diff --git a/code/modules/recycling/disposal.dm b/code/modules/recycling/disposal.dm
index 945c9744324..adb27fccc82 100644
--- a/code/modules/recycling/disposal.dm
+++ b/code/modules/recycling/disposal.dm
@@ -164,9 +164,9 @@
 	to_chat(user, "You [mode ? "unfasten": "fasten"] the screws around the power connection.")
 
 /obj/machinery/disposal/welder_act(mob/user, obj/item/I)
-	. = TRUE
 	if(mode != required_mode_to_deconstruct)
 		return
+	. = TRUE
 	if(contents.len > 0)
 		to_chat(user, "Eject the items first!")
 		return