Securing Building Sites- Using Physical Security

Danger Keep Out sign Securing building sites is a hot topic in the construction industry. Building sites are a common target for vandals and thieves. They can be targets for homeless people as well as kids who view building sites as an adventure playground. It is because of these potential intruders that construction companies must ensure that building sites are as secure as they can be.

Here, we discuss the best ways to achieve this.

Install Perimeter Security

Installing perimeter security is one of the easiest and most effective ways of securing building sites. Ensure any fences or gates are sufficiently high enough to make it difficult for people to climb over. Also ensure there are no gaps beneath the barriers, fences and gates to avoid anyone crawling underneath.

Keep entrances to a minimum

Building sites are easy targets to thieves as it can be difficult to keep track of visitors and contractors. Maintain control over who is entering and exiting the site by limiting the number of entrances and exits.

Install CCTV

Although installing cameras can be expensive, they can be very effective and means that site managers always have visibility of the site. Always post signs when CCTV is in operation. It informs people that they are on camera but also acts as a secondary deterrent if the message is reinforced through clear signs.

Layer security with signage

Although extremely low cost, having signage that is prominent around the site can be extremely effective and adds another layer of security. Even though the signs alone do not prohibit unauthorised personnel, they have been proven to be an effective deterrent. They can be a weak form of security when used alone, but placing them together with other forms of security can help to secure a building site.

Use security lighting

Wherever possible, use security lighting to deter anyone from entering. The security lights are motion censored and can deter people from entering, especially at night time. If any intruders successfully enter the premises, the security lighting can help them be identified.

Consider manned security

Lighting may not always be an option. However, if your building site is in a high-risk area, consider manned security. They can carry out regular patrols to limit any attempted arson, theft or vandalism. Alarm systems could be used instead of or alongside managed security to increase the protection even further. You can choose between loud alarms, designed to shock the intruder or a silent alarm that will contact the police.

Supervise Visitors

It is imperative that all visitors to the building site are supervised at all times. They should be provided with the appropriate safety gear such as hard hats and high-vis jackets.

Organise construction site carefully

Time needs to be spent to ensure the building site remains safe and secure at all times. Stack any building materials safely and not too high to avoid the risk of toppling over. Immobilise all vehicles and always remove the keys from all equipment. Hide as much out of site as possible and secure any substances that may be hazardous. These measures will protect your site from theft and also help reduce the risk of any injuries occurring.

Not only can weak security lead to theft or vandalism which can cause businesses insurance claim headaches. It can cause potential delays to a project and can even cause injury. Regardless of the size of the project, securing building sites should be a top priority for all construction companies. By layering physical and perimeter security, they can have peace of mind that their property remains as safe and secure as possible. By taking these appropriate steps, the risk of damage, loss and injury can be significantly reduced.

What’s Next?

To find out more about how physical security can benefit your business, please contact us on 01522 682255 for a free, no-obligation quotation and feasibility survey to assess your perimeter security equipment.

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