How Many Security Guards Do I Need At My Construction Site?

Since 2020, the price of raw materials like copper and lumber has surged by 300%, driving up construction site thefts throughout Canada. Construction sites, which house a variety of high-value materials and equipment, are frequently targeted for crimes of theft and vandalism. Many sites rely solely on CCTV cameras and alarm systems, rather than on-site construction security guards. While these measures can deter criminal activity, they are more reactive than proactive. Utilizing security guards is a proven method of preventing crime before it happens and enhancing overall site security.

How many security guards does a construction site need? In this blog, we’ll explore the key factors site managers need to consider when determining the number of security guards required for their construction site.

Blackbird Security provides construction site security for sites in Vancouver Toronto Calgary Edmonton and across Canada

Understanding The Basics of Construction Security

The number of security guards required for a construction site depends on several factors, including the size of the site, the neighbourhood it’s located in, the presence and storage of valuable equipment and materials, and other security risks identified at the site. Sites can range from small areas needing minimal security to large complexes that require a more robust security presence.

Construction Security Presence for Smaller Sites

For smaller construction sites, such as for small, single buildings, typically one or two uniformed security guards are enough to maintain a secure environment. At small sites that don’t occupy a wide area of ground space, a pair of security guards will be able to cover the necessary areas of patrol and assist with any security issues that come up on site, such as unauthorized individuals attempting to gain access.

Construction Security Presence for Larger Sites

Larger construction sites, such as multi-structure complexes or large industrial projects, require a more comprehensive security strategy. Depending on the size, layout, and complexity of the site, up to 6 security guards may be required. Layout considerations include the vertical height or depth of the construction space, the storage locations of valuable materials, and the area of perimeter of the site.

The types of security guards typically found at construction sites are as follows:

Uniformed security guards: The guards conduct regular patrols of the site, monitoring key areas and ensuring all spaces and valuables are secure. Uniformed security guards can also oversee the delivery and receipt of new materials, ensuring that the handoff is conducted securely.
Front desk security guards: Large or high-profile construction sites may have a front desk for visitors to check in at. Front desk security guards keep a log of visitors and the times they visit the site, as well as monitor CCTV cameras in real time.
Gatehouse security guards: Very large sites may have a gatehouse, limiting vehicle access. Gatehouse security guards will log each visitor, check identification, and direct visiting vehicles to their destinations.
Additional security support: Extra security guards may be needed to ensure total coverage of a construction site.

Overnight Protection For Construction Sites

The majority of construction site thefts occur between 6PM on Friday and 6AM on Monday. This fact highlights the importance of overnight and weekend security coverage. A cost-effective and flexible means of protection during these vulnerable hours is mobile patrol security.

Blackbird Security mobile security guards patrol using marked security vehicles equipped with flashing lights. Patrols can be scheduled at random intervals, preventing criminals from gauging the best time to commit a crime. This provides not only a strong element of deterrence, but also valuable peace of mind. Should an alarm be triggered at any point, the Blackbird Security 24/7 Control Centre team will immediately deploy the nearest mobile security guard to assess the situation and take action.

Factors to Consider

When deciding how many security guards you need for your construction site, consider the following factors:

Location and Crime Rate

Construction sites located in high-crime areas are more vulnerable to criminal incidents including theft, vandalism, and vagrancy, increasing the need for a greater number of security guards. Additionally, sites located near busy streets and public transit hubs may face higher risks.

Value of Equipment and Materials

If your site has a large volume of expensive machinery, tools, or materials, more security guards may be required to protect these assets. How and where materials and equipment is stored on site, such as within indoor lockups vs outdoors, can impact security needs.

Level of Activity

High numbers of workers, subcontractors, and site visitors entering and exiting the site can complicate security oversight, necessitating more security guards to monitor activities. Sites with frequent deliveries and large volumes of traffic may require additional guards to manage and monitor access points.

Site Access Points

More access points means more guards are needed to monitor and control entry and exit effectively. Sites with numerous visitors and vendors may require additional front desk and uniformed security guards.

Security Risks and Vulnerabilities

The right security company should conduct a security audit to identify particular risks, such as previous incidents of theft or vandalism, and adjust security guard numbers accordingly. As part of the audit, a security company will examine the condition of fences, gates, and lighting around the perimeter, all of which will impact the number of guards needed.

Insurance and Regulatory Compliance Requirements

Some insurance policies or regulations may require a minimum number of security personnel, which can impact decision making. Depending on your area, local laws and regulations may be in place regarding security staffing for construction sites. Be sure to carefully review these regulations during the security acquisition process.

Partner With Canada’s Best Construction Security Company

Determining the right number of security guards for your construction site is essential to maintaining a secure environment and preventing theft or vandalism. Whether you need a single guard for a small site or a team of several for a large project, having the appropriate security presence is key to safeguarding valuable assets and ensuring smooth operations.

At Blackbird Security, construction site security is one of our specialties. We are currently securing the new Oakridge Park development in Vancouver, as well as a number of other developments throughout major Canadian cities including Toronto, Calgary, and Edmonton. Contact us using the form below to find out how we can enhance the security of your construction site.

In addition to construction security, we provides services in the following areas: