Class Code 3066
Sheet Metal Products Mfg; Aluminum Ware Mfg; Coppersmithing
Class Code 3066 applies to manufacturers who fabricate sheet metal products, produce aluminum ware, and perform coppersmithing operations in California. The September 1, 2026 approved pure premium rate is $4.883 per $100 of payroll, which reflects expected claim costs for workers doing cutting, forming, welding, and finishing in a production shop.
What Class Code 3066 Covers
This classification covers shop-based manufacturing and finishing of metal goods made from sheet steel, stainless, aluminum and copper — including stamped parts, ductwork, flashing, gutters, cookware, decorative copperwork and small assemblies. Work includes cutting, shearing, bending (press brake), stamping, roll forming, punching, welding and brazing, grinding and finishing, fitting and light assembly in a production or light fabrication environment. It covers production-level tool operators, press operators, welders/brazers, finishers, and shop floor assemblers, but generally does not include field installation crews or heavy structural metal erection, which are classified elsewhere. Materials handling inside the shop (forklift, hoist, coil handling) and routine machine maintenance performed by shop staff also fall under this code when done in support of manufacturing operations.
Who It Applies To
- Sheet metal fabrication shops producing ductwork, flashing, and stamped parts
- Manufacturers of aluminum ware such as trays, pans, and formed household items
- Coppersmiths producing architectural, decorative or plumbing copper components
- Press operators, roll-forming and stamping machine operators
- Shop welders, brazers, grinders, finishers and assemblers
Common Job Duties
- Cutting and shearing coil or sheet stock and loading material on presses or roll formers
- Operating press brakes, stamping presses and punch presses to form parts
- Welding (MIG/TIG/arc), brazing and soldering copper, aluminum and steel components
- Grinding, deburring, polishing and applying surface finishes or coatings
- Fitting and assembling components, rivet or spot-welding assemblies
- Moving coils, finished racks and heavy parts with forklifts, hoists or carts
- Routine machine setup, tool changes and preventive maintenance
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $4.883 Rate
The pure premium rate of $4.883 per $100 of payroll reflects the insurer's estimate of expected claim costs per payroll dollar for this class. Carriers use the pure premium as the loss-cost base and then add expense loads, profit, state assessments, and any credits or debits to arrive at the final policy rate. Final premiums are also affected by your payroll accuracy, experience modification (loss history), individual claims management, and any safety or group discounts.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Employers must follow Cal/OSHA requirements for machine guarding, control of hazardous energy (lockout/tagout), welding/brazing safety, ventilation and respiratory protection, and hearing conservation when noise exposure exceeds limits. Hazard communication for metalworking fluids, fume sampling where welding occurs, PPE provision and employee training are mandatory; maintain written programs (e.g., injury prevention, PPE, respiratory protection) and training records to demonstrate compliance.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 3066
A PEO like Key HR can help shops lower workers' comp costs through targeted loss-control audits, on-site safety coaching for machine guarding and welding safety, and claims advocacy to return injured workers to modified duty faster. Key HR also centralizes regulatory paperwork, provides calibrated safety programs specific to metal fabrication, and leverages group purchasing and experience-mod management to reduce premium volatility.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Does Class Code 3066 apply to sheet metal installation crews who install ductwork on buildings?
No. Class Code 3066 is focused on manufacturing and shop-based production. Field installation and mechanical contracting work (duct hanging, rooftop installation) are normally classified under separate contractor codes. Confirm with your insurer or Key HR to ensure correct classification for mixed shop-and-field operations.
What practical steps reduce workers' comp claims and premiums in a sheet metal shop?
Prioritize machine guarding, robust lockout/tagout procedures, welding fume ventilation and respiratory protection, edge-handling training and cut-resistant gloves, hearing conservation, and a formal return-to-work/light-duty program. Accurate payroll reporting and prompt, well-documented claim reporting also reduce experience-mod impact.
How does my shop’s claims history affect the premium I ultimately pay?
Your experience modification (loss history) adjusts the base premium up or down based on past claims frequency and severity. Frequent or high-cost claims increase your modifier and premium, while effective loss control, rapid claims resolution and successful return-to-work programs help lower it over time.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 3066
- Classification
- Sheet Metal Products Mfg; Aluminum Ware Mfg; Coppersmithing
- Pure Premium Rate
- $4.883 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Ready to Simplify Workers' Comp for Class Code 3066?
Key HR provides California employers with pay-as-you-go workers' comp, HR compliance support, and payroll — all through one PEO partnership.