Construction Site Security: Our Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

With so many construction projects taking place across Canada’s major citie, including Metro Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary, security is top of mind for many developers. Construction sites face security risks both during and outside of working hours, and if a site is left unprotected, these risks may be exploited by thieves and vandals, leading to expensive losses and delays.

Curious to learn more about construction site security? We’ve covered our most frequently asked questions surrounding construction site security in this blog. 

Why is Construction Site Security Necessary?

Without proper security measures, construction sites risk losses that can impact project timelines and budgets. Construction sites house valuable assets, including machinery, tools, materials, and copper wiring. These assets are prime targets for thieves, who most often strike between 6PM on Friday and 6AM on Monday when a site is unattended. During working hours, the primary risk is unauthorized access. If a site is not adequately guarded, unauthorized individuals or vehicles may enter, posing both a safety and security risk.

What Types of Security Guards Are Best for Construction Sites?

Safeguarding your warehouse or construction site from vandalism and theft requires a multifaceted approach. That’s why, at Blackbird Security, our highly trained professionals are committed to delivering exceptional customer service and implementing leading protection measures. This includes: 

Mobile Patrol Security: Our mobile patrol security teams conduct regular and unpredictable rounds across your site, deterring potential vandals and thieves. Their visibility and rapid response capabilities are crucial in maintaining a secure environment.

Foot Patrols: In addition to mobile patrols, our security professionals perform foot patrols to cover areas that may be inaccessible by vehicles. This comprehensive approach ensures every corner of your site is regularly monitored. Additionally, their identifiable uniforms dissuade criminal activity. 

Front Desk Security: Front desk security guards record visitor logs, check identification, and assist visitors with directions upon their arrival to the job site. These guards also monitor CCTV footage, ensuring an overview of the site throughout the day. 

Gatehouse Security: Security guards stationed at a large construction site’s gatehouse control vehicle access and direct deliveries to larger construction sites. They check driver identification before permitting entry and keep a log of each vehicle that comes into the site. 

At Blackbird Security, all of our security guards receive advanced training through our in-house training program, Blackbird Academy. One of the courses our guards learn is Standard First Aid, providing vital support to site staff in the event of a medical emergency. Through our training program, our guards also learn peaceful de-escalation training, crisis management training, fire safety training, and report writing. These skills are incredibly helpful on construction sites and contribute to a safe and secure working environment. 

How Do I Ensure Security On My Construction Site?

Ensuring security on a construction site involves a multi-layered approach. This can include physical barriers like fencing and gates, surveillance systems (CCTV), alarm systems, access control measures, adequate lighting, and strategically deployed security personnel. Mobile patrol security is a crucial component of this comprehensive strategy, providing a dynamic and responsive layer of protection across the entire site.

What Is the Role of Mobile Patrol Security?

Mobile security patrols provide a flexible and wide-ranging security presence. They conduct regular, but often unpredictable, checks of the property perimeter and key areas, deterring criminal activity, responding to alarms or incidents, and providing detailed reports of their observations. They act as a visible deterrent and a rapid response unit, covering areas that static guards might not be able to monitor as effectively.

What Are the Patrolling Techniques for Security?

Security patrolling techniques can vary depending on the site and specific security objectives. Common techniques include:

• Random patrols vary the timing and routes of patrols to maximize unpredictability.

• Clockwise/counter-clockwise patrols follow a consistent perimeter route in either direction.

• Zone patrols divide a site into specific zones and focus patrol efforts within each zone.

• Directed patrols focus on areas identified as high-risk or experiencing recent security issues.

• Foot patrols allow for closer inspection of specific areas, often used in conjunction with vehicle patrols.

Mobile patrols often utilize a combination of these techniques, leveraging their vehicle to cover large areas efficiently while also conducting foot patrols in specific zones as needed.

How Can I Keep My Construction Site Protected on Weekdays and Weekends?

Construction sites require different approaches to security for weekday working hours and weekend off-hours. While active worksites require on-site security personnel, mobile patrols are an effective solution for sites during weekends and overnight. 

Weekdays: On-Site Security

On-site security guards are essential for maintaining site security and safety during working hours. Construction sites located in busy, high-foot traffic areas, or areas with an elevated crime rate, are more likely to need increased security than sites located in quieter areas due to increased risk. 

Security guards, front desk security guards, and gatehouse security guards are all necessary during working hours on weekdays to ensure the security of your construction site and smooth operations. 

Weekends: Mobile Security

Since most construction site thefts occur during weekend periods, it’s critical for site management to provide security against theft during these vulnerable hours. Mobile security patrols are a cost-effective security solution for construction sites that don’t require a 24/7 on-site security presence. Patrols can be scheduled at random intervals, preventing thieves from gauging a time to break into the site. Additionally, Blackbird Security’s fleet of marked security vehicles is equipped with flashing lights. This, combined with an unpredictable patrol pattern, provides a strong deterrent for would-be thieves and vandals, protecting the valuable contents of your site. 

Similar to standard security patrols, security guards on mobile patrol will perform checks on the site to ensure the site’s continued security, including the perimeter, any locked boxes or secured areas, material storage spaces, and tools and machinery. If any evidence of damage, theft, vandalism, or attempted break-ins is discovered, your mobile security guard will alert site management and, if deemed necessary, law enforcement, and will also write a detailed incident report.

Mobile patrols also assist with alarm response, providing a crucial layer of protection in the event of a triggered alarm. Should an alarm sound, a member of the Blackbird Security 24/7 Control Centre team will immediately dispatch the nearest mobile patrol guard to investigate the situation and take necessary action.

How Much Security Does My Construction Site Need?

Each construction site presents a unique set of challenges and security requirements. Understanding the factors that determine the level of security required is crucial for developing an effective security plan that addresses specific risks and vulnerabilities. Here’s an overview of factors that will determine how many security guards your construction site requires:

1. Size of site

The size of your construction site has a direct impact on security requirements. Larger sites, such as condominium development sites, with multiple entry points, a large footprint, and expensive equipment and materials on site will require more extensive security coverage than smaller sites.

2. Area crime rate

The crime rate in the surrounding area is important to take into consideration when assessing security needs. Construction sites located in high-crime areas are more susceptible to security incidents and may require heightened security measures to mitigate risks effectively. On the other hand, sites located in areas of minimal criminal activity will likely not require as robust a security presence.

3. Level of activity

Sites situated in busy urban areas with high foot traffic may require enhanced security measures to manage access points and prevent security incidents. 

4. Value of assets

The value of assets, including materials and tools, on-site is important to consider when determining your construction site’s security needs. Sites with high-value assets are targets for theft or vandalism and require enhanced security measures to protect against threats, including overnight mobile security coverage in some cases.

Does My Construction Site Need 24/7 Security?

The answer depends on your site's specific needs. While on-site security guards are essential during working hours, mobile security patrols provide effective protection during nights and weekends. This approach balances comprehensive security with cost-effectiveness. Sites located in high-foot traffic or high-crime areas benefit from increased security and may opt for a more thorough security strategy, including frequent overnight patrols or static on-site security. 

How Can Mobile Patrol Security Protect My Construction Site?

Mobile security patrols play a vital role in addressing key security concerns prevalent on construction sites. Their presence helps deter theft of valuable tools, equipment, and materials; prevents vandalism and damage to property; and reduces the risk of trespassing and unauthorized access. The visibility of a marked patrol vehicle and the knowledge that regular checks are being conducted can significantly contribute to a safer and more secure environment for your project.

Enhanced Deterrence Through Unpredictability

One of the most significant advantages of mobile security patrols is their unpredictable nature. Unlike static security guards who remain in fixed positions, mobile patrol units conduct random and varied visits to your construction site. This element of surprise acts as a powerful deterrent to potential criminals. Knowing that a security vehicle could appear at any time makes it much riskier for thieves or vandals to attempt any illicit activity. This constant, yet unpredictable, presence creates a heightened sense of security across the entire site, far beyond the limited visual impact of fixed security points.

Comprehensive Site Coverage of Expansive Areas

Construction sites can often be large and sprawling, making it challenging and costly to station security guards at every potential entry point or vulnerable area. Mobile security patrols provide a cost-effective way to achieve comprehensive site coverage. 

These units can efficiently patrol the entire perimeter, check on various zones, and access areas that might be difficult for one or two static guards to monitor effectively. Their mobility allows them to cover vast distances and ensure that all corners of your construction site receive regular security checks, maximizing visibility and minimizing blind spots.

Rapid Response Capabilities to Security Threats

In the event of a security breach, alarm activation, or any other incident on your construction site, mobile security patrols offer a rapid response capability. Unlike static guards who may be limited to their assigned post, mobile units can be dispatched quickly to investigate and address the situation. Their ability to move swiftly between sites allows for timely intervention, potentially preventing further damage, apprehending suspects, and coordinating with local law enforcement if necessary. This quick response can be critical in minimizing losses and ensuring the safety of your site and assets.

Cost-Effective Security Solution Compared to Static Guards

Maintaining a round-the-clock presence with multiple static security guards can be a significant expense for construction companies. Mobile security patrols offer a more budget-friendly alternative while still providing effective security coverage. By strategically scheduling patrol visits at key times and intervals, you can achieve a strong security presence without the overhead costs associated with numerous full-time static positions. This allows you to allocate your security budget more efficiently while still benefiting from regular and responsive security checks.

Detailed Reporting and Enhanced Accountability

Mobile security patrols are equipped to provide thorough and detailed reports of their activities and any observations made during their rounds. Utilizing technology like GPS tracking and digital reporting systems, such as TrackTik, these patrols can document the exact times and locations of their checks, any issues encountered, and any actions taken. This level of detailed security reporting provides you with valuable insights into the security of your construction site, ensuring accountability from the security team. These reports can identify patterns, highlight vulnerabilities, and inform adjustments to your overall security strategy.

Partner With Blackbird Security to Protect Your Construction Site

Each construction site has its own needs and considerations to take into account when planning a security strategy. Our experts at Blackbird Security are here to help you strategize the most effective plan for your security needs. Ready to get started? Get in touch with us using the form below to learn how we can protect your site during both weekday operations and weekend hours.