Construction businesses are at a heightened risk of job site theft, as expensive tools and machinery are attractive targets for criminals. Theft of construction materials can substantially disrupt a project, leading to delays and significant financial losses; therefore, it is essential for companies to understand how to prevent these incidents.

Although every job site has its own unique challenges, basic strategies to prevent theft include the following:

• Create a written security policy and job site security plan that assigns supervisory responsibilities, encourages awareness, and establishes best practices for securing tools, equipment, and materials.
• Contact local law enforcement officials at the beginning of a new project so they can help monitor the job site, especially after hours.
• Establish procedures for employees to report theft or suspicious activity and maintain detailed records of security incidents.
• Conduct thorough background checks on employees before hiring them and keep a list of people authorized to be on a job site.
• Secure the worksite with a security fence, camera, lockable gates, and security guards, and keep it well-lit.
• Train employees on how to store materials and equipment properly.
• Check the job site at the beginning and end of each day to ensure nothing is missing.
• Maintain detailed inventories that include photos of valuable equipment and important information (e.g., serial numbers, purchase dates, etc.).
• Mark and label all tools distinctively for easy identification.
• Implement a checkout system for tools and equipment to track their whereabouts.
• Remove unnecessary tools and materials from a job site to reduce items thieves may target.

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If a job site theft does occur, it is critical to report it to the authorities. Although they may not always be able to recover stolen items, reporting losses allows them to establish a pattern that may help solve future cases or prevent them from occurring. The reports should include as much detail as possible about the incident (e.g., when it took place and what was stolen).

Additionally, a business should promptly report thefts to their insurance provider so the insurer can respond quickly and begin the claims process. The insurance professional can also offer more information on available policies so a construction business can secure coverage that best fits its needs.

Conclusion

Theft might be difficult to predict, but there are several controls that construction operations can implement to protect their property and mitigate their risks. Contact us today for more information.

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This document is not intended to be an exhaustive source of information nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should consult legal counsel or a licensed insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2024 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.