Can you name a famous movie about construction? Such sites might get cameo appearances when someone asks if the construction site security monitoring is working, but rarely a full-length film. The original Die Hard comes to mind, using a partially constructed tower in Fox Plaza, but it is known as one of the best Christmas, not construction, movies.
As with the entire Die Hard franchise, realism is not the point. The truth is many construction sites still use traditional guard and camera configurations, but security guards can unfortunately only be in one place at a time. If checking the perimeter, they aren’t watching the cameras. When watching security cameras, they aren’t checking the perimeter. Even with multiple security guards, job site coverage is limited.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing construction sites, from what goes into surveillance camera systems and why they’re important to tips for how to set up the best one for your location.
What is Construction Site Monitoring?
Construction site monitoring uses technology to ensure it is protected against such events as site theft and vandalism, unauthorized access, and fire in real time. Whether it is video surveillance, thermal cameras, alarm systems, or motion detectors, construction job site security systems are essential for protecting building assets.
Every construction site is unique and has its own set of security challenges depending on the project’s size and location. Even the time to complete a project can have an impact on jobsite security. In broad terms, security threats revolve around:
- Physical Assets
Physical assets are the target of thieves and vandals.
- Operations
Damage to physical assets often results in lost time and resources while assets are being repaired or replaced.
- Human Safety
Damaged equipment may be unsafe to operate, or protocols may not be followed, increasing the chance of on-the-job injuries.
When considering construction site security, it is essential that these threats are kept in mind.
Why is Site Security Monitoring Important?
Construction losses as a result of theft average an estimated $1 billion per year, and fire is another of the most common accidents on a job site that results in loss of property and loss of time. Having fire and smoke detection devices installed and connected to an overall live video surveillance solution means companies can reduce the risk of catastrophic damages.
Protecting assets is not the only benefit of construction site security systems, though. Architects, engineers, and builders can realize cost savings and improve outcomes through the placement of a surveillance system.
Benefits for Architects
Security design is part of good building design and demands the effective use of space while preventing crime. Keeping security solutions in mind when designing a building helps with:
- Device Placement
How effective a security device is depends on where it is placed. Setting up a security camera system near a window can be problematic if the sun reflects off the camera lens, for example.
- Power Sources
Security systems require power. Knowing which devices will be used and where they will be placed can ensure that outlets are available wherever a sensor, video camera, or other devices may be located. This might also require considering solar-powered mobile surveillance solutions if power is not available.
- Surveillance
Architects should consider the performance of the security device in their design. If the device is used for intrusion detection, then it needs to be positioned appropriately. Every device has a specific purpose, and the building design should ensure it is met.
Architects who include site security in their initial designs will not have to alter their plans to accommodate devices, resulting in better outcomes for all stakeholders.
Benefits for Engineers
Given the scope of their responsibilities, site engineers need a construction site security system to ensure project management-related schedules stay on track and their workers are able to safely complete their jobs. This will both help secure the site, but it can also ensure the health and well-being of the workforce.
- Secure Sites
Placing live video monitoring equipment around perimeter fences of a job site can protect it against intruders. Electronic devices in critical locations throughout the area can serve to notify and record unauthorized access in real time.
- Monitor Health and Security
Surveillance equipment can monitor on-the-job behaviors. When employee actions or equipment performance appears compromised, reminders can be sent or repairs can be made, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Wiring
When architects include security devices such as video cameras in their plans, engineers have a clearer picture of wiring and cabling requirements. Running wire after construction can be a time-consuming task.
Engineers share in the architectural benefits of security monitoring systems such as device and outlet placement, but they also have their own set of benefits depending on job site requirements.
Benefits for Builders
Site security monitoring can save builders thousands just by reducing financial loss due to theft and vandalism. However, there are other benefits that builders can enjoy, such as the following:
- Reduced Insurance Premiums
Many insurance providers offer a rate reduction if a construction site has video surveillance.
- Improved Safety
Video surveillance systems monitor protocols to ensure they are being followed and to identify areas for added training.
- Protected Against Liability
Unfortunately, workers may be injured on the job, which may result in liability lawsuits. On-site security cameras can ensure that video evidence of events is available.
Building site security systems help secure equipment and materials and provide liability protection.
Working with Construction Site Monitoring Professionals
Setting up a proper construction security camera system involves more than just tossing cameras on buildings and plugging them in. A team of professionals should tour the location before any construction site cameras should be installed, making sure to identify where devices are needed. This includes:
- Walking the perimeter of the site to determine areas that need special attention because of blind spots.
- Inventorying valuable building materials and identifying where and how they will be stored.
- Determining personnel and vehicle ingress and egress routes.
- Identifying on-site buildings where foot traffic should be monitored.
Once the assessment is complete, security cameras, sensors, and other devices are installed to ensure remote monitoring is a seamless process. Arrangements should be in place for monitoring the CCTV feeds, especially after hours and on weekends.
Tap Into the Expertise of a Ready Resource
If you are an architect, engineer, builder, or construction site manager or owner in need of video surveillance options to keep your job sites, materials, staff, and projects safe, you need to work with a proven team of video monitoring experts. Mobile Video Guard has years of professional experience in the protection of construction sites using remote security monitoring systems. Contact us today to speak with one of our experts about the right construction site surveillance cameras and monitoring services for your building site. We are a ready resource to answer your security questions.
