Top Tips to Prevent Construction Theft

With all the inevitable hustle and bustle of a construction site, it’s not uncommon for theft to go unnoticed until it’s too late. Potential thieves are always looking for easy targets and construction sites often fit the bill — with different workers and contractors coming and going, little to no surveillance and valuable equipment that’s easy to sell. And this type of theft isn’t easy to calculate, but can really hurt your bottom line.

However, thinking ahead and taking a few smart steps to amp up your security will help you scare away criminals. Here are some ways to safeguard your business and your crew while on the job site:

• Arrange for just-in-time delivery. And don’t have supplies arrive at the site early or on Fridays where they’ll go unused for days or over the weekend.
• Plan for storage areas on site and secure them using fences, lights and guards. Post no trespassing and warning signs too.
• Keep an inventory of equipment. The inventory should include photos, the product identification number and a die stamp with your company’s identification number. Periodically review and update the inventory.
• Consider participating in a neighborhood watch or good-neighbor program.
• Anchor and immobilize equipment. Equip mobile equipment with a disabling device for the ignition, an immobilization device for the transmission or both.
• Use a satellite tracking system, such as LoJack (Opens in a new tab), for high-dollar equipment.
• Join a crime prevention program or start your own. Offer a reward for information on site thefts or vandalism.
• Beef up your control of keys. Keep track of who has keys and where they’re kept.
• Do not leave padlocks open during the day. Thieves can easily replace your lock with one of theirs so they have the key to your trailer or gang box.
• Mark all of your tools and equipment. Consider color coding tools and lumber. Not many people will take a neon-orange hammer!
• Get to know the people you are working with. Become familiar with the other contractors and tell them if you’re changing personnel and ask them to do the same.

Take these steps every time you set up a new job site and protect your hard-earned business dream for years to come. Because by being smart, organized and diligent about your protection, thieves are much less likely to take a chance!