STAYING IN TOUCH: JACQUELYN ODURO
The Manitoba construction season continues an alarming trend has emerged: a significant increase in theft on construction sites and company offices. The most commonly reported incidents involve broken windows on vehicles, stolen tools, and missing mechanical equipment. These thefts not only result in financial loss but also disrupt project timelines and pose safety concerns.
To help safeguard your site and equipment, here are some tips to help deter theft:
Erecting barriers: Secure your perimeter by erecting fences or barriers to prevent unauthorized access by both people and vehicles. Effective barriers can deter would-be thieves by making it more difficult to gain entry.
Installing cameras on sites: Position cameras strategically around the site to monitor activity. Visible cameras can act as a deterrent, while recorded footage can provide crucial evidence if theft occurs.
Enhance lighting for outdoor areas – Ensure that all outdoor areas are well-lit, especially during off-hours. Adequate lighting reduces hiding spots for thieves and increases the likelihood of them being spotted.
Tracking devices – Consider adding tracking devices, such as Apple AirTags, to vehicles, heavy equipment, and other valuable assets. These devices can assist in locating stolen items and can be a vital tool in recovery efforts.
Lock and secure equipment – Always lock up tools, vehicles, and equipment when not in use. Keeping these items out of sight and inaccessible can significantly reduce the temptation for theft.
Register and record serial numbers – Keep detailed records of the serial numbers of your vehicles, trailers, and power tools. This information is invaluable to investigators, helping them to identify stolen items and increasing the chances of recovering your property.
If you are having issues with theft, please contact your regional safety advisor.
