Incidents of vehicle theft continue to rise year over year in Canada, with Ontario being a province favoured by crime rings. The rise in vehicle theft does not only apply to personal vehicles, as thieves target more than your SUV. Thieves are also stealing high-value construction vehicles and equipment. Studies show that construction vehicle and equipment theft costs Canadians an estimated $46 million yearly, with most incidents occurring in Ontario.
The sad reality is this unfortunate phenomenon shows no indication of slowing down. Incidents of construction theft continue to increase, with only 25% of all stolen equipment recovered.
Equipment theft increases while recoveries decrease
Construction equipment can be surprisingly easy targets for criminals. This results primarily from worksites lacking adequate security measures to deter thieves from targeting their sites. Worse yet, some construction sites lack security altogether. Organized criminals are often the perpetrators of this type of crime. They frequently steal construction equipment with the intention of selling it illegally overseas. Once the equipment makes its way to a shipping container, it becomes increasingly difficult to track and recover.
Additionally, construction sites are often full of staff from several companies, meaning there is a constant inflow and outflow of sub-trades and subcontractors on the worksite. This can add a layer of difficulty in spotting prowlers. Without security measures, construction worksites left unattended for periods of time (evenings, weekends, and holidays) are at high risk.
How can you protect your business from construction equipment theft?
Being vigilant is not a one-person job, and gating alone isn’t necessarily a guarantee. Fortunately, there are many ways that may help protect you and your business from construction equipment theft:
- Company-wide security procedures should apply to all employees and visitors (e.g. subcontractors) and executed as a daily operations procedure.
- Undertake thorough background checks for all individuals who can access the job site, such as employees, sub-trades and subcontractors.
- Keep up-to-date records on current inventory. Detailed records should be a part of daily due diligence.
- Record all pertinent information relating to your tools and equipment, including:
- Serial number;
- Year, make and model;
- Date purchased, cost and proof of ownership;
- Any markings, logos, or other details that help with identification;
- Recent photos of each unit/tools/equipment.
- Lock doors and never leave keys unattended.
- Park in well-lit areas.
- Install a TAG® Tracking System: Installed at the expense of the vehicle owner, a TAG® tracking system installs multiple wireless devices throughout your vehicle that allow it to be tracked anywhere in North America. If your vehicle is stolen, TAG® offers 24/7 support to recover the vehicle.
- Secure and store equipment in a place with controlled access.
- Ensure the engine compartment area is locked or held in a secure position.
- Hire security and install alarm systems – visible or audible warning devices to deter thieves.
- Install steering column collars or steering wheel and brake pedal locks. Locks for tracks, cylinders, fuel caps, wheels, hitches, and pins are also available.
- Install wheel boots or hydraulic lock-out systems.
- Ensure VIN or serial numbers are on the windows and parts of all equipment. If you purchase new equipment, inquire if your dealer can offer this service as many do.
- Utilize smart keys or a key transponder system.
- Install cab control access code systems.
- Use fuse cut-offs or kill switches.
- To prevent “hot wiring” by installing starter and fuel disabler switches.
- Install GPS tracking systems and geo-fencing operations.
- Install motion sensor lighting and surveillance cameras that provide visibility for full yard coverage.
Construction theft can be costly for your business. As part of a strong risk management strategy, ensure your business applies security measures to your job sites. Replacing equipment comes at a high cost, and time spent attempting to recover stolen equipment is also costly. Applying these construction equipment theft tips can help protect your worksite and prevent you from becoming a statistic.
