Building sites have been threatened by the rise in steel prices throughout 2021, not just because supply costs have gone up, but also because there have been more thefts at construction sites. Although there is still a high demand for steel, the effects of Brexit and COVID-19 are mostly to blame for the material’s decreased supply, which inevitably led to an increase in price.

The rise in scrap metal prices encourages thieves to break into building sites in search of valuable commodities. Since Covid-19, construction site crime has increased by 50%, according to the Construction Equipment Association (CEA). It is anticipated that these price hikes will continue until the last quarter of the year because they are not slowing down.

What can you do, then, to safeguard your building sites

Security personnel

Licensed security guards are the most effective theft prevention method when high value goods are held on a building site. Effective security can stop intrusions and discourage trespassing. These guards are not only there to deter trespassing, but if it does happen, they can respond quickly and effectively. Whether this relates to apprehending trespassers, giving evidence to the police, or using face intimidation on trespassers. 

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Protect the Border

Even though it is the initial step, placing a physical barrier around the edge of a building site does not effectively dissuade trespassers. For the location to be completely secure, additional security measures around the perimeter are needed. Fence or wall toppers or painting the barrier with anti-climb paint are further options to think about. Once a physical barrier has been established, it must also be watched over. In addition to hiring a security guard, cameras, motion-activated lighting, and a reliable alarm system can all be useful.

Material Security

Even while construction sites could appear to be secure from the outside, making stealing more difficult might dissuade thieves in additional ways. When precious items are hidden in a second, secure internal location, it makes it harder for anyone looking for them expressly to find them. Smaller compounds can help you focus more on security in this area by allowing you to install more lighting and cameras.

Access Management

A more technical solution to security measures for a building site is provided by access control. Entry ID cards or facial recognition are frequently used to grant controlled access to a facility; this is also possible at construction sites. Security guards can distinguish between those who are legitimate and those who might pose a threat to the location by making sure there is a process for everyone who is granted admission.

Additionally, clients can adopt the following risk mitigation steps to avoid theft and vandalism, reduce risk, and keep projects on schedule and within budget:

1. Make use of the right lighting

By removing hiding areas and increasing the danger of detection, well-lit work sites will aid in deterring criminal activities. Lighting that is activated by movement might be a very powerful deterrent.

2. Construct a fence

The job site, including storage spaces and trailers, should be surrounded by perimeter fencing. In addition to preventing unwanted access, fencing also serves to restrict the removal of property from the site in the event that unauthorized access is granted. Barbed wire or fencing that sets off an alert will therefore add an extra degree of security to the location.

3. Display signs

Post prominent no trespassing signs after the fencing has been installed to deter would-be intruders. 

4. Think about surveillance

Video surveillance, a professional security guard, or both may be used as surveillance methods at employment sites to prevent criminal activities. Having surveillance in place can aid in identification and recovery in the event of vandalism or theft. 

5. Protect your tools

The location and kind of equipment and material storage on the job site during off-peak hours should be planned in advance by the clients. Locking mechanisms and safe keys. To make it easier to find and retrieve any stolen equipment, contractors or owners of mobile equipment might also choose to place tracking systems on their apparatus.

6. Arrange deliveries in advance

It will be easier to prevent theft of unattended items if you are aware of when deliveries will be made in advance and schedule them for times when someone will be present to secure the parcels. Making preparations for deliveries will also lessen the possibility of someone entering the facility without authorization.

7. Invest in sufficient insurance protection

Builders risk and contractors equipment insurance are crucial risk-mitigation tools for any person or organization having an insurable interest in a building project. They can provide coverage for theft or vandalism of construction site materials, equipment, and tools. Builders risk and contractors equipment insurance coverage are not a replacement for the other steps on this list, but they can be a crucial safety net in the event that a loss still occurs after following the necessary security precautions.