Site managers continue to worry about construction equipment theft. 92% report that they have been affected by theft weekly, monthly, or annually.
The theft of equipment is a low-risk but lucrative business for would-be thieves. This is especially true in areas where security measures are weak, and the recovery rates are low at 9%.
It is crucial to understand the risks and how you can prevent them. The construction industry loses 400 million dollars each year to theft and other crimes on average.
Three of the most dangerous items that can put the construction sites’ security at risk are discussed, and the steps you can take to prevent theft.
1. Small Tools
Small tools like saws and hammers are often left on construction sites, making them easy targets for thieves and site workers. It is easier to find missing items with smaller items. Although each item may be inexpensive and easy to replace, it can add up over time.
2. Power Tools
Research shows that power tools are construction sites’ most commonly stolen items. It is not surprising that power tools are so valuable. Many people will buy them second-hand and avoid asking important questions like where they came from or why they are selling for such a low price.
3. Plant Machinery
It is expensive to resell machinery on construction sites. However, heavy machinery like bulldozers is more difficult to transport, so the thieves will not steal them. They are still a small part of site thefts, so it is important to secure your equipment.
How To Prevent Theft From Construction Sites
Register to The Equipment Register. You can record all details about your equipment and plants on the database. And you can track items and return them to you if they go missing.
You can hire licensed security guards to monitor the site during non-business hours. The presence of manned guards can be a deterrent. They can verify visitors or employees and also restrict vehicle access.
Allow only authorized staff, visitors, and suppliers to enter the site. Modern access control systems can be a great way to block unauthorized access.
Perform regular background checks of employees. This includes issuing smart CSCS cards to workers on site.
- Install fuel tank alarms to prevent fuel theft.
- Invest in fencing and lighting systems of high quality.
- You should secure the tools that are in the stores.
- Every tool should have identification marks to make them easy to recognize in case of theft.
- It is important to tag and register tools and machinery with the Construction Equipment Security and Registration Scheme.
- If you leave keys behind on machinery or vehicles, remove them and install immobilizing equipment to protect yourself from theft.
- Immediately report any suspicious behavior. Also, immediately report any theft of equipment. This will protect you during insurance claims and increase your chances of getting equipment back to you.
- You should train all staff on-site properly to store items securely, correctly mark them and properly label them. How to report a stolen item and who to contact.
- Install site-wide security systems on your construction sites, such as wireless video detection and CCTV. A professional security contractor should only install these.
- Ensure all security systems, lighting and perimeter fencing are up-to-date.
Apart from devices, you can also hire a security company to ensure the security of your construction site as well as of construction equipment.
