Preventing theft on construction sites

According to Allianz, theft costs the UK construction industry over £800m each year. The problem only seems to be getting worse; in a recent survey of construction workers, two-thirds of respondents believed that crime increased on construction sites in 2023, with about 70% experiencing theft at least once a year.

Just one instance of theft can significantly impact a construction project; not only is there the immediate financial cost of replacing the item, but missing equipment can cause delays to the schedule, plus insurance premiums can go up. On projects where time and money are already tight, dealing with stolen goods can be the tip of the iceberg. So, what can be done to prevent theft on sites?

An easy target

Construction sites can be seen as an easy target when they are left unattended, often without any obvious security measures in place. Tools are commonly stolen as they can be taken quickly.  Lighting and cabling are not quite as straightforward to steal but are still a target amongst thieves, as is fuel (either in cans or syphoned from tanks). Also, don’t assume that plant machinery is safe just because it’s more difficult to take.

Preventative measures

According to BauWatch’s survey, a significant minority (40%) of thefts are opportunists. Preventative measures can therefore be taken to deter thieves from breaking and entering.

• Keep the sight well lit. If you are concerned about the financial and environmental impact of lighting the site 24/7, you could use motion sensors in specific areas.
• Set up CCTV. Having a security guard on site is often not financially viable, so CCTV is a good alternative. Advances in technology mean you can usually access the footage from an app on your phone and get notified of any unusual activity. Plus, putting up signs warning that CCTV is in use can act as a deterrent.
• Protect the perimeter. Put physical barriers in place that make access more difficult. For example, use hoarding around the site instead of heras fencing.
• Review the risks. The project manager should regularly assess the risks of theft and, where possible, take action to mitigate them. They should have a schedule of work to ensure certain equipment is only on site when needed. Also, keeping a record of the assets on site helps to identify any vulnerable items and highlight if anything is missing.
• Make it a team effort. It’s not just the project manager’s responsibility to keep the site secure. All staff should be trained to spot the risks and safely store valuable equipment.

Get the right insurance

With construction sites a prime target of crime, having the right cover in place is essential. If you do experience theft, proving to your insurer that you have taken the appropriate precautions can strengthen your claim.

Focus can help brokers source the right insurance for their construction clients. To find out more, please get in touch on 0345 345 4511 or email sales@focus-insurance.com.