Tips for Reducing Site Theft

For construction contractors any behavior that has an impact on the schedule is intolerable, and theft, which is the brunt of the problem, is becoming more and more frequent these days. The probability of recovering important tools and equipment once they are stolen is very low, and as a result, losses are often greater than on other construction sites. In fact, industry experts attribute a staggering $1 billion in losses to theft each year.

Common jobsite theft targets

Construction yards are used to store valuable tools, equipment and materials, but often the security of these large outdoor spaces isn't enough to prevent thieves from helping themselves.

Tools

Thieves steal tools more often than other equipment, with some studies finding that close to 40% of stolen goods are tools. This includes any type of handheld or power tool used during construction. Since tools are easy to hide, remove and resell, they make an easy target for thieves.

Heavy construction equipment

It's hard to believe someone could steal a backhoe or a bulldozer without being seen, but people steal heavy equipment nine times more often than they vandalize it. Because heavy equipment boasts such a high resale value, thieves are highly motivated to steal these items whenever possible.

Building materials

Lumber, copper, brass mill shapes and steel account for 11.3% of jobsite thefts. Construction materials revolve in popularity for thieves, depending on market demand and cost. Increasing materials prices drive these types of thefts, with more expensive materials seeing higher theft rates. It's been a big target for thieves looking to resell the materials and also for opportunist thieves sourcing material for their own personal projects.
 

Losses from theft

With today's skyrocketing energy prices and a variety of factors such as inflation, the price of building materials has risen by more than 35%. This means that they are not only easier targets for thieves but also more costly to steal. Often, however, the cost of theft goes far beyond this:

• Project delays due to lack of tools or materials and possible liquidated damages, etc.
• Additional expenses incurred in re-purchasing materials
• Dissatisfaction of the client with the progress of the project
• Increased insurance costs

So with the above conclusion we all realize the importance of site burglary prevention, so how do we implement it?

Effective anti-theft method

Implementation of an inventory management system

Keeping a detailed count and organizing an inventory of all materials and tools allows for effective inventory management and tracking. Sometimes theft doesn't just come from the outside, your workers can be the perpetrators as well. That's why detailed records are essential, and efficient management of your resources is one of the ways you can create a gap between you and your competitors.

Installation of temporary fencing

Enclosed fences can keep thieves from learning about your site, while also making it more difficult for them to get in and out.

Installation of Surveillance

In addition to physical defenses, installing surveillance provides a deterrent that can minimize risk. By installing surveillance at key entrances and exits of a construction site and at warehouses, you will be able to get a real-time view of the situation at these locations at all times. Clear pictures and videos also provide perfect evidence in the event of a theft, increasing the probability of financial recovery.

Construction-free monitoring program

Protecting your construction site is made easier with our reliable mobile surveillance trailers. It is capable of rapid deployment in just a few minutes, while requiring no power or network. No matter where you are, you are able to access it remotely and monitor your assets in real time.BIGLUX is a specialized provider of mobile surveillance solutions, and we have helped many construction contractors to achieve security management on their construction sites. Would you like to know more about our customer cases and product information? Contact us now!