With the surging rates of theft and vandalism impacting building projects across the country, implementing effective construction site security is essential to ensuring the success of your projects – and the safety of your workers. Here’s how to get started.

Why is Construction Site Security Essential?

High quality construction security services are essential for many reasons. Not only do they protect assets such as materials and machinery, but they also ensure worker safety, prevent delays, and help construction companies to comply with regulations. They are the oil that keeps the machine running, and help to minimise any threats to project completion.

Understanding the Risks

Here are some of the risks associated with failing to properly secure your construction site.

• Crime and theft – rising crime rates across construction sites mean that 89% of tradespeople have been the victim of – or know someone who has been the victim of – theft. Stolen machinery, tools or materials can lead to major financial loss and project delays.
• Trespassing – whether in the name of vandalism and theft or by accident, trespassers can cause property damage, delay timelines, and even pose liability issues to the construction company.
• Reputational/legal damage – not being able to properly secure your construction site might damage relations with clients both present and future. Not only this, but failing to comply with local safety and security measures can result in hefty fines and penalties.
• Harm to workers – keeping your site secure and well-patrolled helps to prevent harm to workers by enforcing safety protocols, and providing a designated emergency response force.

The Impact of Effective Security Measures

Employing the right security measures can improve every aspect of your project. Workers will feel more secure; you will feel more able to invest in expensive assets knowing they are protected; and your business’ reputation will be bolstered as a result.

What Makes a Construction Site Secure?

A secure construction site should be well-lit and securely fenced, with monitored access points and regular security audits. After a thorough risk assessment, security measures can be put in place and tailored to each site’s specific needs and vulnerabilities.

The Role of Security Personnel and Site Guards

The personnel supplied by construction site security companies are key to enforcing security measures. They will be needed to control any access points, patrol the site, and respond to any emergencies such as accidents or perimeter breaches. A visible security presence can often be the deterrent needed to keep any would-be criminals away. It’s important that these guards are trained to the appropriate level for the kinds of incidents they might encounter, and are confident in action as well as competent on paper.

Technological Innovations in Construction Security

Here are some of the recent advances in technology have been being used to help enhance construction site security:

• GPS tracking for equipment that is susceptible to theft.
• Remotely controlled drone surveillance for larger sites.
• Biometric security measures at access points, making sure that only authorised personnel can come and go.

Choosing the Right Security Service

When looking at potential construction site security companies, you need to consider the specific needs of your site and industry.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Security Service

• Does this company have experience of projects similar to yours?
• Does this company have a proven track record of excellence?
• Do this company’s security personnel have the qualifications you require them to have?
• Are they willing to tailor their approach to your needs?
• Do they make you feel confident that your site will be well-protected?

Why Choose All Time Security?

We understand that improper site security can have expensive consequences. As well as protecting your interests, we want to protect the standards we uphold and provide the best service possible to all customers. This is why our staff are rigorously vetted, extensively trained, and supported by resources such as our 24/7 control room and high-quality equipment. Reach out for a quote for our flexible, comprehensive services.

 

Building sites are places with constant movement. With people coming and going at all times, keeping an eye on all the action on-site tends to get challenging. Plus, building sites are always the target of vandalism, making managing the area even more difficult. 

Having a Construction Security Plan (CSP) is essential in dealing with the constant threats from trespassers and criminals. Measures like fencing, having building site security guards at access points, installing CCTV remote monitoring, and other solutions are a must.

Keep reading to learn how to craft a CSP for utmost safety and security.

What Does a Construction Security Plan Include?

The content of the CSP largely depends on the location, size and purpose of the premises. For that reason, every CSP varies from the other. 

However, all CSPs include some basic information, such as:

• Information on the site location, project description, start and completion dates, and names of site owners and security manager
• Persons in charge of working with police
• Description of site security measures (guards, cameras, fencing, etc.)
• A list of all workers allowed on site. 

What to Consider When Preparing a CSP

Creating security plans is a demanding but necessary job that needs to include as many details as possible. A well-prepared and well-thought-out plan will help you run the site efficiently and smoothly. 

Here are some tips to remember when crafting a CSP:

Secure the Building Site Perimeter

It is simply impossible to be everywhere at the same time while keeping the whole perimeter secure. Install a perimeter fence to set clear boundaries, allowing you to store and keep all valuable tools, equipment, and supplies away from prying eyes. 

Hire the Best Manager

A well-developed CSP is worth nothing if the person managing and enforcing it is not well-trained. A Site Security Manager should have a solid background in the field, maintain good team communication and coordination, and be a great leader overall.

The manager’s job will include:

• Security inspections
• Identifying possible violations of the CSP
• Communicating the said violations to the Accrediting Official.

Such heavy-duty management entails a person in charge that is highly trained, knows all the industry needs and secrets, and can be relied upon to resolve any conflict.

Hire Trained Security Guards

You can only have up-to-par site security if you hire security guards to check the building site. They should be highly-trained professionals who can deal with trespassers, vandals, and thieves. Regular night security patrols will prevent unauthorised entrance to the premises. 

Assigning security guards at the access point will facilitate who enters and exits the site. They are also trained to watch the surveillance cameras and alert you about any on-site problems. 

Install a Surveillance System

Installing a surveillance system allows for 24/7 monitoring of the site. Detecting unauthorised entrance by intruders becomes a breeze, allowing for an immediate reaction. Any illegal activities will be caught on camera, and the footage will help clear the air later. 

Install Lights

Dark and unlit corners welcome vandals and thieves to building sites, granting them easy access to expensive machinery, equipment, and materials. Protecting a building site at night is hard, so installing bright lights will be helpful. 

Lighting the site well at night makes it less attractive for trespassers. It also helps guards who are doing security patrols to have better visibility. A well-lit construction area will give security cameras a clear shot of any possible incident. 

Don’t Over-secure the Building Site

Having more security doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better for the site. When creating the CSP, consider what you truly need to secure the area.

More security means more money, which can drain your budget. Plan the size of the security team wisely and only spend on necessities. 

Do an In-depth Risk and Security Analysis

When preparing the CSP, you should thoroughly analyse the security options and possibilities. Take a closer look at the risk assessment and include site control measures like identity verification, vehicle inspections, physical security barriers, and random searches. 

Create Smart Delivery Schedules

Material lying around the site is tempting for thieves and takes up too much space on-site. Having a carefully-planned delivery schedule will ensure you only have items and tools delivered when you need them without leaving them out in the open for days. 

Besides increasing the possibility of being stolen, leaving materials in the open creates a breeding ground for damages from bumping into them or dropping something on the items. Materials may also be damaged when left out in bad weather conditions. 

Don’t Burden the CSP 

The purpose of the Construction Security Plan is to include information on how to protect and secure the building site, meaning you have to implement security measures before and during construction. 

Don’t overload the CSP with documents and details that are not useful for these phases of the project. It will only confuse the staff and create unnecessary work for the Site Security Manager. Keep things as simple as possible.

Provide Detailed Information

Everyone working on-site must be up to speed to achieve a fully-functioning building site project. Things will turn hectic as the project progresses, and it’s better to address everything sooner than later before it’s too late to fix some mistakes. 

So, once the Accrediting Official approves the CSP, everyone involved in the process must know their duties – from day-to-day tasks to document handling and restrictions. Anyone that fails to comply with their assigned tasks will face the consequences.

Partner with All Time Security for Professional Building Site Security

When it comes to building site security, you’ll want to partner with experienced and highly skilled professionals – such as our team at All Time Security.

We offer high-level building site security and possess a deep understanding of all security-related products and technologies. Our highly-trained team will ensure your project is always running smoothly and nothing goes unnoticed.

Safeguarding building sites is what we do best. Contact us today, and place the security of your building site in only the most capable hands.

Public areas undergoing construction may be where danger can jump out from any corner. Because of their easy accessibility, they can present a risk to the public and intruders and be subject to theft and vandalism. 

Many businesses have reported increased theft and vandalism incidents on the construction site and to different types of machinery. This, in turn, creates financial losses for the construction companies, and it presents potential danger from injuries for all parties. 

Taking precautions and implementing effective construction site security measures is a prerequisite. It will give construction companies peace of mind regarding reducing property damage and increasing public safety. 

Setting up the Right Security Systems

There are several ways to ensure maximum building site security and safety. Construction sites are places with an all-day continuous movement of people and vehicles entering and leaving the construction site premises.

Every site is unique and has different requirements; hence the approach to its security measures will differ. Implementing security measures requires a risk assessment to pinpoint potential threats, weak spots, risks, and other relevant issues. 

After performing the risk assessment, it is essential to make a plan. What might work for one site does not necessarily mean it will work for another. Therefore, preparing and implementing the proper security and safety plan is essential. 

Another crucial thing is ensuring everyone understands and is informed about the plan and the security procedures. Ensure the plan is posted in a visible place and that employees know they must report potential security threats or incidents.

Protecting the Perimeter

Protecting the location perimeter is the first thing in building site security and safety. Putting up a solid fence or even a wall around is a way of setting the boundaries and creating a barrier to keep intruders off the premises. 

Choose a solid welded mesh fence that will be difficult to climb, and have only one entry and exit point. This will facilitate the monitoring of who enters and exits the premises. You can install a site access control system. Most sites use Biometric turnstiles or AccessBlock systems at gates to control the access of everyone on site. 

Hire Trained Security Guards

Hiring trained and professional security guards can be of great help. Many might think security guards will not be necessary with all the available technology, but that’s the wrong approach. They are an excellent defence line against any potential threat or danger of unauthorised intruders on the site. 

Make sure to hire security guards that are licensed professionals with extensive experience. All must be vetted to ensure they are trustworthy and will show utmost performance. 

Security guards can also be accompanied by security dogs, who have proven to be a great asset in safekeeping construction site security. Of course, these cannot be just any canines from the street but instead highly trained dogs that will work with the guards. 

Quality CCTV Systems

Installing an up-to-date quality CCTV system is another way to ensure the security and safety of a construction site. Construction sites differ; hence an analysis of the site and the surveillance needs will be required. 

Guards can cover only so much area during their check rounds, but cameras can also be placed in specific and hard-to-reach places. When installing the cameras, be wary of blind spots and adjust the camera spots accordingly. 

Secure and Safe Storage

Most of the theft cases reported are those of expensive tools and equipment. Construction sites are filled with materials and equipment of high value that must be kept out of plain sight. Create a special secure storage space that will be under constant surveillance. 

The storage area should be securely locked, discouraging potential intruders from attempting to enter the premises. A policy must exist that all equipment no longer in use must be returned to storage for safe keeping. If this equipment cannot be moved, it must be anchored to the ground with chains. 

Security Lighting

There is a reason why building sites are always kept lit. Intruders tend to sneak into dark places and steal or vandalise a place, which will not be the case if there is light everywhere. Careful planning of lighting positions is vital for it to be effective. Don’t just randomly pick spots to place lights. 

Choose bright white lights, like LED lights, which are an excellent option for easily identifying objects and people. You can combine them with motion sensors and security alarms to save energy. Any time someone enters the site, the light and the alarm will alert guards that there is an intruder. 

A well-lit site is also essential for the safety and well-being of all the employees moving around the site. A lot of the construction work may be done during the night if there are extremely high temperatures or to reduce disruptions that may occur during the day, 

Adapting to Changes

With progress comes change, and building sites change frequently. As the projects progress, the landscape of the site changes, and there is a possibility for the creation of blind spots.

It is wise to review surveillance camera positioning more often and make the necessary adjustments. Move cameras to new positions, adjust view angles or add new ones if necessary. Just be sure that the whole premises have been covered. 

Choosing the Right Expert for the Job

Preparing and implementing a security plan may seem simple, but it requires professionals to assess the situation and provide the right solutions. Security professionals have the experience and knowledge to provide expert advice and offer the best solutions for your site. 

Putting a price on the security of your business can only bring disappointment and loss. Let our team at All Time Security offer the best construction and building site security services in the UK. We understand building site requirements and can provide professional planning and installation of high-quality security systems.

If you are looking for reliable and trustworthy security and surveillance provider, you have come to the right place!

Construction site theft is a major problem in the UK, with an estimated £800 million worth of construction equipment and materials stolen each year. Thieves often target construction sites due to the high value of the equipment and materials on-site and the lack of security.

All Time Security, UK’s leading security service provider, offers these helpful tips to keep construction sites safe and secure.

Install CCTV Cameras and Alarm Systems

One of the most effective ways to deter thieves is to install CCTV cameras and alarm systems. Burglars will be less likely to target a well-protected site.

Make sure the CCTV cameras are visible and that the alarm system is activated correctly. Consider installing cameras in all site areas, especially near entrances, exits, and construction equipment storage areas.

Should a theft occur, the footage from the cameras will be invaluable in identifying the perpetrators. Likewise, alarm systems alert authorities when a break-in occurs.

Hire Security Guards

Security guards can patrol the site and act as a deterrent to potential burglary. They can scout the area 24/7 to ensure that no suspicious activities occur.

In addition, security guards provide a rapid response in case of an incident. Ensure that security guards are properly trained and have the necessary equipment to do their job, including radios, batons, and pepper spray.

Conduct Regular Security Audits

It’s important to regularly check the security measures to ensure that they are up to date and effective. Conducting regular security audits will help identify any weaknesses in the system to be addressed immediately.

Here are a few things to consider when conducting a security audit:

• Hire an external security company to assess the site’s security
• Check that all doors and windows are properly secured
• Ensure that all security cameras are working properly
• Make sure that the alarm system is up to date
• Check that all entry and exit points are properly guarded

Install Proper Lighting

Poor lighting is one of the main reasons construction sites are often targeted by thieves. They can operate more easily in darkness, making it easier to go undetected.

Install proper lighting around the site’s perimeter and all areas where construction equipment is stored. Motion-sensor lights are a smart choice as they will detect any movement and deter potential thieves.

In addition, proper lighting can also help improve safety on-site as it makes it easier for workers to see what they are doing.

Erect Security Fencing

Erecting a perimeter fence around the construction site can help prevent unwanted visitors from entering the premises. The fence should be high enough to prevent thieves from climbing over and sturdy enough so it cannot be cut through easily with bolt cutters.

Ensure there are no gaps or holes in the fence, as thieves can use these to access the site. In addition, the wall should be well-lit so that it can be easily seen at night.

Consider installing fences that are difficult to scale, such as chain-link or welded mesh. They should also be at least six feet tall to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Secure Valuables

All valuable items on-site should be locked away in a secure area. This includes construction equipment, tools, and materials. If possible, store items in a locked shed or container when not in use.

It’s also important to keep track of all keys and passcodes for the site’s security system, as well as any locks on storage containers.

Install Gates and Barriers

Gates and barriers help control access to the construction site and prevent unauthorised vehicles from entering. The gates should be made of sturdy steel or iron and should be fitted with locks.

For barriers, consider installing bollards around the perimeter of the site. These can be used to block vehicles from entering areas where they are not supposed to go.

Finally, ensure that the gates and barriers are well-lit for easy monitoring at night.

Time Deliveries Wisely

Construction sites are often targeted by thieves who steal delivery vehicles and materials.

To avoid this, it’s essential to time deliveries wisely. Ensure that there is someone on-site to receive the delivery and that all materials are properly stored away so they cannot be seen from the street. It’s also a good idea to have the delivery driver wait until someone is available to unload the materials.

Put Up Signages

Consider putting up signs that warn potential thieves of the consequences of trespassing or stealing on the construction site. The signs should be large and visible, and they should be placed in strategic locations around the perimeter of the site.

You can also include a phone number on the sign so that people can report any suspicious activity.

Hire a Security Assessor

If you’re not sure how to improve security on your construction site, consider hiring a professional security consultant.

A security consultant will be able to assess the site and identify any security risks. They will also be able to provide recommendations on how to improve security.

Make sure to hire a reputable and experienced security consultant who has experience working with construction sites.

Get 24/7 Security Services From UK’s Best

Buildings under construction are often easy targets for thieves looking to score some quick cash. When it comes to security, you can never be too careful, so it’s best to consider getting 24/7 security services from a reputable company.

All Time Security is an SIA-approved contractor providing affordable yet effective security solutions to businesses and homeowners in the UK. We have a team of highly trained security guards who patrol the site and monitor activity day and night. Plus, our security services are fully customizable to meet your specific needs.

A few of the services we offer include manned guarding, locking/unlocking premises, key holding, concierge security and service alarm response, security patrols and remote monitoring. For more information, please contact us today. We would be happy to discuss your options and provide a free quote.

Securing construction sites during the lock-down

Lock-down during the Covid19 Coronavirus pandemic has meant that many business and construction sites have had to cease work. Although this has had a negative impact on the operation and on deadlines for projects, leaving construction sites mid-work can cause an array of problems.

Among the many issues that can occur from leaving construction sites mid work is the risk of newly installed pipes bursting. Pipes bursting is not uncommon but usually, the risk is minimised because there are people present on site who are able to identify the problems before they cause serious damage but in the lock-down where people are not permitted to go on-site, the risk amplifies.

Other important factors to consider is that sites often have very expensive materials and machinery left on site. This is a great opportunity for thieves to enter the site and steal expensive materials and expensive equipment, tools and machinery. The materials alone can be worth in the high thousands and that combined with thousands in equipment, tools and machinery can mean enormous financial losses for businesses and construction workers.  

What can be done to reduce the risk?

We have identified that there is a huge risk in construction worksites being left mid-operation and here are a few ways to help reduce the risk:

Lockdown the site. This although sounds obvious, is not always easy and in some cases not even possible. Some sites are in the open had had several unlockable entry points. So the key here is to secure it as best as possible.

Install temporary gates and doors. Although it seems like effort but the more difficult to get entry the better the chances of keeping trespassers out.

Security signage. Visual signage is always a good way to highlight that trespassers will be prosecuted. The warning works well as a mild deterrant.

Install CCTV. CCTV is a great deterrent as most thieves and vandals are worried about being seen. CCTV footage can also be used in cases of prosecution.

Hiring a security services provider. Security service providers such as All Time Security are SIA approved contractors and specialise in securing construction sites. A reputable security service provider will deploy highly trained and experienced construction site security guards to secure the premises to ensure it doesn’t fall victim to burglars, arsonists and vandals.

A professional security services provider can also assist with CCTV and security signage.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All Time Security takes its role in the security sector seriously and understands the risks that come with leaving your property unattended.

All construction sites should be monitored at all times to ensure that all work is undertaken smoothly and professionally. Leaving your site vacant leaves you open to a plethora of threats that can cease construction and bring an entire project to its knees.

Equipment theft

The tools required for construction work are very valuable. Leaving your site unattended means that your work tools are open for thieves to take. This not only delays construction significantly but could also cost your company dearly if you’re the one who supplied your workers with the tools.

Tool theft hinders both huge corporations and small sole traders on a daily basis. A thief wouldn’t need much time on the site to bring a halt to the project. As reported by PHAM News, power tools are among the items most frequently stolen from construction sites, but even small hand tools can cost a fortune to replace.

Onsite security services can ensure that any theft attempts are prevented and provide comprehensive monitoring that will deter future theft attempts.

Project sabotage

Sometimes, a person or group of people will oppose the construction of a building. Whether they want to make a statement against the company you’re representing or an anarchist wants to bring the structure down, sabotage could not only delay your project and take a toll on your finances, but also put your workers in mortal danger.

Even if you think you’re safe and don’t have any enemies, you and your workforce could still be subject to a random act of deadly sabotage from a radical. Without the proper supervision of a construction site, someone could slip through and plant a bomb or cause serious harm to a load-bearing portion of the building.

With a well-trained construction site guard, you can keep protestors or extremists from infiltrating the premises. Door supervision can prevent unauthorised access to the interior of a construction and provide your workers with a safe area in which to work.

Local wildlife may invade

Sometimes, it’s not a person posing a threat to your project, as animals can find their way onto construction sites and disrupt workers.

Invading wildlife is harder to get rid of because they won’t understand the consequences of invading a construction site and you can’t reason with them. What’s more, the animal could be dangerous, as this recent Daily Mail report on the discovery of an anaconda on a Brazilian building site may go some way to demonstrating! Even relatively harmless animals like cats or weasels can still carry rabies and spread it to your workers.

A doorman or onsite construction site guard will be able to spot these types of intruders while the lot is vacant and take the necessary steps to eject it from the premises before the workers return.

 Can you afford to leave your site unattended?

Leaving your construction site unattended could spell disaster for your business and employees, which is why it’s so important to put the most appropriate security measures in place.

All Time Security is dedicated to bringing a strong sense of safety to all areas to which we are appointed. We cover construction sites, event security, doorman services and much more, so don’t hesitate to get in touch for more information about our services.