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Construction site theft is a growing problem, particularly as the sector battles with material shortages and spiralling costs. According to BFM Magazine, it is estimated that theft from construction sites or incidents of vandalism costs the industry £800m a year. Here’s a look at what is driving the crimewave, and what you can do to make your site more secure.
What are the biggest targets?
Theft of heavy plant machinery and equipment is common. Metal is the most frequently stolen material thanks to its high resale value, although thieves will target anything of value that can be removed from the site. Furthermore, attempted break ins or deliberate damage caused by vandalism adds to the potential cost and delays.
Identify the risks
Before deciding what security measures to implement, conduct a risk assessment of the whole site to identify potential vulnerabilities. Take an inventory of all the stock and equipment on the site, including its age, current condition and market value. Some materials may be a target if they are in short supply or have recently increased in price.
Is the site in a remote location? This will sometimes make it a target for criminal gangs who assume there is less chance of being disturbed, and it may require more robust deterrents and security measures. Prioritise those areas that require the most urgent attention and review your assessment on a regular basis.
Store valuable items securely
Make use of anti vandal and security units to store valuable tools and equipment. These portable cabins are reinforced with steel shutters and multiple point locking steel doors to resist break ins. They can be adapted to a range of different purposes, including storage, gatehouses, offices, or welfare facilities.
Secure the perimeter and monitor entry and exit points
A high mesh and steel frame perimeter fence will help to keep trespassers out, as well as providing screening to make it more difficult to see what materials and equipment are at the location. The fence should be fitted with multiple large signs that provide clear warnings about no unauthorised access to the site.
It is also good practice to install gatehouses at all entrance points that are staffed 24/7 by security personnel, so that everyone who wants to gain access to the site is logged and issued with an ID badge.
If it is not possible to have access points that are manned around the clock, consider installing access control systems such as biometric scanners or card readers, so that only authorised personnel can access the site.
Install CCTV and security lighting
Back up the perimeter and other strategic areas with CCTV cameras and motion sensor lighting to provide a further deterrent, or to supply evidence in the event of a criminal incident. The CCTV cameras are required by law to have signs clearly displaying their purpose.
It may also be necessary to augment the security systems with alarms that are directly connected to the authorities or a third party surveillance system.
Roll out security awareness training
Educate all staff and contractors on the importance of site security and ensure that they understand how to securely store valuable items at the end of the working day. Make sure that staff know how to report any suspicious activity and encourage them to be vigilant for intruders or unusual incidents as they go about their work.
Clearly mark and register valuable items
All items such as plant machinery and tools should be marked and registered to make them more easily traceable if they are stolen. This not only increases your chances of having your goods returned, but also deters criminal gangs as thefts become more risky or less profitable. Conduct regular inventories to keep track of everything on the site.
Consider installing immobilisation devices on plant machinery and vehicles.
Work with the local community
Liaise with neighbouring sites and the wider community to encourage them to report any suspicious activity. It may be possible to share the benefits of some of the security measures, such as CCTV and motion sensor lighting, which will encourage collaboration. You could also consider offering rewards for any useful information.
Understanding the psychology of vandalism
If vandalism is a persistent problem, it may be worth understanding what drives it, such as a lack of community or sense of pride in the area, or a lack of social or sporting spaces. These problems could be addressed through engaging with local authorities
For more information on 8 Steps To Deter Theft And Vandalism On Construction Sites talk to Cabinlocator Ltd