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[show]With metal theft a growing threat, WCCTV’s security experts have provided top tips for protecting infrastructure sites and vacant properties.
Why is Metal theft on the rise?
Metal theft is a growing problem, costing the UK approximately £360 million annually, 57% of these thefts related to the infrastructure sector.
The International Monetary Fund reported that metals prices had increased by 72% compared to the pre-pandemic level, with copper alone up 89%.
This cost increase, alongside the challenging economic environment, has seen a rise in claims.
With metal theft a growing threat, our security experts have provided top tips for protecting infrastructure sites and vacant properties.
Metal Theft Statistics
Across England and Wales, rates of metal theft are at a record high, with reports from the Office for National Statistics noting:
- Over 19,000 metal theft offences were recorded in 2021
- 17,446 of these cases were infrastructure-related
- On average, there are 37 incidents of metal theft per month
Most worryingly, these are just the thefts reported to police or insurers. The true number could be much higher.
Tips to Protect Your Sites and Buildings from Metal Thieves
At WCCTV, we firmly believe that managed CCTV cameras are the most effective solution for securing infrastructure sites and properties.
But while cameras are incredibly effective, there are several basic measures you can take to limit your risk of metal theft:
- Perimeter fencing: Fences make it difficult for opportunist thieves to access your sites out of hours.
- Take care when building works are in progress: Removing building equipment and ladders at the end of each shift prevents thieves from using these as an easy way to access your site.
- Installing temporary lighting: Light can help deter thieves; however, ensure any lights you install are positioned in a way that does not obscure any security cameras you have in place.
- Installing mobile CCTV cameras: Highly visible, rapid deployment CCTV systems work best for construction sites. They are easily moved, so as the site progresses and the camera position needs to change, they can develop with your site.
We recently published our Comprehensive Guide to Construction Site Security, which looks at best practices for securing a construction site. Download our free eBook, A Comprehensive Guide to Construction Site Security, below.
Managed CCTV Cameras for Remote Site Security
We supply our own manufactured Rapid Deployment CCTV Towers supported by a comprehensive service that includes a site survey, equipment installation, regular maintenance, remote video monitoring, proactive response and monthly reporting.
We can provide our CCTV systems regardless of your onsite power and internet availability, as they are completely autonomous solutions.
Ready to find out how Rapid Deployment CCTV can work for you? Get in touch today at 0800 470 4630 or request a call back
Daniel Del Soldato
Head of Communications
Daniel has been at Wireless CCTV over 10 years and has accumulated a vast wealth of knowledge when it comes to CCTV products and the way they operate. In his spare time Daniel likes to listen to music, watch football and spend quality time with his family.
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