Gathering and disposing of unused or unwanted metals can be very advantageous for the scrapper and the environment. However, doing it incorrectly can lead to some very serious scrap metal injuries if not careful. Here, Sgt. Scrap, a premier scrap dealer in the Garden State, details the common injuries that can occur when carelessly scrapping metal and how you can go about avoiding them.
Safety First
Even though scrap metal can be considerably valuable, it’s important to remember it can be potentially hazardous when not handled properly. Failing to adhere to best safety practices throughout the entire scrapping process can lead to the following injuries:
Strains and Sprains
Scrap metal can be gathered from multiple sources and comes in all shapes and sizes. Because weight factors into how much money you make from a haul, many scrappers try to locate and collect the biggest and heaviest pieces of scrap. Trying to move these items using improper lifting techniques puts tremendous strain on the body and often leads to injury.
To avoid putting extra stress on your muscles and joints, ask for help when lifting heavier objects. If no one else is available, rely on equipment or other machinery to move items that weigh a lot. If you must move scrap by yourself, remember to always lift with your legs and never your back.
Cuts and Bruises
Depending on the type of metal and where it was sourced, scrap can contain rugged edges and sharp points. When handling or transporting scrap metal, it’s important to remain cautious of these dangerous touch points as they can lead it cuts and bruises on the skin.
When sourcing scrap metal, it would be wise to wear proper protective gear to help avoid sustaining injuries. Gloves and safety glasses are good to have at the ready should you need them.
Slips and Falls
Construction sites, abandoned homes, garages, and sheds are all great places to search for scrap when you have permission from the owner. However, they can contain so much scrap that they become tripping hazards. Slips and falls can lead to fractures and even broken bones if the fall is severe enough.
To prevent falls from happening, make sure there is always a clear path forged before moving any items. Be aware of your surroundings, and always leave items closest to the door first.
Eliminate Scrap Metal Injuries with Sgt. Scrap
Scrapping metal can be a profitable endeavor, but that doesn’t mean you need to do it alone. To help make the scrapping process as safe and easy as possible, Sgt. Scrap is pleased to offer clients a wide range of convenient services. Our services are designed to accommodate you and take the heavy lifting out of your hands. Our premium services include:
Mobile Pickup
One of the most challenging aspects of scrapping is transporting your collection to the scrap yard. Many people are reluctant to use their vehicles because they don’t want to run the risk of damaging them.
Sgt. Scrap offers a solution. With our mobile pickup services, you no longer need to worry about how you’re going to transport your scrap to one of our locations. This service is available for clients who have more than 500 lb. of scrap and who reside within a 50-mile radius of our location in Pennsauken, New Jersey. If you’re out of the 50-mile radius, note that weight requirements increase.
Roll-Off Dumpsters
In some cases, scrapping can be a slow process. Many scrappers prefer to accumulate scrap over time and deposit one big haul rather than make several smaller trips. We offer clients access to roll-off dumpsters of various sizes that allow them to collect scrap metal at their leisure. Once filled, our team will pick up the container and haul it away to one of our scrap yards. From there, your scrap will be assessed and you’ll be compensated fairly.
For more information on how you can better protect yourself from sustaining a scrap metal injury, or to hear more details about our various services offered at our Haddon Township and Pennsauken Township, NJ, locations, contact us today at Sgt. Scrap.