Refuse compactor

A refuse compactor comprising:

• (i) a storage chamber having an open top through which refuse is loaded and compacted refuse is unloaded,
• (ii) a lid pivotally mounted on the chamber and movable between an open position clear of the open top to allow refuse to be loaded into the chamber and compacted refuse to be unloaded from the chamber and a closed position in which the lid closes the open top of the chamber,
• (iii) a rotary compaction blade at or adjacent to the open top which is pivotally mounted on the chamber, the compaction blade being movable from a first position in which it is located clear of the open top and a second position beneath the lid when the lid is closed and a third position within the chamber remote from the open top, the movement of the compaction blade from its second position to its third position acting to compact the refuse in the chamber,
• (iv) means for pivoting the compaction blade from its second position to its third position,
• (v) interlock means operative to permit the movement of the compaction blade from its second position to its third position when and only when the lid is closed.