Scrap metal yard workers typically weigh, sort, and grade scrap metal ready for recycling, disposal, or resale.
The work can be physically demanding, and they may be outside in all weathers operating cranes, machinery and forklifts. They must be able to accurately weigh and record details of the scrap metal, as well as calculate payments for customers.
Other duties may include cutting up large items by hand, using welding equipment, and loading lorries and shipping containers to take away scrap.
Machinery used in a scrap metal yard includes forklifts, balers, cranes, shears, and shredders. Forklifts are used to move scrap metal around the yard, while balers are used to compress scrap metal into large cubes. Cranes are used to lift heavy pieces of scrap metal, while shears and shredders are used to cut and break up scrap metal into smaller pieces. In addition, conveyor belts, magnet cranes, and sorting machines are used to sort and separate different types of metals.
Some of these tasks may not be appropriate or safe for a person with significant mobility impairment, especially a person that uses a wheelchair. It is also worth noting that if such a person was permitted to work in this type of environment, there might be workplace health and safety issues in ensuring a safe workplace.
On this basis, employee-only restricted work areas may be considered exempt from all accessibility requirements under the Premises Standards and BCA requirements. However, it is important to note that any such claim for an exemption must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
If you believe you have grounds for an exemption, please complete the form below, and we will assess your claim.