Why Your Construction Site is a Target for Criminals

While many people don't think of construction sites as hotbeds for crime, site operators understand that their properties are at high risk for criminal activity. Theft at construction sites costs companies money and time. High priced equipment, tools and materials make it hard for criminals to ignore. And, without after-hours security, construction sites are easy targets for those who want to steal valuable items.

If you operate a construction site anywhere in the country, you should not ignore your after-hours security needs. By understanding your greatest security threats, you can begin to develop a robust security plan that could save you millions of dollars and keep your project on schedule.

Is your construction site a target?

There are some key reasons why criminals tend to target construction sites. Consider the following to identify if your site is at high-risk for theft or vandalism.

There is valuable construction material on site. 

Construction sites are loaded with high-priced equipment and material that can be used or resold by criminals. Many of these items are kept out in the open, and therefore provide easy access to those who wish to perpetrate a theft.

In addition to the construction materials, sites are home to pricey equipment that can be resold or parted-out for a quick buck. Those who wish to wreak havoc may target large pieces of equipment to vandalize. 

The site contains a high volume of materials. 

Large construction sites including massive apartment communities, shopping centers or other large venues often contain high volumes of materials such as bricks, piping and tiles. With such a robust supply, it can be difficult for site operators and those who work there to identify if a theft has occurred. It can be challenging to track materials in a timely manner. Even if you identify that a theft has occurred, it is typically far after the fact. 

The site is easily accessible. 

Expansive construction sites may have a number of entrances and exits. There are also frequently many contractors, workers and property managers coming in and out of the site throughout the day. It can be challenging to check credentials for all visitors and monitor access at all entry points. 

You experience lapses in security. 

Once the work day is done, the property and all the materials within it are unmonitored, leaving them vulnerable to becoming targets of theft. Especially overnight, thieves can take advantage of the darkness and lack of security to perpetrate their crimes. Without onsite security guards, your property is at an even higher risk of becoming a target.

Safeguard Against Construction Site Theft

Large construction sites require a great deal of planning, and involve high value materials and equipment that could cost operators millions of dollars if compromised. Construction site operators must take the security of their property seriously by hiring onsite security guards from a reputable security guard company. 

A safe site is a productive site. By choosing an experienced security company to protect your property, you can ensure that the project runs smoothly and all of those on site feel safe and secure.

Construction site security guards can offer a variety of services to protect the site as well as the equipment and materials inside of it. Some of the primary services provided include:

Consulting with site operators

A reputable security guard company will work with you to identify your greatest threats and develop a plan that meets your needs. Doing this work up front will not only give you peace of mind as a construction site operator, but it will help you keep your costs down.

Managing access points

As we mentioned earlier, construction sites may have a variety of access points on site. Staffing these entrances with professional security guards can ensure that only credentialed visitors are allowed on site. Security guards can also monitor to ensure that materials are not leaving the property without authorization.

Overnight security patrols

Construction sites can become higher targets overnight. By stationing live security patrols throughout the property, you provide a visible deterrence to thieves and other criminals. Highly trained security guards understand what to look for and can identify suspicious behavior. With quick thinking and training, security guards know what to do in the event of a crime or other emergency on site. Their fast-thinking can help save you time, expense and liability.

Construction Site Security from Off Duty Officers

Construction sites are vulnerable and must be protected by a team of professional security guards. If you own or operate a construction site, call Off Duty Officers today to consult with one of our security specialists. Our team understands the unique vulnerabilities of construction sites and can help you identify the amount of security you need to protect your assets.