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When you think of high-risk areas for criminal activity, the top of your most likely isn’t a construction site. Yet, the reality is that construction sites are hot spots for a variety of criminal activities like theft, vandalism, trespassing, and even violent crime. These areas are ripe for the taking as they are often in the process of being finished, leaving the structure, materials, and tools unsecured. Not to mention, the barrier around most job sites is a thin strip of yellow hazard tape that can be easily infiltrated, leaving your job site vulnerable.
Thus, if you are in charge of a job site, it may be time to start thinking about hiring construction site security guards. While initially it may seem superfluous, when you consider all the ways guards can secure and prevent accidents or losses, it quickly becomes apparent that the investment is well worth it. Continue reading to learn more about the essential functions construction site security guards provide, so businesses can carry on as usual, without the risk of criminal activity.
What Is Construction Site Security?
Construction site security guards are hired by businesses that want to ensure their property is safe from damage and theft. In addition to providing safety and protection, these guards also help protect against liability claims. They do this through several different methods including:
- Preventing access to restricted areas
- Monitoring traffic flow
- Escorting workers in and out of the job site
- Providing first aid
- Documenting incidents
- Reporting suspicious activity
- Maintaining order during working hours
- Providing security after-hours
- Monitoring points of entry and exit
- And much more!
How Can Construction Site Security Guards Help Protect Your Business?
By having a guard at your job site, you can rest assured knowing that everything will run smoothly while your employees are working. This means less stress for you and your team, which ultimately leads to higher productivity. Additionally, with a guard present, there’s no need to worry about your equipment being stolen or damaged.
In fact, one study found that companies that have a guard onsite see an average increase in productivity of $1,000 per employee per year. That’s a pretty big return on investment!
Why Should You Hire a Construction Site Security Guard?
While not every company needs a full-time guard, many find that having one or several guards on staff (depending upon the size of the job site) helps them tremendously. Here are some reasons why:
Protection
When you hire a guard, you are giving yourself peace of mind knowing that your job site is protected. This includes the structure you are building, as well as tools, supplies, and machinery that may be present at the site during construction.
Safety
Having a guard onsite ensures that your employees are kept safe from harm. Whether it’s protecting them from falling objects or preventing them from getting into trouble with contractors or other workers, a guard can keep an eye on things, so everyone remains safe.
Liability
If someone gets hurt on your job site, you could face legal action if you aren’t properly insured. By using a guard, you eliminate this possibility.
Orderly Workplace
With a guard onsite, you can rest easy knowing that your employees will stay focused and productive. This is beneficial in keeping the entire project moving forward in a timely manner, ensuring you complete the project on time within the budget.
Peace Of Mind
When you hire construction site security guards, you can feel confident knowing that your property is safe and secure. It gives you the sense of relief needed to get back to focusing on what matters most – your business.
Ensures The Right People Are on Site
Particularly when dealing with large job sites, it is common for suppliers and subcontractors to be around frequently. While it is easy to keep track of regular employees, this may not be the case with other visitors to the site. Thus, if someone has less than honorable intentions, they may be able to sneak into your site undetected, under the guise of being a supplier or subcontractor. With a competent security guard, you can rest easy knowing they are monitoring all those who enter the premises, so only those who are supposed to be at your site are allowed entry.
How Do I Choose the Best Construction Site Security Guards For My Project?
When choosing a guard for your next job site, here are three things to consider:
Experience
As mentioned above, experience is key. Make sure you choose a guard who has been doing this type of work for years. They should know how to handle situations common at construction sites, as well as firsthand experience of this nature.
Training
Most guards are required by law to receive training before they can start working. Make sure you check their credentials to ensure they meet the requirements set forth by state and local laws.
Insurance
In addition to meeting the qualifications listed above, you should make sure the guard you choose carries insurance. This protects both you and them against any accidents that might occur while they are on duty.
Be sure to do your research prior to hiring security guards
Check with other contractors in the area to find out who they have used in the past with a positive experience. Additionally, take advantage of the age of the internet and check out online reviews when making your decision.
The Importance of Construction Site Safety
In recent years there has been an increase in the number of injuries and fatalities occurring during the construction process. According to the Occupational Health & Safety Administration, over 1,000 people die each year from occupational injuries and illnesses. These statistics highlight the importance of safety procedures and practices within the construction industry.
When you choose an experienced security company, you can turn the burden of safety and security over to the professionals. Guards will ensure all safety procedures are implemented and followed, giving you one less thing to worry about, so you can focus on the project at hand. With fewer accidents, you can reduce liability issues, workers comp claims, and lost time/money resulting from employee injury.
So, while construction site security is often forgotten, it is certainly an essential part of smooth day-to-day operations. Consider if hiring construction site security guards for your next job site could prove advantageous for your business!
