Protecting Your Construction Site — the Ultimate Security Checklist

Risk management is one of the many things construction project managers are responsible for during a construction project. With all the construction tools, materials, and heavy machinery involved, a construction site can be a dangerous place to be.

But general safety is not the only risk project managers have to mitigate. Construction sites often have plenty of expensive building materials and equipment on-site, making them a prime target for thieves, vandals, and even arsonists. 

Without proper construction site security protocols in place, project managers can expect to face many challenges, unplanned costs, and ultimately, project completion delays. But a combination of active and passive security measures will help you adequately cover your bases. 

Below is a construction site security checklist to help ensure that your site is well protected.

1. Draft a Security Plan

Creating a security plan is very important and should take precedence even before commencing any construction work. Factor in the potential risks the site could face as you devise the security plan. Is the site located in an area with a high crime rate? Has the construction site triggered any controversy? What valuable items will be on-site, and how can they be protected? 

Also, make sure the plan includes information such as:

• A map of the construction site.
• An inventory list of materials and tools on location.
• The estimated start and completion project dates.
• The name and contact details of the security manager. 
• A list of all personnel and contractors working on-site. 

2. Install Fencing Around the Site

This step is almost a no-brainer, but it is still worth pointing out. Installing sturdy fencing around the construction site will go a long way in warding off intruders and trespassers. 

Make sure that the fence is high enough to prevent intruders from climbing over and that the fence line is clear of equipment or shrubbery that intruders can use as possible hiding spots. Remember to inspect the perimeter regularly to identify any vulnerabilities or evidence of tampering. 

3. Install a Security Camera Surveillance System

Investing in a camera surveillance system is a wise security measure. The presence of cameras alone on-site is often enough to deter criminals. If something does happen, the cameras will capture footage that will help the police identify the culprits and possibly recover any stolen items.

As you set up the surveillance system, ensure that all the important spots, storage areas, entry points, and site perimeter are covered. Consider different types of cameras for different locations. For instance, a license plate capture camera can’t do the same job as a wide-area surveillance camera. 

Note that you might need a power backup supply in case of a power failure, which can often accompany new construction. This way, you won’t lose surveillance during moments when you might really need it.

4. Remember the Lighting

Poorly lit construction sites can attract thieves and vandals who will want to sneak into the site once the contractors have left for the day. As such, make sure you have lighting installed at every entry point and motion-triggered lights that switch on automatically when they detect movement. 

Additionally, you will need good lighting to illuminate the construction site if you plan on installing surveillance cameras. You want to have clear images to help identify suspects. 

With the increase of crime on construction sites, project managers must take preventative measures to improve on-site security. After all, you are not just protecting the valuable assets but also the contractors and workers on-site. Feel free to contact All State Security for more information on how you can bolster the security at your construction site.