Workers' comp class code · Construction & Trades
Class code 5479 — Sheet Metal Work
Fabrication and installation of sheet metal ductwork, flashing, and trim.
This classification covers sheet metal workers who fabricate and install metal components such as flashing, trim, gutters, and architectural metal panels, outside of HVAC ductwork specifically. Work includes cutting and bending metal, either in a shop or on-site, and installing finished pieces on buildings. Crews often move between a fabrication shop and job sites throughout the week.
Payroll includes sheet metal fabricators, installers, and helpers who handle material and assist with lifting and positioning larger metal panels. Shop-based cutting and forming work is generally included alongside field installation as part of the same operation.
Cuts from sharp metal edges are a near-constant low-level hazard, while lifting and maneuvering large sheets and panels drives strain injuries. Installation work at height, such as flashing on rooflines or mounting architectural panels on building facades, adds fall exposure on top of the cutting and handling risks common to the trade.
What code 5479 typically includes
- Flashing, trim, and gutter fabrication and installation
- Architectural metal panel and cladding work
- Metal roofing components (non-HVAC)
- Shop cutting, bending, and forming of sheet metal
- On-site installation and fastening of finished pieces
Codes this one gets confused with
5538 — Sheet Metal HVAC Duct Work
Ductwork tied specifically to HVAC systems is rated separately from general architectural and building sheet metal work.
See code 55385551 — Roofing
A metal roofing system installed as part of a full roofing job is typically rated under roofing rather than general sheet metal work.
See code 55515462 — Glaziers
Both trades work on building exteriors, but glaziers handle glass while sheet metal workers handle metal panels, flashing, and trim.
See code 5462What this code means for your premium
General sheet metal work rates in the moderate range, similar to other fabrication-and-install trades, with the rate reflecting cutting and handling hazards more than height exposure.
Estimate your premiumClassification is not final until a carrier assigns it. Code numbers, wording and exceptions vary by state and rating bureau — several states run their own bureaus. This page is general reference written in our own words; your carrier's underwriter assigns the code based on your actual operations and payroll records.
Questions about code 5479
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