In July 2022, the Province of Manitoba put the Scrap Metal Act into force. So, what does this mean for you as an Urbanminer?
If you are the rightful owner of your scrap metal, it won’t really affect you. We may ask you a few more questions prior to processing your payment, but Urbanmine has already been practicing most of the legislation’s requirements for years.
The purpose of the Scrap Metal Act is to deter thieves from stealing vulnerable public and private property, then selling it as scrap metal. It also ensures scrap metal recyclers are accountable for the material they purchase.
Restricted items under Scrap Metal Act
Some examples of restricted items are copper wire, catalytic converters, brass plaques and monuments, manhole covers, streetlights and street signs. See a full list of items in the province’s fact sheet about the regulations.
At Urbanmine, some of these items have always required proof of ownership and documentation. The Scrap Metal Act ensures all of the material we receive is documented and everyone who sells scrap metal provides proper identification.
Urbanmine’s process for accepting scrap metal
Our scales are equipped with cameras that take photos of everything as it’s weighed. These photos are attached to the ticket in our system.
When you take your ticket to the scale office to be paid, we’ll ask you to show valid government-issued photo identification and provide the licence plate number of the vehicle with which you transported the scrap metal. You will also be asked how or where you obtained your scrap.
Finally, our ATM is equipped with a camera and will take a photo when you withdraw your funds. All of this is recorded in our system and attached to your ticket.
Most transactions will never be questioned; however, the information collected can be requested by law enforcement at any time. Generally, they already know who or what they’re looking for, so if you are the rightful owner of your scrap, there’s no reason to be concerned.
Remember: You should avoid hauling for—or buying scrap from—another person if you’re not certain of the source. You could be held accountable if the material turns out to be stolen.
In short, the Scrap Metal Act complements the recycling industry’s existing efforts. It ensures all recyclers are held accountable for their purchases while deterring some would-be thieves from stealing valuable (and sometimes irreplaceable) public and private property.
For more information about the Scrap Metal Act, visit the Province of Manitoba website. If you have any questions or concerns about our collection processes, contact us today.
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