Construction Site Security: Are Traditional Security Cameras Enough?

In an era of rising theft, the efficacy of the construction site security cameras is under scrutiny. Join us as we dissect the real value and limitations of traditional surveillance solutions.

Theft in the construction industry has become a systemic problem, and it’s easy to see why. Most sites are unmanned at night and poorly lit. Add to that, they are loaded with highly coveted items, including copper, lumber, power tools and large equipment.

In total, construction sites in America collectively lose over a billion dollars in stolen equipment and material every year.

And then there are the hidden costs, including:

• Downtime: Every day your site is idle, you are losing money, and with some lost items, replacements can take weeks.
• Insurance: Thefts can lead to increased premiums and even cancellations if it’s determined your site wasn’t properly protected.
• Relationships: The residual effects of a construction site crime could damage relationships with your clients and your subcontractors, and even lead to lawsuits.

How should I protect my construction site?

Unquestionably, you need to have a construction site security plan in place, but what plan is right for you? Installing proper lighting and temporary signage are fast and cost-effective options but by themselves are not enough to scare off thieves.

On-site officers can be a strong deterrent but can also be pricey. And especially if your site is large and requires multiple guards.

Check out our article: Protect Your Investment with a Comprehensive Construction Site Security Plan.

What about rental cameras?

A lot of construction sites rent traditional surveillance cameras, which offer better protection than lights and signage, are significantly less expensive than on-site officers, and come in a variety of solutions and price points to meet your budgetary needs.

The main issue with legacy security cameras, however, is that they record crimes as they’re happening but they do not deter or prevent the crime from happening.

They provide “after the fact” evidence, which is helpful if the suspect is ever apprehended. But it very likely won’t get you your stolen items back.

Look for a security system that is monitored…and mobile!

What you need is a monitored security system that allows you to stop a crime before it happens, while also being flexible and durable enough to function in challenging and remote areas.

For construction sites, a portable, tower-based surveillance system may be the perfect option, and here’s why:

• They’re cost-effective, like traditional cameras, while offering real-time monitoring and response capabilities by trained surveillance operators.
• They’re rapidly deployable, able to be installed, often within a day.
• They’re mobile, allowing you to move your security from construction project to construction project, saving you the cost and hassle of buying a new system for each site.
• Here’s just one example of a tower-based surveillance system catching intruders in the act

Titan Virtual Guard: The optimal solution for protecting your construction site.

Titan’s portable surveillance solution, Virtual Guard, features our best-in-class, 24/7 video monitoring by a highly skilled team of agents, combined with highly effective security equipment:

• 121-decibel bullhorn talk down speakers
• Alarm systems and flashing lights
• Three smart IP cameras
• Adjustable masts
• Infrared cameras with a range of 130 feet in darkness

Get your free security consultation.

We’d love to hear from you to learn more about the security for your construction site and how we can help. To receive a free consultation, simply fill out this form, and a Titan rep will reach out to you shortly!