How Security Guards Protect Construction Sites During the Holidays

While construction site workers may take a break during the holiday season, thieves do not. Construction site security is necessary during holiday closures as absent workers and unattended valuables make sites vulnerable to theft and vandalism. In this blog, we’ll discuss how security guards maintain construction site security during holiday shutdowns.

Blackbird Security Vancouver construction site security guards

Why Do Construction Sites Need Security Over the Holidays

Construction site theft rises when workers are absent, and this issue is compounded during holiday closures. With sites shut down for up to two weeks at the end of the year, sites are at a serious risk of theft and vandalism. The combination of absent workers, reduced neighbourhood activity, and extended nighttime hours during winter creates optimal conditions for criminals and bad actors to commit crimes.

Risks Unprotected Construction Sites Face

The high values of materials like copper, lumber, tools, and other construction equipment make unprotected sites targets for thefts. The price of lumber has increased an astonishing 300% since April 2020, and copper has almost doubled in the same period. To make matters worse, thefts are experiencing an upward trend across Canada. Stolen materials and damaged equipment can lead to expensive delays and costly replacements, which are the last problems any construction company wants to return to in the New Year.

How Security Guards Safeguard Construction Sites Over the Holidays

Construction site security guards conduct key duties that ensure the continued protection of construction sites during holiday closures. Here’s a breakdown of on-site security guard duties:

Site Foot Patrols

Uniformed security guards regularly patrol the perimeter of the construction site, inspecting fences, gates, and access points. They check that all entry points are properly secured and monitor closely for signs of tampering or attempted break-ins.

Guards also look for maintenance and weather-related issues that could compromise the site’s perimeter, such as fallen trees, wind damage to fencing, and snow obstructions or piles.

Checking CCTV Cameras and Lighting

Working CCTV cameras and lighting are essential during holiday breaks. Construction security guards will ensure the operationality of all cameras on the site, as well as floodlights and light fixtures. If any issues are found, guards will make a report and coordinate with maintenance and repair personnel to resolve them quickly.

Equipment Protection

During holiday shutdowns, construction site security guards pay close attention to areas storing equipment and materials. Guards verify that all machinery is properly secured, storage containers are locked, and there are no signs of tampering. This is particularly important for sites storing copper wire, lumber, tools, and other high-value materials targeted by thieves.

Access Control

Even during shutdowns, some construction personnel may need to access the site. Security guards check the identification of anyone attempting to enter the site and maintain a comprehensive visitor log. This prevents unauthorized access while allowing legitimate site visitors to perform essential maintenance, emergency repairs, or overtime work duties.

Reporting

Construction site security guards regularly maintain detailed reports of all patrols, maintenance issues, incidents, visitors, and site conditions throughout the holiday period. At Blackbird Security, our guards use the industry-standard reporting software TrackTik for all documentation and reporting.

TrackTik provides our clients and internal team with real-time updates accessed through our client portal. These live updates allow our clients an overview of the site during holiday closures and a comprehensive update upon their return in the new year.

Blackbird Security provides real-time security guard updates and on site incident reports using Tracktik technology

Does Every Construction Site Need On-Site Security Over the Holidays?

Sites in densely populated areas or neighbourhoods with a higher crime rate are more at risk than sites in more remote locations. For these higher-risk sites, an on-site security presence may be a necessity. However, all construction sites can benefit from security outside of working hours.

Mobile Security: Cost-Effective Holiday Protection

Mobile security patrols are an effective option for sites that don’t require an on-site security presence. These patrols are conducted on a randomized schedule throughout shutdown days, providing an unpredictable pattern that prevents criminals from gauging an optimal time to strike. Blackbird Security’s marked security vehicles are equipped with overhead flashing lights to further deter potential thieves and vandals.

Similarly to on-site foot patrols, mobile security guards conduct patrols and check key areas according to each construction site’s specific needs. Mobile patrols are also an effective overnight security solution for sites with on-site security presence during the day, ensuring round-the-clock protection.

Blackbird Security mobile patrol vehicle

Partner With Canada’s Best Construction Site Security Company

With major construction developments happening all across Canada, including in Metro Vancouver, the Greater Toronto Area, and Calgary, it’s more important than ever for construction leadership to consider security for their sites. Don’t leave your site open to vulnerabilities—invest in a high-quality construction site security partner and protect your investments.

Not sure if your site is high-risk? Get in touch with us through the form below for a consultation. Our team will develop a comprehensive security strategy for your site that addresses your unique needs.

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