Why Construction Site Security Needs An Upgrade

Meet Emerging Security Needs with a Tailored Surveillance Camera Solution

When thieves hit construction sites, they do more harm than just stealing tools, equipment, and materials—they steal precious time. When time is money, construction delays increase costs dramatically, cause aggravation, and longer timelines can truly affect communities.

For cat and dog parents in Indianapolis who need affordable veterinary care, the wait seemed endless. Noah’s Animal Hospital planned its grand opening for early 2024, but thieves and illegal dumpers made sure the clinic couldn’t serve pets in need until six months later. From people stealing air conditioning units, copper wire, and a contractor’s truck to others trashing unwanted items, including tires, concrete blocks, and even an 18-foot boat, the costs add up and put unexpected financial pressures on the organization.

“Every dollar that we have to spend fixing graffiti, pulling away boats that don’t belong there is that much less we can do to help the community in this area,” Noah’s Animal Hospital Director of Communications Tom Dock told WTHR-13.

The Rising Threat of Construction Site Theft and Its Costly Impact

Construction site theft is on the rise. In 2021, more than 11,000 thefts occurred at construction sites, more than those that happened at convenience stores, according to FBI Uniform Crime Reporting Program data. The National Equipment Register estimates the value of construction equipment stolen each year ranges between $300 million and $1 billion, with only 25% ever recovered. This figure only accounts for heavy machinery, not materials, like lumber or valuable metals, or smaller power tools.

Architects, contractors, and project managers facing this reality now must include theft as a line item in cost estimates. A principal with an architectural firm in Seattle said theft can add up to a 15% increase in total construction costs, while a real estate agent in Macon, Georgia, told WMAZ-13 that thieves likely stole $1000 worth of copper but caused $3 million in damage, ultimately requiring a complete gut rehab for the commercial property. In that case, thieves cut power to the security cameras, allowing them more time to strip the property.

“For context, construction sites are frequently trespassed and vandalized, which is why it is normal practice to pad project timelines and materials,” a Dallas Independent School District spokesperson told the Oak Cliff Advocate after thieves broke into a school construction project over a winter holiday break.

Innovative Security Solutions Tailored for Modern Construction Sites

Builders must consider different variables for every construction site. Combatting theft requires tailored solutions that work across projects in both rugged environments and urban areas, including how to:

• Increase job site security
• Create a perimeter to supplement physical fencing
• Manage job sites remotely
• Create time-lapse videos
• Augment security guard staffing
• Resolve liability claims
• Meet insurance requirements

In the past, project owners depended on manual surveillance, but this is no longer an effective or cost-effective solution. That’s where LiveView Technologies changed the game for construction site security. The company’s AI-integrated video monitoring and remote-managed capabilities, combined with its all-weather mobile security camera, deliver a specifically tailored solution for the construction industry. 

Cellular-enabled, solar-powered LVT Units, backed by the company’s proprietary LVT Platform, provide remote live monitoring, detection, and robust AI-powered analytics capabilities, for customers to respond to potential threats in real time. This allows people to determine the appropriate action, including contacting local law enforcement when necessary. The construction site security solution increases efficiency and eliminates the need for expensive on-site security staff.

Just watch an LVT Unit in action:

“We have millions of dollars worth of equipment in a very remote location,” David Boyden, the Managing Director of Salt Lake City-based Wohali Partners said. “It is a high target for general malfeasance, but because of LiveView Technologies, we have had zero vandalism.”

5 Advantages Of LVT’s Construction Site Surveillance Security Systems

There are many reasons to invest in LVT’s mobile construction site security systems. Not only do LVT Units provide asset protection leaders peace of mind, but they also offer:

• Fast and efficient deployment capabilities: Mobility has power. Wherever an LVT Unit is needed, it can be moved and positioned strategically as the security situation warrants.
• Advanced monitoring capabilities: LVT enhances construction site security with advanced monitoring technologies that provide real-time surveillance and intelligent alert systems. High-resolution cameras, thermal imaging, and night vision capabilities ensure that every corner is covered, no matter the hour. LVT Units also can be integrated with artificial intelligence and video analytics, providing intelligent monitoring and behavioral pattern recognition.
• Remote accessibility and control: LVT delivers an intuitive user interface for authorized personnel to remotely monitor live feeds, review recorded footage, and manage alarms from any internet-connected device. This accessibility allows users to respond to potential threats fast, make proactive decisions, and solve resource allocation challenges.
• A versatile and scalable solution: LVT Units work in every environment, from large, open areas on a city site to remote locations, they are customizable to secure specific sites. Since they are wireless, it’s easy to adapt to evolving security challenges by adding or relocating units as necessary.
• A cost-effective solution: Rather than investing in the infrastructure to install multiple fixed cameras, leverage fewer, yet strategically positioned, mobile units to maximize efficiencies and reduce upfront costs and long-term maintenance expenses.

LVT helps keep construction projects on track and on budget with its customizable, scalable solutions for remote construction site security. When it’s time to eliminate theft from your project’s scope and cost estimate, contact our team today for a demo.