The security of a construction site is something that certainly needs to be addressed.
Regardless of the type or size of project one is working on, it’s imperative to equip the site with appropriate security measures to prevent trespassers and thieves from attempting to gain entry to the site.
Not only can construction sites be dangerous, but they tend to also contain a whole host of valuable and specialist equipment. This guide lists and explained some of the tips for protecting a building site.
Secure the perimeter
Securing a building site’s perimeter by installing a 2m fence should go without saying. It acts as a deterrent and is a physical barrier helping to prevent unauthorised personnel from accessing the site.
One should be sure to maintain the fence throughout the project, ensuring it remains in good condition from start to finish (particularly one should look for gaps underneath, especially where there is uneven ground).
Electric fences is more beneficial
A standard fence is usually enough, but electric fences can sometimes be more beneficial
A standard fence is usually enough, but electric fences can sometimes be more beneficial. They’re incredibly difficult to scale and if anyone does try to cut a wire, a silent alarm will be triggered, notifying that someone is in fact trying to intrude.
Or if the owner wants to take extra caution, the owner may consider using an access control system. Whether one uses iris recognition, fobs or swipe cards, access control systems provide a sophisticated way of monitoring who has accessed into the site.
Gates and entry points
One should also remember to make sure all gates and entry points are locked after normal working hours and whenever the site is left unoccupied.
Utilising signages
Another security measure we advise is to put up signs, warning people of the dangers.
Signs that advise potential trespassers of the risks and inform them that the site is being monitored are likely to deter them out of fear of the possible consequences.
Ensuring the Site is Well-Lit
Making sure that the building site is well-lit 24/7 is an effective method of security
Making sure that the building site is well-lit 24/7 is another effective method of security. It can trick any possible trespassers into thinking that staff are still working on site, helping to prevent opportunists from trying their luck.
And if anyone does gain entry to the site, the owner will have a much better chance of seeing them (even at night).
Locking Valuables in Shipping Containers
An important part of construction site security is making sure all valuables, equipment, machinery, materials and resources are safely stored when workers are away and the site is vacant.
A solution that the company often recommend is to store all of a person’s belongings in shipping containers.
They’re large and well-known for their tough and hard-wearing nature so are ideal for keeping possessions safe during all hours of the day.
Arranging a Security Risk Assessment
During the assessment a site is inspected to identify all weak points and vulnerabilities
If someone is working on a relatively big construction site or anticipates the project to extend over a long period of time, something to consider is having a security expert visit the site to conduct a security risk assessment.
During the assessment a site will be inspected to identify all weak points and vulnerabilities.
One will then receive bespoke and detailed recommendations for combatting these weaknesses to make sure that the building site is kept safe and secure at all times.
Installing CCTV Cameras & Intruder Alarms
Installing a CCTV security camera system throughout the site can go a long way to helping prevent losses as it will reduce theft and thus the negative financial impact on a business.
They’re useful for monitoring the entire construction site and ensures that the owner know what’s going on at the site at all times.
If anyone planning to steal from the site sees a CCTV camera, entering the site suddenly becomes much less appealing. And even if a trespasser does proceed to enter the site, the owner will have high-quality footage of them.
Advancement of technology
Technology in the field of CCTV has developed significantly over time with 4K or greater resolution
Technology in the field of CCTV has developed significantly over time. A.P.E Fire & Security, for example, installs cameras capable of 4K resolution or greater and images can be compressed, stored and reviewed with almost zero loss to image quality.
The systems also enable easy remote viewing via smart devices, meaning one can view live footage of the site even when the owner not present, providing a similar level of security to having an onsite guard for a fraction of the cost.
Security alarm system
In addition to a series of security cameras, one should consider the benefits of a security alarm system.
The majority of security alarms feature a specifically placed sensor that is triggered when someone is close by, sensing their movement or body heat.
The alarm will then either notify the police and/or the owner of a potential break-in or if it’s an audible alarm, it will produce a loud noise to shock and surprise criminals, likely scaring them away before they can cause any damage.