STOP! THIEF! PROTECT YOUR TOOLS
As a construction business owner, you know that your tools are your livelihood. Losing them to theft can have a devastating impact on your business. The problem of tool theft is on the rise, and it’s important to take action to protect your tools and your business
The Growing Problem of Tool Theft
According to recent reports, tool theft is a growing problem in the UK construction industry. In London alone, tool theft has increased by 25% in the last year, with 34,712 tools stolen from January 2021 to October 2022.
Tradespeople are 10 times more likely to experience tool theft from a vehicle than from a building site, with powered hand tools being the most sought-after items by thieves. Only 14% of cases lead to the suspect being identified, and just 0.3% of cases ended in charges for suspects.
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Van Security
Thieves will often target vans as they know tools may be left in them overnight. It’s important to make sure your van is as secure as possible to stop you from losing your tools.
To protect your van and tools from theft, consider the following steps. Firstly, park in a secure location such as a car park with CCTV, or install a security post or barrier if parking on the street. Secondly, install additional locks such as deadlocks, slam locks or hook locks to provide an extra layer of security.
Next, keep your tools out of sight by using a bulkhead or racking system, installing an alarm or immobiliser can help to prevent theft and a GPS tracker can assist in locating stolen items. Remember, taking preventive measures is always better than dealing with the consequences of theft. Want to know more about protecting your vehicle and it’s contents? The Metropolitan Police have some additional advice here.
Tool Security
The good news is that there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of tool theft. One of the most effective measures is to focus on tool security rather than just vehicle security. Thieves often target vans because they assume that valuable tools are kept inside. By keeping your tools secure, you can reduce the risk of theft and protect your business.
There are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of having your tools stolen. One effective method is to mark your tools with a unique identifier, such as your company name, postcode, or house number. This makes it less attractive for thieves to steal and easier for police to recover if stolen. Using paint pens and clear lacquer spray can be an effective way to mark your tools overtly, you might even consider a hi-tech solution like SmartWater.
During working hours, it’s important to minimize small tools and equipment stored on site. Keep them locked away and out of sight when not in use. Provide lockable tool chests and steel storage containers and implement a sign-in/sign-out policy for small tools and equipment. Never leave small tools and equipment unattended when out on site, and remove or minimize them during weekends and long holiday periods.
Finally, maintain accurate records of your tools, including serial numbers, security markings, makes, and models. Keep a photographic database of all small tools and equipment and register them with a security and registration scheme such as Micro CESAR or Compact CESAR. If your tools are stolen, notify the police immediately and provide them with as much information as possible about the incident.
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GPS Tracking and Alarm Systems
GPS tracking and alarm systems are also great tools to help you keep your equipment secure. GPS tracking enables you to monitor the location of your tools in real-time, making it easier to recover them in case of theft. Alarm systems, on the other hand, provide an audible alert when someone attempts to steal your equipment, deterring thieves and alerting you to danger.
Get Insured
Even with preventive measures in place, tool theft can still happen. That’s why it’s important to have insurance that can protect your business against the financial impact of tool theft.
At FSB Insurance Service, we offer comprehensive insurance options that can provide financial protection for your business in the event of tool theft. Our policies can cover the cost of replacing your stolen tools and the cost of any business interruption caused by the theft.