Mitigating Tool and Equipment Theft On-Site
The construction industry in the UK has been facing an increasing challenge due to the rise of tool and equipment theft on-site. A recent study conducted by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) revealed that the annual cost of theft and vandalism in the has now surpassed 800m – with stolen items ranging from small tools and copper wiring to heavy machinery and valuable construction materials.
The costs of these thefts can be staggering for contractors within the sector who have to deal with the repercussions, seek solutions, and try to understand the most effective ways to mitigate the risk of on-site theft.
THE IMPACTS OF TOOL AND EQUIPMENT THEFT ON-SITE
The impact of one-off and continuous theft can be significant for contractors and projects of all sizes. Implications can range from financial losses, delays in projects, safety, and security breaches, as well as damage to reputations.
The financial loss of replacing equipment is just the start for construction contractors. With theft of tools and equipment also causing delays whilst replacement tools are sourced, and even potentially incurring contractual penalties.
The indirect costs can also be significant, with the possibility of increased insurance premiums, additional security to further secure your sites, and the potential negative impact on a contractor’s overall reputation within the industry.
FACTORS DRIVING THE RISE IN THEFT
There are several factors contributing to the rising levels of theft in construction, including:
rising demand and prices
The construction industry is experiencing a large surge in demand, leading to higher prices for construction materials and equipment. Due to this increase in value, construction sites are now seen as more attractive targets for thieves.
lack of security measures
Insufficient security measures, such as inadequate perimeters and fencing, lack of lighting, and limited security create opportunities for thieves to operate. This is especially true for construction sites since they are temporary, making it challenging to implement robust security measures.
MITIGATING TOOL AND EQUIPMENT THEFT ON-SITE
To help mitigate the rising problem of tool and equipment theft on-site, contractors can implement several preventative measures.
Preventing theft to begin with is still the most effective strategy for mitigating its impacts. Therefore, ensuring you have adequate security systems in place is crucial. This can consist of installing, repairing, or maintaining adequate fencing around your site’s perimeter, checking that the site is well lit with suitable lighting, operational CCTV, alarms and motion sensors, and displaying precautionary signage.
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On-site secure storage solutions are also an effective way to mitigate tool theft on site. Secure storage containers function as a physical deterrent against theft. By keeping high-value items locked away, you reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential theft. Together with 83% of respondents in a PCB survey leaving portable tools and equipment on-site overnight, opting for well-constructed and tamper-poof storage containers adds an additional layer of security. These containers are designed to resist tampering or forced entry, providing greater assurance that their contents remain protected.
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Thirdly, educating your workers about the importance of site security, theft protection, and reporting thefts is crucial. Providing training on theft prevention techniques equips your employees with knowledge of how to protect your tools and equipment. This could include procedures for securing equipment, identification of vulnerable areas, and implementing best practices for deterrence. Encouraging a culture of vigilance to actively monitor and report any suspicious behaviour or security concerns ensures that employees become an essential part of your security infrastructure.
summary
As the theft of tools and equipment becomes more prevalent in the construction industry, it is important for contractors to take proactive steps to safeguard valuable assets. Understanding the underlying factors fueling this trend and adopting comprehensive security measures enable contractors to mitigate risks, reduce financial losses, and uphold a secure work environment.
Here at THX, we offer a range of on-site security products available to hire with next-day delivery. From industry-leading site chests to fencing and barriers, we take care in ensuring that our customers have the right tools at their fingertips, no matter the task at hand.