Criminals and anti-social elements frequently target construction sites. The lack of a physical structure protecting equipment is one of the biggest reasons behind this vulnerability. Construction sites with equipment lying around unattended, especially at night, are particularly vulnerable. If equipment is damaged or goes missing, the entire project can be halted. This obviously causes significant financial losses. In this blog, we list the biggest security risks on construction sites and how to address them. Read until the end to make an informed decision.
Trespassing and Unauthorised Access
One of the biggest problems faced by construction sites across Australia is trespassing and unauthorised access. Since construction sites often cover large areas, there are usually many entry points for passersby, children, vandals, and even thieves. While not everyone might have ill intentions, it is difficult to separate the good from the bad. In such cases, a blanket security policy is often good.
How to Fix This Issue?
Perimeter fencing, lockable gates, and clear signs are traditional ways to minimise the risk of trespassing. However, time and again, they have proved to be ineffective. You must rely on swipe cards and biometric-powered access control systems to ensure entry only to authorised personnel. Additionally, hiring security personnel to patrol the premises provides additional protection against vandals.
Vandalism
Vandalism and sabotage remain one of the biggest security risks on construction sites. Whether from competitors, disgruntled employees, or even activists, vandalism can cost you thousands of dollars in losses and even delay the project’s completion.
How to Fix This Issue?
A layered approach has proven to be the most effective against vandalism. The combination of electronic surveillance and security guards in Brisbane deters illegal activities at your construction site. Fencing, alarm systems, and motion-activated lighting are all effective assets against vandalism.
Safety Risks and Liability Issues
A construction site is like a maze, which is difficult to explore. Everyone working at the work site will be aware of the treacherous open trenches, flimsy under-construction structure, and other risk-posing factors such as exposed wiring and sharp tools. An intruder who doesn’t belong at the work site will not be aware of these and is very likely to injure themselves.
There are good chances the injured individual will file a suit against your construction company.
How to Fix This Issue?
Strict and absolute access control remains the most effective solution to this dilemma. Hiring a security firm helps enforce strict access control. The security guards will mention the visitor log and verify identity before letting anyone in. Moreover, you can encourage your workers to report suspicious behaviour by people they don’t recognise.
Internal Theft And Conflicts
At construction sites, the security risks are not always external. Internal theft is one of the biggest problems plaguing construction sites in Australia. From contractors and subcontractors to supervisors and workers, it is important to keep a check of everyone ethically to prevent internal theft. Moreover, conflicts between employees pose a huge risk not just to those involved but also those around them.
How to Fix This Issue?
Implementing strict inventory control is one of the best ways to prevent internal theft. Promote accountability by assinging the responsibility of expensive equipment to specific personnel. Conduct regular audits to take stock of the inventory. Strategically place CCTV cameras around the construction site to deter workers from trying theft in the first place.
The Bottom Line
Construction sites are home to expensive equipment, tools, and machinery. Moreover, the lack of physical structure makes it a soft target for thieves. You must invest in a multi-layered security system to prevent unauthorised access and vandalism.
Security measures can be overwhelming to put in place without the right guidance. Hire Sec QLD, one of the most trusted security companies in Brisbane to guarantee peace of mind. They offer services such as security guards, security patrols, electronics security, alarm response, and corporate security.
