Site theft leads to significant financial losses and delays in construction projects. Take these steps to prevent site theft.
1. Invest in security technology
- Make sure the cameras are clearly visible. This often already works preventively.
- Make a (digital) inventory of all your tools with photo and serial number. Download an inventory template from the Police Waasland-Noord website.
- Install motion sensors in conjunction with an alarm system. When unauthorized persons enter the yard, an alarm is triggered immediately.
- Install a GPS tracking system (such as Suivo) on expensive machinery and vehicles. This helps recover stolen property and deters thieves.
- Place security cameras at strategic points around the yard. Choose cameras with night vision and motion detection and link them to an alarm system.
2. Check fence and access
- Provide an access system for employees and visitors with badges or key cards. Keep a log of who enters and leaves the worksite.
- Make sure the yard is fully enclosed with a sturdy fence. Use high-quality locks and gates and check them regularly for damage.
3. Take care of your work materials
- Close all vehicles (construction equipment) tightly.
- Provide your work materials with quality labels with your company logo. This deters thieves.
- Secure large machinery and construction equipment with chains or locks. Place smaller tools in a secure safe or container.
- Store expensive tools, materials and machinery in locked containers or storage areas. Choose containers with anti-intrusion features.
- Make sure you have the necessary building materials delivered shortly before the final installation is scheduled. This way you reduce the time that thieves have a chance.
4. Collaborate with professionals
- Make sure you have comprehensive insurance that covers theft. Check the terms and make sure all your equipment is properly registered.
- Consider hiring a security company to guard the yard at night. This could be a human guard or a mobile security service.
5. Inform your employees
- Teach employees how to recognize and report suspicious activity. Create a culture where everyone is responsible for safety on the job site.
- Make sure everyone in the yard does not leave any valuables or tools behind.
- Encourage employees not to share information about the project or location on social media. This can attract thieves.
6. Improve lighting and visibility
- Provide adequate lighting in the yard, especially in the evening and at night. Motion-activated lights make it more difficult for intruders to remain unseen.
7. Use yard theft prevention signs
- Post warning signs at the entrance to the yard stating that the site is secured. This acts as a deterrent to potential thieves.
- Use demarcation ribbons.
Sources: Construction Union, Police
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Stiasteny, L. (2024, Nov. 26). Prevent yard theft thanks to these 7 steps. Apartment.be. Accessed on (date XX/XX/202X), from https://www.appartement.be/stappen-om-werfdiefstal-te-voorkomen/
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