How to prevent theft on construction sites

What draws would-be thieves?

To reduce the risk of theft, we need to start by understanding what’s attracting thieves to your sites. They tend to target specific types of equipment and materials, including:

• Portable electric tools
• Generators
• Air compressors
• Scaffolding
• Precious metals used in construction
• Construction material
• Doors and windows
• Plumbing and electricity equipment

There are even well-organized networks that specialize in stealing commercial vehicles. It’s a very profitable activity.

What annoys thieves

It’s true that thieves are clever. But don’t panic. There are plenty of things you can do to deter them.

Create havoc

So would-be thieves are helping themselves to your stuff? Complicate their lives!

Use anti-theft mechanisms

• Install scrambling systems, GPS tracking and surveillance equipment to protect what’s yours. These devices deter thieves and help you quickly locate stolen equipment. 
• Bolt or weld in a plate over your vehicles’ catalytic converters. This way, they become extremely difficult, even impossible, to steal.

Mark your equipment

Engrave permanent and unique codes on your tools and equipment, such as:

• Serial numbers
• Paint markings

Once you’ve put your personal stamp on the objects, they become harder to resell. You’d also have a better shot at recovering them.

Store material securely

• Be sure to store costly material in a secure location, such as a locked warehouse. Not possible? Install fences and gates to limit access to your sites.
• Install cameras that cover the entire site. Put up clearly visible signs announcing their presence. Leave no doubt about your intentions!

Increase security

There are many ways to boost security on your sites. And taking action is essential for reducing the risk of theft:

Instill a culture based on security

• Raise awareness among your staff and sub-contractors about the importance of security.
• Organize anti-theft training sessions on a regular basis.
• Encourage them to report any suspicious activity.

Control access points

Set up an access control system on site. Use ID tags for workers and sub-contractors. You’ll thereby limit access to the sites to authorized personnel only.

Upgrade the lighting

Make sure the work areas are brightly lit at night. This deters thieves and makes it easier to monitor the site.

Get security agents

Hire security agents to regularly patrol your sites. Their presence is a major deterrent. They can also quickly spot any suspicious activity.

Work with the police  

Build a relationship with the local police. Notify them of any theft or suspicious activity and ask them to intervene, if necessary.

Two more little things

So we gave you a bunch of helpful tips. Now, these strategies and recommendations have to be implemented in your company for them to make an impact. It’s essential. Also:

Frequently monitor the effectiveness of your security measures

Perform regular inspections to make sure the anti-theft equipment is working properly, that your material is securely stored and the access points are well controlled.

Stay up-to-date with modern security technology

Thieves are constantly innovating. Stay a step ahead by keeping up with the latest security technology. You’ll have to integrate these measures sooner or later.

In short, be proactive. With our tips and strategies, you’ll undoubtedly reduce the number of thefts on your sites. They will also help you to avoid making commercial insurance claims. As to your foreman, he’ll be able to stop thinking about thieves and focus on what matters most, his work.