Construction Site Security: Weekends vs. Weekdays

With so many construction projects taking place across Canada’s major cities 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. In this blog, we’ll explore how construction security needs differ between weekdays and weekends, and how to implement effective security strategies for both periods.

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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 guarded well, unauthorized individuals or vehicles may enter the site, posing a safety risk as well as a security risk.

Keeping Your 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.

There are a variety of on-site security guards who can be found on construction sites during working hours. Here’s an overview:

Uniformed security guards provide visual deterrence to potential thieves and trespassers while continuously monitoring the site for risks throughout the day and responding as needed. Uniformed security guards can be stationed at site entrances or exits to ensure that unauthorized individuals do not gain access to the job site while it’s in operation.

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 guards 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.

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 element of deterrence for would-be thieves and vandals, protecting the valuable contents of your site.

Similarly 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, evidence of theft, vandalism, or attempted break-ins is discovered, your mobile security guard will alert site management and law enforcement, if deemed necessary, as well as 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 action as needed.

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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.

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.

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