Criminals watch your business to see these layers. The less layers on any site, the more likely for unwanted activity to occur.
Building and construction sites provide a security challenge due to their constant change; both physically in the value and accessibility of the property they contain, and the frequent access needed by a wide variety of outside contractors.
As every construction site will differ in terms of scale, location, duration of work and the security risks it is not possible for a single guide to cover all possibilities.
Ask yourself…. What if someone walked onto your site, through any number of access points, and no one questioned their presence on the site? Unfortunately, this happens frequently on many sites.
When previous clients have been asked what their primary goals are, the vast majority say it is to bring the job in on time and on budget. When asked where site security falls on the list of priorities, they give a wide range of answers. Considering the potential hazards today’s construction sites pose to employees and the general public, not to mention the potential loss of material and equipment from theft, site security should be near the top of the list.
Items to consider when reviewing security on sites include:
- Security Plans.
Every construction site will benefit from having a well-developed, site-specific security plan. Items to be addressed on a site security plan should be based on local and regional crime information as well as potential targets on site. All managerial staff of the general contractor, as well as the subcontractors on site, should be trained on the specifics of the security plan. The plan should be routinely reviewed with all employees on the site. Routine (minimum of monthly) audits of the security plan and its effectiveness should be conducted. These audits are to be documented and maintained for review.
- Perimeter Security..
Basic site security starts with a good perimeter barrier system. The most common perimeter barrier will be fencing. Regardless of the type of barrier that is used, it must be secured and allow only a limited number of access points. When access points are not open, high quality locks are to be used to secure the opening. The keys to these locks should be maintained by either the site manager or the property development manager. The keys can be logged out to personnel as needed to allow for access through pre-determined locations.
- Security signage..
Various warning signs are to be placed along the entire perimeter warning the general public that the site is hazardous and is monitored by 24-hour security (whether it is or not). “No trespassing” signs should also be placed along the perimeter to warn the public that trespassers will be arrested (whether they will be or not).
- Lighting. .
After-hours lighting should remain on through the night. The first level of lighting should be focused along the perimeter of the job site and the main entrance to the site. Someone who is considering entering the site after hours to vandalise the site, damage property or steal material or equipment is far less likely to do so if the site is well-lit. Extra light should be located near the storage areas of valuable assets, materials or equipment.
- CCTV..
Closed Circuit Television positioned around the jobs site will assist in identifying and prosecuting trespassers and theft suspects. CCTV will also assist the general contractor in monitoring employee activities.
- Security Patrols..
Security patrol guards add a layer that visually deters and detects unwanted activity. Patrol Guards patrol during the night with flashlights and draw a positive awareness to your business which will compliment your current security levels. Patrol Guards deal with any difficulties that might arise while you are not present including lighting, health & safety findings, fires, water leaks, natural disasters, criminal activity and much more. This gives you immediate assistance from experienced Security Response Services staff members that are trained to deal with any after-hours incidents. This in return relieves a lot of stress and concern as you can trust that our level of expertise within the security industry is second to none.
If you would like to know more about how we can help you on your construction site, please call or email us.
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