helping your business meet environmental goals and reduce landfill waste all while protecting sensitive information.

Our commitment to sustainability means your data security and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.

Partner with Restore Datashred for Certified, Secure Shredding

When it comes to protecting your business data and reputation, trust the experts. As a BSIA member and EN 15713-accredited provider, Restore Datashred delivers GDPR-compliant, fully certified, and eco-friendly shredding services across the UK.

Get in touch today to arrange secure document shredding whether you need a one-off collection or a regular scheduled service.