Everyone can agree that deterring theft is far better than trying to recover stolen equipment. Although it may be impossible to stop a determined thief from stealing, there is much that can be done to deter it. If your equipment is better protected than the next person’s, then a thief will move onto the easier target. This article will focus on practical measures you can take to protect your equipment.
Lock Up Your Machines
Battery theft in machines like scissor lifts is a growing problem. At the end of the day, turn off the master switch and put a padlock on it. Park the battery door side up next to a permanent structure. Take the control box and lock it up separately. Just following these simple tips can help a lot and make your return to the job site the next day go as planned.
Site Security
It’s difficult to achieve perfect security on a project wither the “worksite” moves every day. Even in these cases, there are simple measures that can be taken to help.
Fencing – The first line of protection is always going to be a good fence. Keep these things in mind when considering security fencing for your work site.
- Use see-through material like chain link fencing that allows thieves to be visible from the outside.
- Keep fenced areas free of bushes or debris
- Fences should be 8ft high if possible
- Post warning signs like "No Trespassing."
Lighting – One of the most valuable deterrents to theft is lighting. It’s low cost, flexible, and can be integrated with other security devices.
Anchoring and Immobilizing Equipment
Anchoring equipment with a chain or cable is another effective deterrent. Removing wires or the battery and lowering blades and buckets can immobilize large equipment. Smaller items, which are more likely to be targeted, can be secured by positioning larger items to make access impossible.
Key Control
Make it a company policy that keys be removed from equipment when they're not in use or being stored. Make note of who has access to or is assigned keys. You may even consider a “Key Sign-Out Log” to help keep track of keys. After hours, all keys should be secured in a safe or lockable area.
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