Top 10 tips to Secure Your Work Site Over the Summer Break

Summer’s here, and while most of us are looking forward to a long, leisurely break, a special class of thief might just be gearing up for the busiest time of the year!

The summer break is peak season for those who specialise in stealing equipment and materials from work and construction sites. Whether you’re a solo builder working on a single house, or responsible for a construction site employing hundreds, it’s vital to secure your site over the break.

So, before your site shuts down over the holidays, look at your site through a potential thief's eyes. How hard would it be for someone to break in, and what would they be able to get away with?Kennards Hire equipment offers a range of specialist site and security equipment to ensure:

• You don't lose equipment or materials
• You're ready to fire up again in the New Year with no down time
• Your site doesn't become a safety hazard to others

Here's the top 10 things to consider before your site shuts down.

1. Maintenance Support

On-site equipment maintenance checks before shutdown ensures all hired equipment is in good condition to avoid delays upon reopening, particularly applicable for long-term hires providing confidence that your equipment remains operational.

2. After Hours Service

Sometimes emergencies or last-minute needs arise, even outside of regular operating hours. That’s where Kennards Hire's After Hours Returns service comes in. Kennards Hire now offers an After Hours returns at selected branches throughout our network. Providing you with access any time of the day, night, or weekend, means you don’t have to worry about returning equipment when the branches are open.

3. Site Security Cameras

Modern security cameras are an invaluable tool for keeping your work site secure over the summer break. By providing real-time surveillance, cameras deter potential thieves and help you monitor the site remotely. Opt for a solar-powered CCTV system with remote access capabilities, like the one available from Kennards Hire, which includes sensor lights to further enhance security. These systems allow you to check in on your site from anywhere, offering peace of mind throughout the break. Visible cameras not only act as a deterrent but also provide evidence in case of an incident, ensuring your site is well-protected even when you’re away.

4. Fencing

Temporary security fencing is your first line of defence against a light-fingered mob. You can’t stop someone who is determined to cut through security fencing, but signs of security will slow them down, and fencing makes it more difficult for them to remove tools and vehicles. Fencing, as a physical barrier, can be enough to deter would-be thieves.

You can go with thick mesh fencing or use hoardings to hide what’s on site. Use heavy chains to secure entry gates and prevent ram raiders.

5. Secure storage

Ensure all loose equipment is locked away out of sight in a site shed or container.

Large plant or earth moving equipment should be stowed in such a way that it’s difficult to access. Always leave boom lifts in the up position so they can’t be accessed without a key.

Secure keys or store them off site (make sure it’s somewhere you’ll be able to recall at the end of your holiday!).

With many building materials in short supply, it’s best to remove timber and other materials from smaller construction sites over the summer break.

6. Lighting

Thieves like to operate in the dark. Use light towers to illuminate your site at night and sensor lights for extra security. Kennards Hire can supply LED solar powered lights with timers so you don’t waste power during the day.

Ask the team at Kennards Hire about this flexible lighting system which can be viewed remotely. 

7. Return Hire Equipment

If you have hire equipment out for a lengthy period, contact your local Kennards Hire branch. They provide an ‘off hire’ service if your work site is going to be closed for a lengthy period. They will pick up the equipment until you return – or ’stand it down, leaving it on-site but not charging you until you return to work.

8. Stoor all loose equipment

Properly storing all loose equipment minimises the risk of theft, vandalism, and damage caused by adverse weather conditions, which are common during the holiday season. Additionally, unsecured items can become hazardous if left exposed, posing dangers to the public and increasing liability for the project. 

And remember your neighbours. Tie down loose materials such as timbers and sheets of iron that could become a hazard in a storm.

9. Prepare for Emergency Response

Prepare a clear emergency response plan by updating and distributing an emergency contact list, including key personnel, security services, and local authorities. Ensure alarm systems are connected to 24/7 monitoring for swift incident response. Brief stakeholders on protocols and assign responsibilities to ensure any emergencies are managed efficiently during the holiday period.

10. Post-Shutdown Readiness

Early access for start-up arrangements to have equipment ready and delivered on-site before work resumes to avoid delays is a prudent way to ensure your project is ready to start on day one without delay. 

Talk to the team at your local branch of Kennards Hire about equipment to secure your work site over the summer break. And once you’ve done all that, enjoy your break!