Better Safe than Sorry

hile many of the features in Middle East Consultant have typically dealt with the processes required while working on high-value projects, the reality is that a great many project assets are actually tied up on the site itself - a fact that is increasingly important, as we see the shift from large-scale undertakings to today’s giga-projects.

Construction inevitably involves both the storage and on-going use of vehicles, materials, tools and machinery. In fact, increasingly so, as we see the drift towards more and more site mechanisation. Not only are site vehicles and advanced equipment extremely costly, it’s also a sad fact that the machinery, tools and fuel which can be stolen from vehicles all have a resale value and can be sold ‘down the line’. Statistically, this activity tends to take place not at the behest of hardened criminals, but will be managed by ‘inside’ contacts with the latest site information.

Another factor around site security is the risk of arson. According to multinational insurer Aviva PLC, around 40% of all construction site fires are started on purpose.

Whether fire or theft are involved, there are two problems consequent on any type of break-in. Firstly, the costs of replacement items and repairs. Secondly, the fact that loss of equipment can mean that the site is unable to work or function, leading to unwanted systemic delays - and therefore, to more costs.

The Threats In An Environment Of Poor Security

When site security is weak, the list of potential risks will include:

• Operations - disruption to operations through theft, vandalism and fire can cost millions of dollars per year.

• Property and materials

• Buildings and outbuildings.

• Structures under construction or demolition.

• Construction materials such as metal or cabling.

• Tools, equipment and vehicles.

• Fuel theft: this is surprisingly common: fuel can easily be reused and disappear without trace. Fuel spilled during theft is common and presents a real fire risk.

• Workers’ possessions and assets

• Lost life or injury - ripping out fixtures and leaving wiring unsafe, as well as deliberate actions such as arson.

• Property damage - expensive plant may be damaged in the process of the theft.

WHO’S LIABLE?

Regrettably, all of the above are only the ‘thin end of the wedge’. As well as the threats to operations, property and life, the actions of thieves who’ve gained access through inadequately secured sites threatens site owners or managers with liability for further loss and damage. For example, if powerful vehicles and MEWPs are stolen in order to gain illegal access to other buildings, and are then used to ram-raid retail premises, or gain high-level access to a building, this can lead to a whole raft of off-site liabilities. Similarly, construction companies can find themselves liable for accidents involving trespassers or as a consequence of trespassers compromising overall safety. This is often the case when sites are inadequately secured against trespass and vandalism. Construction sites can be particularly vulnerable to vandalism as part of general anti-social behaviour or specific, renegade rebellion against construction being carried out in the locality.

THE ON-SITE CHALLENGES

Construction sites present highly particular security challenges:

• Busy sites mean constant movement and traffic. With workers being focused on their own areas and tasks, the site may be vulnerable to opportunists who can walk in unchallenged to help themselves, or enter the site to check out the layout, value of assets and presence (or not) of onsite security, in order to plan their later return for a well- organised theft.

• A Golden Rule is that ‘more access points mean more risk’. A variety of access points are often needed, for vehicles, construction site workers and for authorised visitors, such as managers and building control. Access points and arrangements may constantly change as work progresses and may be particularly vulnerable as phases of work move on. It’s vital that these are logged proactively and the necessary security measures put in place and enforced.

• Movement and storage of vehicles can be a challenge to secure in a cost-effective and safe manner.

The Role Of Risk Analysis

It goes without saying that thorough and consistent risk analysis is essential for the site and should reflect physical security, operational security and changes across each phase of work. So:

• Protocols should be put into place to reduce risks identified in the risk analysis.

• Limiting access, both to vehicles and visitors on foot, is essential in reducing opportunity for unauthorised access. Numbers should be limited and only authorised vehicles and persons present - no one, including site workers, should be able to access a site through an open entrance.

• Vehicles temporarily not in use should never be left unattended with keys in the ignition. All keys should be signed in and out and vehicles not in use should be locked in a separate parking area or garaged on-site. All plant should be fitted with immobilisation devices and tracking.

Security Systems

There are six key types of ‘active security’. These are:

• CCTV, alarm systems and signageincluding highly visible systems which offer remote monitoring and recording both as a deterrent and a quick alert to problems arising. Warning signage and out-of-hours security contact information are essentials.

• Access control - as well as minimal access points, this includes installing suitable, industrial security gating so that gates cannot be simply unhinged after hours.

• Lighting - as both a visible deterrent and aid to security. Lighting can particularly protect access points and should be fitted in a secure way so that it cannot be disabled by intruders.

• Fencing and barriers - the UK’s Security and Resilience Industry Suppliers Community (RISC) recommends construction sites install site perimeter security of at least 2.4 metres high. Additional security can be gained by deploying:

• Barriers within the site to create separately secure areas.

• Anti-climb, palisade and/or welded mesh fencing, as these reduce access through climbing and makes intruders visible.

• Locks - sites should include lockable storage such as steel tool vaults and containment so that all equipment, tools, metals and materials can be secured out of sight overnight and when not in use, to reduce visible temptation to opportunists. Fuel stores should also be adequately protected, to prevent both theft and possible use as part of an arson attack. All access points should be lockable after hours, using tamper-resistant methods.

• Scaffolding or MEWPs - both are resources often used by criminals to gain further access to property. All types of scaffolding and MEWPs should be locked away when not in use. MEWPs using e-motors should have charging points within a secured area, not out in the open.

The Human Element

An on-site person or team is an invaluable prerequisite for site security, and for managing key protocols - even in these days of remote CCTV monitoring. A person or team can be responsible for the following:

• The provision and monitoring of risk management, assessment and Health & Safety protocols.

• Manned guarding - with guards who are suitably qualified and hold a current

UAE municipality-approved licence. 24-hour guarding is probably essential for larger sites, whilst smaller sites may find mobile patrols or dog security more appropriate.

• Entry and exit monitoring.

• Locking away and security marking of plant, tools and equipment.

• Key use protocols.

• Managing and operating technology which supports security, such as setting alarms and automated systems (particularly important as the site develops, and areas become additionally or differently vulnerable).

One last point: it’s truism that no amount of security will do any good if people are not kept fully informed about how it works and what’s expected of them. Notably, site managers and workers should always share full involvement in the development of site security, since they are more aware of the risks and opportunities than anyone else. Then, they should not only be made aware of all the systems and protocols (both in online and hard copy memos), but take responsibility for using these properly at all times.

Article prepared with thanks to the UK’s Safesite Facilities Ltd.