Trespassers and thieves targeting construction sites are nothing new for ECAM, or those in the construction industry. This example, where a thief comes ready to dig on site in broad daylight, does stand out, however. Fortunately for the project managers, ECAM security professionals were watching.
Just after 6:00 pm, ECAM monitoring operators observing a multifamily residential construction project observed a trespasser on the property who had compromised the perimeter fencing to access an area alongside the building. As security staff activated audible onsite warnings, the trespasser began digging for something. Monitoring operators contacted local police dispatch with the details and officers responded to the property within minutes, quickly making an arrest.
This example, like many others we have seen as construction security specialists, demonstrates just how physical security solutions like perimeter fencing- while foundational for delineating property boundaries and serving as a visual deterrent- have limitations when it comes to fully safeguarding construction sites from trespassers, vandals, and thieves. The inherent vulnerabilities of relying solely on fencing for security are notable, especially given the resourcefulness of intruders in overcoming these kinds of barriers.
Perimeter fencing can be circumvented in multiple ways, whether it’s scaling the fence, cutting, tunneling under, or even using trucks or other equipment to breach the barrier. In some cases, it’s as simple as moving the perimeter fence themselves to gain access. These actions can occur without immediate detection, particularly if the fencing obstructs visibility into the site, which delays response times to intrusions.
With the rise in construction thefts incidents ongoing, allowing thefts on properties to continue to occur through breaches in perimeter barriers underscores the need for more comprehensive security measures. The limitation of physical fencing primarily lies in its passive nature—it does not actively monitor or respond to security breaches.
In contrast, monitored surveillance cameras offer significant advantages over static fencing. They provide real-time surveillance capabilities, enabling immediate detection and response to unauthorized activities. Surveillance systems can cover multiple angles and areas, offer night vision, and can be integrated with other security measures like motion sensors and alarms to enhance overall site security. They can also be used in more creative applications, like the time-lapse overhead cameras implemented by our client, Exxel Pacific. This proactive approach not only helps in deterring potential intruders but also aids in collecting evidence in case of security breaches, or in more creative scenarios, like site progress videos.
Integrating these technologies with traditional fencing creates a layered security approach that helps to address the limitations of physical barriers alone. This combination can ensure a more robust defense against the risks of theft, vandalism, and unauthorized entry.
For construction site managers and property owners, upgrading from basic perimeter fencing to include advanced surveillance and monitoring systems is a crucial step towards achieving a secure and resilient construction site.
A Cutting-Edge Remote Video Monitoring Security Solution
ECAM’s remote video monitoring and surveillance elevates basic defense by providing a seamless integration of high-definition surveillance cameras and advanced video analytics. This technology enables real-time detection and monitoring of activities around the construction site.
Our solution combines sophisticated video analytics with human oversight to detect and respond to incidents as they occur. This proactive approach helps to ensure that potential security breaches are addressed quickly, and as they are happening, significantly reducing the likelihood of crime and enhancing overall site safety.
For construction site managers seeking to bolster their perimeter security, ECAM offers tailored security solutions that adapt to the unique challenges of your site. By integrating our remote monitoring technology, you can enhance your perimeter defenses and significantly improve the safety and security of your construction site. To explore how our remote video monitoring can help fortify your site’s defenses, contact us today to speak with a specialist and schedule a demo.
