How to Cut Construction Losses with Advanced Theft Protection

It’s no surprise that thieves often target construction sites. Most are littered with high-value materials, strewn about in dimly lit areas with little to no security to protect them. According to the National Equipment Register, construction site theft results in up to $1 billion in losses each year. 

Mitigating those losses means having the appropriate security in place to keep your team and your job site secure. In this guide, we’ll explore how overlooking security investments could be costing your construction site big time and how OK-See security can help.

The Impact of Theft on Construction Sites

With annual losses in the US alone in the hundreds of millions at best, theft remains a major challenge in the construction industry. Materials like steel, copper, lumber, and piping have become frequent targets, and even single incidents of theft can result in millions of dollars in losses.

Theft rates vary from place to place, though urban areas often experience higher rates due to population density and organized crime.

Unfortunately, small construction sites are particularly vulnerable, as they lack the resources for security and recovery. To make matters worse, as little as 25% of stolen construction goods and 5% of unregistered machinery are recovered. In short, once you’ve had a piece of equipment stolen, there is little likelihood you’ll be able to get it back.

Of course, beyond the costs of replacing physical materials and equipment, theft can also have indirect costs, such as greater insurance premiums, contractual penalties, extended project durations, and overtime payments. 

As a site manager or construction company owner, these sorts of incidents can damage your reputation and affect your ability to secure projects down the line. Clients aren’t very confident in contractors who fail to protect their assets, and in the long, theft can have a negative impact on your company’s profitability.

Why Traditional Security Measures Fall Short

Your existing security measures might not be doing enough to scare away intruders during your most vulnerable hours. Additionally, many modern thieves are finding ingenious solutions to traditional forms of security, including short fences, low-quality locks, and thin chains. 

Even the most heavily guarded construction sites are prone to theft, which is why many site owners are turning to advanced security measures to protect their assets.

Best Practices for Construction Site Theft Prevention

As a construction company owner or site manager, you have the responsibility of making sure your site is protected from theft. Ultimately, it’s the combined effort of a team following best practices to do so.

Here are a few ways to mitigate theft on your jobsite starting today: 

• Strengthen Physical Security Measures: By investing in effective traditional security measures, such as quality fencing, lighting, and security staff, you can deter theft and alleviate the stress on your employees that comes from a lack of workplace safety.

• • Implement Advanced Security Technology: Security technology like smart security trailers and AI-driven software can be invaluable tools for preventing theft. 
  • Develop a Theft Prevention Plan: Assess vulnerability in your site and incorporate a mixture of physical protections and advanced security technologies to reduce the risk of your most valuable assets being stolen. 

• Create Awareness: With your plan in place, ensure all personnel are aware and compliant with your theft prevention practices. This might include security training or monthly meetings to reinforce the vigilant mindset. 

OK-See Innovative Security Solutions for the Modern Construction Site

An advanced security system is the best solution for site managers who want to cut losses and protect their assets and workers from intruders. That’s why OK-See Security offers cutting-edge surveillance for construction sites of all shapes and sizes with intelligent features, including:

• • AI technology that’s capable of distinguishing real threats from false alarms. Our advanced systems can tell the difference between a rat and a squirrel or a person walking by or loitering. 

• User-friendly app allows for remote monitoring and control from your phone or desktop.

• 24/7 monitoring and response for constant vigilance and quick responses in the case of theft. 

Our high-end mobile security trailers combine the best in software, security, and service, offering the most reliable remote monitoring in the industry. Engineered for durability with specialized tires, masts, and outriggers for any environment, as well as a 72-hour run time with optional generators, an OK-See security trailer provides total coverage anywhere, anytime. 

Increase Your Profitability with Advanced Security Solutions

With top-tier anti-theft equipment for your construction site, you can gain a competitive edge by reducing inventory loss and taking better control over your most precious assets. If you own or manage a construction company or job site, get in touch with OK-See today to try a free demo of our intelligent mobile security systems.