Counteracting plant & equipment theft, now at an all-time high
According to new research1 by leading GPS vehicle tracker installer Trackershop, UK plant theft is at an all-time high. Statistics show that while plant and tool theft grew by 50% in the first few months of the pandemic, construction businesses continue to face increased levels of theft, with less than 10% of plant machinery ever recovered if not fitted with a tracker.
Trackershop says it has seen enquiries for trackers increase by 80% in the last 12 months. It believes machinery theft is now more of a threat than before the pandemic, with the problem showing little sign of decline. A further survey says that over two-thirds of its customers think machinery theft is more of a problem than before the pandemic.
Rather than relying on law enforcement and ineffective security measures, they say plant owners are now safeguarding their equipment with sophisticated state-of-the-art tracker technology. According to Trackershop owner Shaun Carse, “some reports claim more than £400 million worth of machinery is stolen in the UK every year – events have created a perfect storm, giving organised crime gangs more opportunity and impetus to target construction sites…”
He refers to events such as supply chain issues, the war in Ukraine, a shortage of construction workers, extreme weather events, project delays, the cost-of-living crisis, and increased materials and equipment costs.
Overall, the UK construction industry is estimated to lose more than £800 million per year, considering associated costs, including the cost of plant replacement, hire of replacement equipment, loss of business, and increased insurance premiums.
Shaun Carse stated, "Plant machinery is costly, easily sold for profit, and has historically been difficult to track and recover. Thefts within the industry are considered low risk due to the extremely small percentage of equipment ever being recovered." He further revealed that while theft is detrimental to all businesses, it has the worst effect on small to medium-sized enterprises, leaving them 'struggling to survive'.
While theft is on the increase, there are several steps that construction companies can follow to help reduce the risk of plant theft and they include:
Increased security
By installing gates, locks, fencing, CCTV, and motion lights, you are increasing your security. You could even consider hiring a nighttime security guard. If possible, lock away equipment, tools, and machinery inside secure containers or storage units when not in use. Regularly review, assess, and update security measures to stay ahead of potential thieves.
Up-to-date inventory
Mark or label tools, machinery, and equipment with unique identification marks or numbers; photograph or video your property; and keep an up-to-date inventory of all assets. This will make it more likely that your property will be returned to you if stolen.
Track equipment
Install GPS trackers on machinery and vehicles and register with programs like CESAR. Some trackers have built-in immobilisation, which alerts the owner right away if the item is moved and allows remote immobilisation of the machinery through the tracking app. Many customers use these trackers when leaving equipment unattended on-site or in storage. Trackers trigger an immediate response and, with advanced technology, are increasingly the most effective way to prevent theft of equipment.
Educate workers
Ensure all workers know their security responsibilities and have been trained in security measures. Make one person on-site responsible for site security and keep in touch with them regularly.
Have the right cover in place
Talk to us to ensure you are correctly insured and have the right level of coverage in place. As the cost of materials and equipment continues to rise, you may find your existing policy doesn’t cover the cost of replacement.
Talk to TMD
Our business is your protection, which means we can advise on the level of cover you need to have in place and take a look at your existing policy to make sure it provides the right level of protection. It’s essential to advise us of any changes that have taken place or if you have an additional plant that requires cover. If you need to make a claim, we offer a complete claims support service and will work hard on your behalf, liaising with insurers and loss adjusters to ensure we reach a speedy, satisfactory settlement.
To discuss your insurance, advise us of any changes obtain a quotation, or make a claim, please call the team at TMD on 01992 703 000 or email us at insurance@mcdonaghs.co.uk