Abstract: A vertical trash compactor (10) comprises a dual ram assembly (18) for compacting trash which has been placed into an open top container (16) through a loading door (28). A primary ram unit (20) is pivotally mounted to a housing (12) for movement between a retracted loading position above the container (16) and a normal position adjacent to the top of the container (16). A secondary ram (22) unit is mounted to the primary ram unit (20) for pivotal rotation in a direction opposite the primary ram unit (20), between a retractive position relative to the primary ram unit (20) and an extended position within the container (16). A door lock (30) is also provided whereby the loading door (28) cannot be opened unless the primary ram unit (20) is in the retracted loading position.