How do you secure a building site?

Methods Of Securing Construction Sites

Unfortunately, your construction site employees cannot stay on guard 24/7 to spot any potential crime on your construction site. However, there are several techniques that can be used to significantly reduce the likelihood of a crime and increase the chance of total asset recovery. Outlined below are some of the most important methods of securing a construction site.

Install Appropriate Fencing

Perimeter fencing should be used to enclose the entire job site, including all trailers and storage areas. In addition to preventing unauthorized parties from accessing the site, this type of fencing limits a person’s ability to remove property from the construction site. Fencing that uses barbed wire or triggers an alarm provides additional protection. Maintain a clear zone that is adjacent to the fencing wherever possible.

Secure The Equipment On The Property

Construction site supervisors should ensure there are appropriate places for equipment and materials to be stored on the job site during off-hours. Machinery should be locked, and the keys should be secured.

Key assets and property should be identified and tracked regularly using an inventory. For additional security, tracking devices can be installed on machinery to facilitate recovery of any equipment that is stolen. Hidden ignition disable switches provide extra protection from vehicle theft.

Install Lighting Around The Property

Adequate lighting deters criminal activity by reducing the number of potential hiding places on the site. Motion-activated lighting is a particularly effective deterrent; fully illuminate the perimeter fence, building entrances, site offices and high-value storage areas to deter theft, vandalism and trespass.

Post Signage Throughout The Property

After the fencing has been placed, signs should be posted that warn potential intruders not to trespass. Warning signs should also be installed indicating that surveillance cameras and security officers are being used. Hazardous areas should be identified with signage to prevent on-site accidents for workers and visitors.

Control Access Points

Control access to the site by setting up access points and monitoring them; use the most practical and minimum number of entry points. Site entry should be restricted to authorized personnel, and a record kept of everyone who enters and exits the property. Limit onsite vehicle access by providing off-site parking areas for visitors and employees.

Use Video Surveillance

A video monitoring system with advanced analytics can detect intrusions, theft, vandalism and fire and will send alerts to swiftly address any situation. Cameras should be placed in a manner that captures the entire perimeter of the job site as well as important interior locations.

These cameras should be monitored by a professional security monitoring service with a central station of service that can contact authorities if an intrusion is detected or suspected. Footage from surveillance cameras provides valuable assistance in identification and recovery if vandalism or theft occur.

Hire Construction Site Security

Hire licensed and bonded construction site security services to patrol the site around the clock. A visible security presence is a strong deterrent to thieves and vandals. Security officers should be placed at all entry points for personnel and vehicles, and their rounds can be recorded.

Performing A Construction Site Security Assessment

The security risks on a construction site vary according to the location and the type of work being carried out at the site. Conducting a security risk assessment allows site supervisors to create a solid plan that takes into account all of the potential risks from external threats as well as the project’s workforce. The following factors should be considered in the assessment:

The Type Of Project

The nature of the project and the value of the equipment and types of materials used are important factors to consider. Vertical projects, and those with hazardous chemicals have additional safety concerns.

The Location Of The Site

Urban sites and rural sites have different variations of safety concerns to address. The nature of neighboring properties should also be taken into account, including the crime rate of the neighborhood and the types of crimes involved.

Construction sites in areas of deteriorating socioeconomic conditions or unrest have higher risk levels than those located in more stable environments.

Public Support For The Project

Projects that are an inconvenience to the surrounding public and those that are perceived as detrimental to the neighborhood can be targets for vandalism and trespass. For more controversial sites, protesters may also be a concern.

Potential Threats

Theft of equipment, materials and tools is a major concern at construction sites, but the theft of fuel and intellectual property should not be overlooked. It is also important to consider vandalism and arson; in some locations, robbery of construction workers is also a concern. A thorough security plan must also address the potential for cyber attacks.