How to Secure a Construction Site
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With all the expensive equipment, tools and materials left unattended after employees leave, construction sites present attractive targets for thieves, vandals, and exhibitionists.
According to a recent Security Outlook report, thefts are most frequent between November and March; materials such as aluminium pipes are also frequently stolen from unattended sites.
To deter vandalism and theft, keep projects on time and within budget, site managers can take these six risk reduction measures:
1. Use proper lighting.
Well-lit construction sites will help discourage criminal activity by eliminating hiding places and increasing the probability of discovery. Motion-activated lighting could be a very effective deterrent.
2. Install fencing.
Perimeter fencing should enclose the work website, such as storage areas and trailers. Fencing has two tasks: first, to prevent unauthorized access to the site and second, if someone gains unauthorized access, restrict their ability to remove property from the site.
To this end, barbed wire or fencing that activates an alarm will add a layer of security to site safety.
3. Post signage.
After fencing is installed, post “no trespassing” signs as warnings for prospective intruders.
4. Consider surveillance.
Surveillance at construction sites may include video surveillance, a private security guard, or both. Most people who break into building sites to climb cranes or perform other exhilarating activities do not want to do damage. By having security officers patrolling the place, they function as a significant deterrent to many intruders.
5. Lock supplies.
Site managers should lock and store equipment during off-hours at the worksite: lock machines and secure the keys. Contractors or mobile equipment owners might also need to install monitoring devices on tools to track their location and recover stolen equipment.
6. Plan deliveries beforehand.
“Phishing” is a term that refers to when a digital hacker poses as a legitimate source to trick the user into giving entry to the hacker.
The same thing could happen in a construction site should a thief disguise as a delivery person. Planning deliveries with a set time assists in preventing theft via unauthorized access.