Every construction business is aware that construction sites are similar to treasure troves for thieves and vandals. As security breaches could severely disrupt operations, construction sites should be protected with complete security measures. 

The volume of construction work in the UK is increasing. A 2024 PwC report found that the UK’s construction spending has been higher than other European countries. The number is driven by the various infrastructure, industrial, and non-residential projects across the kingdom. 

Despite the increase, site crime remains a persisting issue. Full of valuable materials and expensive machinery, almost everything inside a construction site could be easily damaged or stolen. 

Approximately 6,000 break-ins occur annually, with plant theft costing the industry £800 million a year. Research by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) revealed that 92 percent of construction workers are affected by theft, with 21 percent saying theft occurs every week. 

Businesses across the UK are expecting the Government to address the issue. Last year, the Government created the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act, yet it only focuses on problems within the agricultural sector. The issue suffered by construction businesses remains unsolved until wider changes are made. 

Construction managers should ensure the safety of the site independently as well. It is necessary to guarantee the safety of assets, workforce, and construction progress. 

Understanding what’s at risk

The first step in protecting a site is understanding which components are exposed to threats. 

Construction managers must protect assets, such as the exposed structures of a building, which can be easily damaged. Next is the high-value vehicles and tools, which are attractive to thieves due to their resale value. Materials like metal, cables, and plumbing supplies are often targeted for their scrap value.

The human component of a construction site is often at risk, too. Safety risks to workers should be reviewed, as damages or loss of equipment can lead to unsafe working conditions. Sites also have visitors who should be protected from potential hazards and not at risk of theft or harm. 

Unauthorised individuals not only risk their safety but can also create hazardous conditions for others. Trespassers and thieves endanger both themselves and others when illicitly accessing a site. Deliberate acts of vandalism and sabotage, such as arson, can seriously endanger human life. 

Another priority is the construction operations, which could be delayed or disrupted by security threats. For example, vandalism could result in costly repairs and downtime. Injury to key personnel could also halt important operations. 

Countering security risks

Assessing the property is the first step in deciding which measures are needed for specific construction projects. For instance, long-term projects may benefit from permanent security installations. Meanwhile, short-term projects might rely more on mobile security solutions and temporary installations.

Every building requires a tailored approach. Therefore, consulting the needs of different projects with a security company would be a wise choice. Security experts can perform security reviews for houses, country estates, and commercial sites. 

With expertise in security management, Marengo advises clients during the planning stages of construction projects. It is also available for consulting throughout any construction lifecycle to avoid retrofitting security infrastructure. 

Depending on the threats to the construction site, site managers must combine different physical security measures. For example, fencing is a great way to establish perimeter security. As the first line of defence, high fences with anti-climb features like welded mesh will deter unwanted intruders. Gates and other access points should be padlocked to control who can get in and out of the property. 

Surveillance must be installed at strategic points around the site. One might want to save money by installing dummy cameras instead of real CCTVs. However, responsible managers should approach construction security with real cameras for several reasons. 

Some fake cameras are easy to spot for professional criminals. Additionally, installing cameras with night vision capabilities is advantageous, since it may catch details unnoticed by human eyes in the dark. Investing in quality cameras will be worth it in the long run, as they could be used on multiple projects.

Alarm systems are also a crucial investment, especially when fewer people are working on the project. Alarms can be connected to doors, windows, or other access points around the perimeter. Once triggered, they alert security personnel or local authorities that can respond quickly to breaches. 

Equipment should be locked away together with valuable materials like precious metals. The same goes for other high-value goods like fuel and raw materials. Some insurance companies might require locks to protect unattended materials.