Short answer: yes, but only when they are commercial-grade and properly maintained. A cheap residential pedal bin will not last long on a busy sidewalk, at a transit stop, or in a park. A well-built public waste bin can, however, hold up for years.
Foot pedals are popular in urban settings for good reasons. They are hands-free, more hygienic, and easier for many people to use. They keep the lid closed, which helps contain odors and litter. But the pedal mechanism is also the weak point. Daily public use means hundreds of cycles, heavy stomping, kicking, rain, sun, road salt, and occasional vandalism. Thin pedals, weak springs, and exposed hinges fail fast.
What makes a difference is the specification. Look for heavy-gauge stainless steel, a reinforced hinge, sealed pivot points, corrosion-resistant coatings, and a sturdy pedal lever. A replaceable pedal assembly is a big plus. The bin also needs good lid return, drainage, a secure liner, and a base that does not tip easily. In high-abuse areas, a pedal bin may not be the best choice at all; open-top or sensor bins can sometimes be more practical.
So do they hold up? Good ones do, if they are matched to traffic levels and checked regularly. Tighten bolts, clear pivots, replace worn parts, and choose commercial trash cans with available spares. The honest answer is not “all pedal bins,” but “the right pedal bins can.”