Security systems such as access control and video surveillance can help protect workers and assets at construction sites against various crimes and hazards. This article takes a closer look.
Security is important to construction sites. Security systems such as access control and video surveillance can help protect workers and assets at construction sites against various crimes and hazards. This article takes a look at security solutions and best practices that can properly secure construction sites.
Why is construction site security important
Construction site security is important for several reasons. First of all, construction site security can help prevent theft and vandalism, which are known to happen at construction sites that are not properly secured. Secondly, construction site security can ensure project continuity, as disruptions and delays caused by criminal activities can be avoided. Thirdly, construction site security carries insurance benefits, as sites that are well secured may get lower premiums and better rates.
What are some security risks facing construction sites
Common risks facing construction sites include the following: vandalism and theft, whereby valuable properties at the site may be damaged or stolen; unauthorized access, which can create security threats for people working at the site; and other safety, fire and environmental hazards whereby poor security measures may lead to accidents, injuries, fires and pollution/contamination.
What security solutions are needed on a construction site
To reduce and minimize the aforementioned risks, physical security solutions are needed to properly secure construction sites. Below are some of the security technologies that can play a key role in construction site security.
Access control
Electronic access control systems are increasingly utilized at construction sites to prevent unauthorized entry. Some of the access control solutions include:
Key card systems: Authorized workers enter the site by tapping their card/keyfob at the reader. Besides security, the system can also serve as a time/attendance solution.
Biometrics systems: Biometrics can add an additional layer of security on top of keycards/password. The worker’s fingerprint or face may be used as the authenticator, and some argue that the face works better since construction workers’ fingers may get dirtied easily.
Turnstile and barriers: Electronic turnstiles can well prevent entry by unauthorized individuals. Turnstiles are often integrated with the access control system.
Visitor management systems: These systems digitize visitor management, making it easier for onsite staff to register and sign in visitors.
Video surveillance
Video surveillance plays a vital role in construction site security. It can detect abnormalities at the site and provide forensic evidence should an event happen, be it theft or vandalism. Below are some video surveillance solutions that can be effective at construction sites.
Wireless camera: Wireless cameras transmitting data via Wi-Fi or 4G/5G are ideal for construction sites where laying cables may be difficult. Also, cameras can work with video analytics,
artificial intelligence and even
generative AI to further ensure construction site security and safety.
Solar camera: Solar cameras are also ideal for construction sites where power supply may be limited.
Lowlight cameras: Cameras with strong lowlight capabilities can be useful for construction sites during the night or in areas where lighting is a challenge.
Cloud solutions: As opposed to on-premises solutions, cloud-based video surveillance solutions can operate with minimum onsite equipment such as NVRs and recording servers. This can help minimize space usage at the site and reduce the risk of video loss due to onsite incidents.
Alarms/sensors
Alarms and sensors can also help enhance construction site security. Among alarm and sensor products worth considering are: motion detection sensors, which detect movement within designated areas; door and window sensors, which trigger alarms when unauthorized access is detected; fire and smoke alarms, which work in conjunction with smoke and heat detectors to effectively prevent and respond to fires; environmental sensors, which include flood and temperature sensors to detect environmental abnormalities at the site; and panic alarms, which may be installed at strategic locations throughout the site to allow workers to alert security personnel in case of emergencies.
Other best practices and tips
Besides installing security systems, there are other best practices and tips that may be utilized to keep construction sites safe and secure. These include: conducting regular security assessments to identify vulnerabilities and address them proactively; providing comprehensive training on security protocols, including recognizing suspicious behavior and reporting procedures; using clear signage to indicate restricted areas, safety protocols, and emergency procedures; and establishing a communication plan for reporting security incidents or emergencies.
Conclusion
Security technologies and solutions play a vital role in keeping construction sites safe and secure. Construction sites face numerous security risks such as theft to vandalism. Security solutions make sure that those incidents can be avoided, thus giving peace of mind to all parties involved. Indeed, while some security solutions may be a bit costly to deploy, the eventual savings achieved through crime and vandalism reduction can well justify the investment.