24 Hour Emergency Response 604-644-9229 (BC) 780-995-9229 (AB) 416-628-3393 (ON)
24 Hour Emergency Response 604-644-9229 (BC) 780-995-9229 (AB) 416-628-3393 (ON)
Construction sites are vulnerable spaces where burglars and vandals can break in and destroy property or steal materials. Thousands of dollars of materials have already been stolen this year, prompting police across Canada to put out a warning. Protecting your space is an investment into your project, your business, and your future.
Setting up cameras, locks and other digital monitoring systems is one way to guard your construction site. But these digital devices can only record a crime in progress, not prevent it from happening. To keep your site as safe as possible, you’ll need an on-site security guard – someone with the training and expertise to respond to any situation. Finding the right fit for the job requires some thoughtful consideration and planning. You’ll want to know who you are hiring.
Here are some things to keep in mind as you search for a security guard for your construction site.
Do some online research and find out more about security guard companies in your area. Not every company offers the same level of protection and service. And not every company has experience with construction site security. While some basic security measures apply to all types of situations, construction sites can present some unique challenges. You’ll want to find a company that understands the risks and complications involved with protecting your site.
Hiring a security company that has experience protecting construction sites means they’ll be able to get right to work after you sign the contract. They won’t have to spend a lot of time putting together a plan or training staff. These professionals already know what to do and how to do it. You’ll get protection for your construction site right away.
Additionally, experienced construction site security guards already know what to watch out for and what signs indicate trouble. Inexperienced guards may have a steeper learning curve and not catch things the first time. Hiring guards that have worked construction sites before means your site won’t be a training ground where mistakes can happen.
However, before you sign a contract, it’s essential to know what the security company will provide. Once you’ve identified a few companies you might like to work with, call them up and schedule a meeting. It’s important to discuss your needs and expectations with them in a face-to-face situation.
During your discussions with the security company, be clear about your needs and expectations. Most construction sites have predictable schedules for security but you may also want some flexibility from your security company. Things can change in your industry, and you’ll need a company that can adjust quickly.
Understand how quickly you can have security guards at your site as deployment can differ from company to company. Some security businesses require weeks to put together a plan for your site, while others may be ready to go that very day.
Discuss what the protocol is if you need to change your security schedule. Some companies may need more notice than others to change your services or the number of guards at your site. You’ll need to be clear on what you need to provide and what you can expect as your project moves forward.
Scalability may also be essential for your site. Do you anticipate needing more or fewer guards as the work progresses? Be clear with your security company about your changing requirements. If they cannot adjust to your needs, you may want to find a company that provides more flexibility.
In the digital age, it’s easy to search for online reviews of companies to see what others have to say about their experience. Find out if the security company has a good reputation and consider the comments of past customers.
You may also want to ask the company for references. Contact past clients and ask about their experience working with the company. What did they like? What did they not like? What did they wish they knew before they hired the organization? Do they have any advice or suggestions for you?
Understanding how the business has conducted itself in the past and how it addresses customers’ concerns both online and in-person can help you determine if this is a company you’ll want to do business with.
Ask about the company’s plan for your construction site. Each security job is unique, and you’ll want to know how they will prepare to guard your site. Are there hard-to-monitor areas at your location? How will the security company keep an eye on those spaces? What are the best times to have on-site security guards? How many will you need to secure the site properly? Consider finding a company that has various options and tools so you can have comprehensive security coverage. It’s a good idea to ask them what they offer rather than go from a website, as some packages or services may no longer be offered.
Having a security presence on-site can impact other areas of your project, such as costs. For example, the amount of insurance you pay for the project is based on the perceived risk. Having security guards on-site will reduce the risk, and therefore possibly bring down your insurance costs.
You also need to consider other effects that security presence may have on your construction site. Will they need to set up special equipment? How long will that take? Having transparency with your security company will ensure that the experience is a positive one for both of you.
For more information about hiring a security guard for your construction site, call Optimum Security at 604-644-9229 or contact us here.
