Class Code 5192
Vending Or Coin-Operated Machines
Class Code 5192 applies to work involving vending or coin-operated machines — stocking, route servicing, collecting cash/coins, installation and onsite repair. California employers with vending routes, arcade machines, kiosks or coin-operated devices should know the exposures and controls. The September 1, 2026 approved pure premium for 5192 is $4.349 per $100 of payroll.
What Class Code 5192 Covers
This classification covers employees who stock, service, collect from, install, move or repair vending and coin-operated machines. Typical operations include route drivers who transport and restock snack and beverage machines, technicians who repair coin mechanisms, refrigeration or electrical components, and cash collectors who empty machines and reconcile coin boxes. It also includes service on arcade or amusement devices, photo booths and similar coin-operated kiosks when the primary work is maintenance, restocking or cash collection. Stationary retail attendants whose primary duties are operating a laundromat or arcade may require separate classification — classification depends on the actual duties performed and payroll allocation.
Who It Applies To
- Vending route drivers and stockers who load machines and restock product
- Cash/coin collectors who open machines, remove cash trays and reconcile money
- Field service technicians who repair mechanical, electrical and refrigeration parts
- Installers who set, anchor or relocate vending and coin-operated machines
- Arcade and kiosk maintenance crews who service coin mechanisms and electronics
Common Job Duties
- Driving a route and loading/unloading machines and product from service vehicles
- Lifting, sliding and positioning heavy vending machines or components
- Restocking snack, beverage and refrigerated product inside machines
- Opening coin boxes, counting and reconciling cash and coins
- Diagnosing and repairing mechanical, electrical or refrigeration faults
- Performing preventive maintenance, cleaning and sanitizing machine interiors
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $4.349 Rate
The approved pure premium of $4.349 per $100 of payroll is the loss-cost component reflecting expected claim costs for exposures in this class. Insurers use that pure premium as a base and then add expense loads, state assessments, and apply your employer experience modification and any credits or debits to produce the final premium. Payroll allocation accuracy, safety record (experience mod), and subclassification of specialized repairs or contractors will materially affect what a specific employer pays.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Cal/OSHA requires an effective Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and training tailored to these hazards, including manual handling, vehicle safety and electrical awareness. Employers must follow lockout/tagout (control of hazardous energy) procedures when servicing electrical or refrigeration components, comply with ladder and fall-prevention rules when working above ground level, and implement Heat Illness Prevention for outdoor route work. Regular documented training, equipment grounding, PPE and maintenance records help demonstrate compliance.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 5192
A PEO like Key HR can help vending employers by ensuring correct payroll classification, administering claims and return-to-work programs, and delivering California-specific safety templates and training (manual lifting, lockout/tagout, driver safety). Key HR also provides experience-mod monitoring, targeted risk assessments for routes and service technicians, and group purchasing power for safety equipment and workers' compensation programs to help lower overall costs.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do route drivers, stockers and repair technicians all fall under 5192?
Generally yes — employees whose primary duties are stocking, servicing, collecting cash from, installing or repairing vending and coin-operated machines are classified to 5192. However, if a worker's main job is a different trade (e.g., HVAC refrigeration contractor performing standalone refrigeration work) or a stationary laundromat attendant whose duties differ, a different class may apply. Accurate job descriptions and payroll allocation are essential.
What practical steps reduce workers' comp exposure for vending operations?
Implement two-person or mechanical lift protocols for machine moves, vehicle load securement and route safety training, lockout/tagout for repairs, electrical safety procedures, routine preventive maintenance to reduce emergency repairs, and prompt return-to-work programs. These actions lower claim frequency and severity and improve your experience modification.
If my technicians repair refrigeration or electrical systems, does that change the classification?
Routine repair and service of vending machine refrigeration or electrical components performed as part of vending operations usually remain in 5192. If you hire or allocate payroll to specialist contractors whose primary business is refrigeration, HVAC or electrical contracting, those wages may belong in specialty classifications. Maintain clear payroll records and discuss mixed duties with your PEO or insurer to avoid misclassification.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 5192
- Classification
- Vending Or Coin-Operated Machines
- Pure Premium Rate
- $4.349 / $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 5192?
Key HR provides California employers with pay-as-you-go workers' comp, HR compliance support, and payroll — all through one PEO partnership.