Vandalism on construction sites is a persistent issue that can have significant consequences for both the construction sites and their surrounding communities. Vandalism refers to the intentional destruction or defacement of property. Construction sites often become targets due to their temporary and vulnerable setting.
The damage that results from vandalism affects a construction project in terms of delays and costs for repairs and replacements. It also affects the working conditions and the property’s reputation as people may feel unsafe when they see damage or graffiti around the construction site. They could connect the damage with the construction company because it has the most visible presence on the site.
Construction sites are dynamic environments with their daily activities, heavy machinery, and expensive equipment. Unfortunately, these factors make construction sites attractive targets for vandals.
Vandalism on construction sites can take many forms, including graffiti, arson, theft, sabotage, and intentional damage to equipment or structures. The motives behind such acts could be as simple as suspects looking for thrills or to quash their boredom. Some vandalism may be due to personal conflicts and political agendas.
One of the most common forms of vandalism on construction sites is graffiti. Vandals view blank walls, fences, and equipment as an empty canvas waiting for their tags or artwork. Of course, graffiti can be appreciated as an art form in certain contexts. However, unauthorized and unsolicited markings on construction sites show a lack of respect for the property and the work being done as well as hurting the aesthetics of the property.
Arson is another serious issue that can occur on construction sites. Vandals may intentionally set fire to structures or equipment. Unquestionably, this causes significant property damage, delays to project schedules, and even potential injuries or death. The financial implications of arson can be substantial. It’s not just the cost of repairing the damage. It may lead to insurance costs going up.
Theft has been a huge problem for construction sites for years. Stolen valuable tools, equipment, and materials result in large financial losses for the construction companies. Additionally, the absence of essential tools and equipment will disrupt the progress of construction projects, leading to delays and additional costs.
The Implications of Construction Site Vandalism and Theft
It’s all too easy to think construction site vandalism and theft will never happen to you until it does. Data says otherwise. The National Equipment Register (NER) equipment theft report reveals large equipment theft costs anywhere between $300 million and $1 billion.
Out of the 11,000 equipment and materials theft reports, only one-fifth are ever recovered per NER. It’s no wonder crooks go after construction sites because they can sell the equipment for about $29,000 for each one. The numbers are most likely worse because the data is based on reported thefts. Many companies won’t report crimes because they don’t want their insurance rates to go up.
It’s not just the theft of heavy equipment that can be costly. Vandals may cause additional damage. For example, The Daily Gazette reports someone used a skid steer to cause almost $14,000 in damage.
A construction site in Campbell River had $25,000 worth of damage done due to vandalism and racist graffiti according to the Times Colonist. While the graffiti is not likely the fault of anyone working on the construction site, it could be associated with the construction company. People may mistake the construction company as racist. This could cause serious harm to the company’s reputation.
Vandalism on construction sites can also lead to safety hazards. Deliberate damage to the scaffolding, structural supports, and safety systems compromise the stability and integrity of the construction site. This poses a risk to workers, visitors, and the community.
Furthermore, vandals sometimes tamper with machinery by cutting wires or disabling safety mechanisms. These problems may not be visible, and someone could overlook the tampering. If this happens, then it could lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.
The consequences of vandalism go beyond the immediate financial costs and safety concerns. Construction projects often aim to make a difference to surrounding communities. The projects create infrastructure, improve living conditions, and boost economic development. Vandalism undermines these efforts.
In doing so, they create eyesores and generate negative perceptions of the construction industry and the communities affected. Aside from project delays and financial implications, it can cause loss of trust in the communities they serve.
How to Reduce the Risk of Construction Site Vandalism
Companies can combat vandalism on construction sites by implementing different measures. Investing in security measures, such as video cameras and secure fencing, can act as deterrents. Collaborating with local law enforcement agencies and involving the community in reporting suspicious activities can also help address the issue.
Additionally, raising awareness about the consequences of vandalism through public campaigns and educational programs can foster a sense of responsibility and respect among individuals. Here are the top seven ways to lower the risk of construction site vandalism. These add multiple layers of protection, which can bolster the security of the construction site.
1. Erect a fence around the perimeter
If possible, put up a fence around the perimeter with the goal of creating one entry and one exit point. This can lower the risk of vandalism and trespassing. It also gives you greater control in monitoring who enters the construction site, including pick-ups and deliveries.
2. Use proper lighting
Thieves look for dark construction sites. One of the easiest, cheapest, and most effective ways to deter them is with lighting. This can eliminate hiding spaces and work as a deterrent when no one is on the construction site.
The right kind of lighting makes a difference as there’s more to good lighting besides brightness. You also must consider color, hue, and type of lighting. Therefore, it’s recommended to work with a security expert on lighting. The security professional inspects the construction site to make recommendations for lighting.
3. Incorporate GPS trackers
While you may not be able to lock up everything overnight, you can add GPS trackers to expensive and essential equipment. Even though there are GPS jammers that can disable the GPS, it’s still wise to have them. Take steps to make it harder to find the GPS.
Besides, using GPS will help you keep track of your assets at all times. You’ll be able to locate your assets when you need to replace broken or stolen equipment.
4. Etch identifiable information on assets
Since GPS trackers can be jammed or stop working, as an added measure, engrave identifying information on the tools and equipment. This could potentially prevent theft because sellers may not buy an item with an inscription as it’s a sign that it may have been stolen.
5. Invest in an asset-tracking system
Considering your adding identifiable information and GPS, this is a great time to take an inventory of assets. In fact, it could be worth investing in an asset tracking system if you don’t have one yet. These systems allow you to enter identifying information, GPS information, photos, and other details. Whenever something goes missing, you’ll have the information and photos to prove it’s your asset. It will come in handy as you work with insurance companies and law enforcement.
An asset management tracking system helps you manage construction assets and instantly get details about each one. Anytime you need equipment or a replacement, the system can locate one quickly. This system can do automatic notifications whenever an asset needs maintenance or servicing. This helps lengthen the life of the asset.
Maximizing every asset is a must between the high cost of materials, the supply chain delays, and worker shortages. Additionally, it lowers the risk of dealing with malfunctioning equipment, injuries, and project delays due to finding replacements.
6. Partner with the community
The communities surrounding the construction site have a stake in its success. Partnering with the community can make a difference. Communicate with them. Be sure to reach out to neighborhood associations. They will be grateful when a company wants to connect with them. They can be potential witnesses and help keep an eye on the construction site.
Connect with the local police department’s crime prevention unit. They often provide free advice and information on security. Work to build relationships with vendors, suppliers, and contractors too.
7. Install video surveillance with remote monitoring
Security cameras with remote monitoring is a proactive security system that contains multiple layers of security. The remote video monitoring can be done by trained human monitoring operators and video analytics. This pairing can help catch potential problems before any damage is done. Traditional security systems are reactive and don’t take action until after vandalism or theft.
Using humans and technology provides you with the best of both worlds. Video analytics takes on a lot of tedious work while the human can confirm something is happening and take the appropriate actions right away. Timing is critical as it minimizes damage and increases the chances of an arrest on the construction site. The monitoring operators work at a place away from the construction site.
Summary
In conclusion, vandalism on construction sites is a significant problem with serious consequences. From graffiti to arson and theft, these acts of destruction disrupt construction projects. When they aren’t prevented or caught early, they cause financial losses, jeopardize safety, and negatively impact communities.
By implementing preventive measures, raising awareness, and fostering a culture of respect, the construction industry can work towards minimizing vandalism and creating a safer, more productive environment for everyone involved.
To learn more about security to deter construction site vandalism and theft, review the construction security and safety best practices guide. If you’d like to know more, feel free to contact us.
