Abstract: A refuse compactor having structure for preventing displacement of the compactor receptacle beyond a preselected permissible displacement during the compacting operation. The control includes a tilt switch for terminating operation of the compacting ram in the event of a preselected tilt movement of the receptacle during the compacting operation. The control further includes a safety switch preventing operation of the ram when the receptacle is displaced beyond a preselected distance from the compacting position. The displacement limiting structure disclosed herein is carried by the ram so as to be operative during the compacting operation to prevent a movement of the receptacle substantially beyond that effecting an opening of the tilt switch. The ram may be provided with a wiper which may form a portion of the displacement limiting structure.