Scrap metal yards are great places for making money on your waste scrap or getting great deals on scrap materials that you need.
However, it's important to be informed and aware during your visit to a scrap metal yard to ensure safety. The use of heavy equipment and handling of large metal pieces at scrap metal yards make safety precautions important.
The following are six things to know to ensure safety when you buy or sell scrap at a scrap metal yard.
Never climb onto piles of scrap metal
Climbing onto scrap piles can be extremely dangerous. If you're having trouble reaching a particular piece of scrap, it's best to let a staff member at the scrap yard know. Staff can help you access pieces that you want to purchase safely and easily.
Pay attention to heavy equipment on the property
If there is heavy equipment such as a crane in use on a scrap yard property, you should stay aware of its location throughout your entire visit. You should also pay attention to the location of any vehicles around the facility and stay a good distance away from them whenever possible.
Don't show up in sandals or flip-flops
Footwear is one of the most important concerns when it comes to scrap yard safety. You should never go to a scrap yard wearing open footwear such as sandals or flip-flops. You need to wear closed-toe shoes or even steel-toe shoes if you have them.
Prepare your scrap before you arrive at the yard
Don't plan to clean or sort your scrap once you get to the scrap yard. Too many people cleaning scrap around the facility can create safety hazards. You should prepare your scrap before you arrive so that you minimize the amount of time you spend at the scrap yard and thereby help minimize traffic.
Avoid wandering around the scrap yard unnecessarily
It's best to stay in your vehicle as much as possible during your visit and avoid wandering around the yard. Only get out of your vehicle when engaging in activities that make it necessary such as loading or unloading.
Don't allow kids or dogs to roam free around the yard
It's best to not bring young children or dogs to a scrap yard at all. Kid and pets can easily become injured at a scrap metal yard. If you do have young children or dogs with you in your vehicle, you definitely don't want to let them out of your vehicle at all during your visit.
For more information on how to stay safe at scrap metal yards, contact a company like TNT Auto Salvage.