A voluntary code of practice for metals recycling companies that aims to help clamp down on metals thefts has been launched by the British Metals Recycling Association (BMRA) and Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO).
The code, which was unveiled yesterday (October 25), details five crime reduction measures that the BMRA and ACPO claim give clear guidelines on how metals recyclers can improve security and what they should do if their employees are suspicious of any criminal activity.
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Introducing digital recorded CCTV systems at entrances or weighbridges of recycling centres, with the images being retained for 28 days. Posters advertising the systems should be “clearly” displayed;
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Requesting identification from anyone disposing of metals that is not already personally known to the metals recycling centre, or has identification. The site should record the identification used, for example by using a driving licence number. Cash should not be paid to anyone who does not fulfil those requirements;
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Maintaining “accurate records”, as required by the Scrap Metal Dealers Act 1964, including ensuring names, addresses and vehicle registration number are accurate
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“Suspicious persons” should be reported to the relevant local police force;
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“Suspicious transactions” should also be reported to the relevant local police force.
The BMRA said the code would develop common guidance across local police forces and metals recycling, as well as allowing it work with police to increase their understanding of the issues that affect metals recycling companies.
The Association also committed to continue publishing metals theft updates to alert its members to specific materials that thieves might try to sell through the legitimate trade.
Ian Hetherington, director general of the BMRA, said: “Metals thefts affect a range of people, including metal recyclers, homeowners and businesses, and consistent and robust policing, along with attention to security procedures, are vital.
“This code of practice is a strong reflection of the BMRA and ACPO's commitment to tacking the problem and how the industry is supporting businesses to reduce the amount of incidents. I am confident it will deter thieves and would like to thank all metal recycling facilities for their co-operation in putting the guidelines into practice.”
His sentiments were echoed by ACPO's lead on conductive metal theft, Paul Crowther, who is also deputy chief constable of the British Transport Police, who described the code of practice as a “major first step forward” in the metals recycling industry's fight against thefts.
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