#SecureItKeepIt campaign: Construction Industry Federation and An Gardaí Síochána join forces to combat machine and tool theft

An Garda Síochána along with The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) are taking a proactive role in crime prevention in the industry which has historically has been targeted by criminals.

Building sites are by nature easy targets for criminals due to the types of materials, tools and machinery on site.

There has been a rise of approximately 25% in construction crime compared to this time last year. 

This can involve thefts from vehicles, burglary, unauthorised taking of vehicles, criminal damage and trespassing.

The main objective of the #SecureItkeepit campaign is to create and maintain awareness both within the industry and with the general public as to the importance of site security, and the security of plant machinery, construction equipment and materials.

 

Tips to help keep your site more secure:

• Set up CCTV if you are going to be on site for a prolonged period

• Good security lighting

• Fences or hoardings are effective and should be used whenever possible

• Keep the number of gates to site entrance to a minimum

• Localised temporary security alarms should be used.

• Control access to the site. Visitors must sign in and vehicle registration numbers given

• Cash should not be kept on site when possible

• Machinery should be left in a well-lit part of the site with the keys removed.

• Security locks and ground fixings are great for extra security

• Keep a record of engine numbers chassis number, vehicle ID numbers etc.

• Store your tools in a secure area.

• Photograph and mark all of your tools with a unique identification number and keep a record of it.

• Report all thefts and suspicious activity on sites to An Garda Siochana.

 

A garda spokesperson said: “Every year we encounter construction sites being targeted, but we have a few simple things that can increase security on site and prevent these crimes from happening. 

“The most important thing for anyone who owns tools and equipment is to keep them secure. 

“If possible, put some type of identify mark on them, take a photo and email it back to yourself so you have it forever. 

“Every year, An Garda Síochána recover hundreds of thousands worth of machinery and tools, most of which goes unclaimed.”

 

Examples of thefts at constructions sites from 2017:

• €30,000 worth of materials/equipment stolen from site

• €22,000 worth of tools stolen from van parked outside house

• €15,000 excavator taken from site

• €15,000 worth of tools stolen from van left on site

• €12,000 of scaffolding stolen at site

• €5,000 worth of copper cable taken from site

• €5,000 rock breaker stolen from site

• €4,000 generator taken from site

• €4,000 digger stripped of parts on site