Construction sites are complex and none are the same. Where one site may suit one CCTV system, another may not be able to utilise this.
You cannot approach security with a one solution suits all mindset, and for many, selecting the cheapest option could unknowingly be harming your construction site rather than supporting it.
We explore the various construction site CCTV systems available to you and discuss the best options based on the factors your project is faced with.
What are the Best Options for Construction Sites When it Comes to CCTV?
All construction sites are unique and present different types of security challenges, but protecting your assets and plant machinery from theft, and preserving the safety of your workers is critical on every site you manage.
CCTV cameras are one of the most popular forms of security, due to their effectiveness and budget-efficiency, but what are the best options when it comes to CCTV for your Construction Site?
There is a broad range of CCTV cameras you can choose from, static, fixed, PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom) and IR (Infrared) to name a few.
When it comes to construction sites, we believe that the most beneficial offerings are Redeployable CCTV Cameras and CCTV Towers. Let's take a closer look into the camera options available, and why Redeployable Cameras are best:
What are the Different Types of CCTV Cameras for Construction Sites?
As mentioned earlier, there are lots of different types of CCTV Cameras that can be used for construction site security, including:
- Static - A static camera represents a camera that remains completely still whilst filming, with no PTZ capabilities, meaning it cannot zoom into or enhance its view any further.
- Fixed - A fixed camera is one that is mounted into a stationary position. These are not mobile units and offer no PTZ capabilities.
- PTZ - A PTZ camera is a type of surveillance camera that has remote controls, allowing it to pan horizontally, tilt vertically and zoom in and out onto subjects or locations.
- Dome - A type of surveillance camera housed in a dome-shaped enclosure to provide discreet application, a wide field of view and to be placed in tight spaces.
- Bullet - A bullet camera is characterised through its elongated, cylindrical design, resembling the look of a bullet or lipstick.
- Infrared - An IR camera is a device that utilises thermal imaging to detect and visualise infrared radiation, which is the heat emitted from objects.
- ANPR - Known as an Automatic Number Plate Recognition camera, they use optical character recognition to read and identify vehicle license plates.
- Covert - Designed to be hidden or placed in discrete locations, covert cameras capture footage without alarming any subjects that may cause them to alter their behaviour.
- Fisheye - A fisheye camera utilises an ultra-wide-angle lens to capture a specialised, hemispherical view of the location.
- Night Vision - A night vision camera is a device that captures images in low or no-light conditions, using either IR or thermal imaging to provide visibility and recording in these situations.
- Wireless - A surveillance camera that transmits video and audio signals wirelessly through WiFi or data capabilities, insteading of relying on a wired connection to do this.
- Motion Detection - A motion detection camera is a security camera that records any movement, captures footage of this and triggers an alert if this occurs.
With such a varied range of cameras, it is often common for a combination of different CCTV cameras to be used on a construction site or to have various features built-in to a camera in order to provide this.
For cameras able to offer multiple capabilities in one, this is often due to them having additional input channels that allow them to combine or add cameras to work together. For example, a Dome camera with ANPR integration or a PTZ Dome camera.
As individual cameras, there is a high likelihood that you’ll face gaps in your security as their focus will be limited to that of what they have been designed for.
It’s important that before selecting a security provider or system that you establish the coverage you require as this will determine which systems will be suited to your project.
In most scenarios, an all-in-one solution will be preferred for convenience and cost-effectiveness.
Why are All-in-One, Mobile CCTV Popular With Construction Sites?
CCTV Cameras have been used for security on construction sites for years as they provide an added level of overall security for assets like, plant machinery, tools, materials and fuel.
However, as technology has developed, so have the offerings. Construction sites no longer need to choose between cameras or utilise multiple suppliers in order to meet their requirements.
Over recent years, there’s been a big shift in the camera types used and deployed by construction sites, with all-in-one, mobile CCTV systems now becoming one of the most popular options for construction sites.
Their wireless design, power autonomy and high-quality camera technology combines the essential features of security, and more into one unit, making them both convenient and more cost-effective than alternative solutions.
In fact, you can save up to 88% with mobile security systems such as CCTV Towers compared to guards, making them the ideal for construction sites, who often have temporary CCTV requirements.
And with advancements to allow for additional capabilities of ANPR, Time Lapse Video and site condition monitoring sensors, all-in-one CCTV solutions are only becoming more convenient for construction sites.
So, what are the best all-in-one, mobile CCTV solutions for construction sites?
We explore two options considered to be the best options for construction sites: Redeployable CCTV Cameras and CCTV Towers
Redeployable CCTV Cameras for Construction Sites
Redeployable CCTV is described as a mobile surveillance system that incorporates live and recorded video, via an integrated motherboard within one portable housing.
To break that description down, a Redeployable CCTV Camera can be distinguished by:
- Video transmission via mobile networks
- Remote access to live and recorded video
- An integrated hard drive for local storage capabilities
- Quick and easy installation
- Full portability so you can move the camera as your project develops
The portability and rapid deployment nature of these cameras make them “redeployable” which means they can be easily relocated. This key element sets them apart from traditional static CCTV cameras.
Typically, Redeployable CCTV Cameras are mounted to a lamppost, building or pole at locations where power, internet and mounting facilities are not readily available.
These systems combine an IR PTZ camera, wireless transmission, a voice address system, battery back-up and an integral hard drive for evidential video recording into one portable and easy-to-install unit.
Advanced Redeployable CCTV Cameras contain inbuilt video analytics to help automatically detect intrusions at your construction site and are backed by remote monitoring services. This allows trained professionals to issue a live audio challenge remotely if they detect and verify an intrusion.
Specifically designed to meet the requirements of developing construction sites, Redeployable CCTV is considered one of the best options for this industry as it is fully portable and can easily be moved around your site as security requirements change.
As the years have gone by, CCTV cameras have advanced with technology and what was once just a recording device has now developed features such as remote viewing, infrared and motion detection.
Also with multiple channel inputs, Redeployable CCTV Cameras like ours offer numerous additional benefits like ANPR capabilities and IR technology, all of which help to customise them to your security needs.
Rapid Deployment CCTV Towers for Construction Sites
A Rapid Deployment CCTV Tower is an all-in-one security solution for temporary sites and remote locations.
Usually equipped with high tech security cameras and detection technology, these units can be quickly deployed to your construction site, easing any security concerns.
With a wide variety of powering methods and wireless video transmission capabilities, Rapid Deployment CCTV Towers offer various solutions that can be molded to your construction site’s needs, no matter how remote.
When looking for a CCTV Tower, think about your construction site’s needs such as, the length of the project, access to power, level of security required and any other specific needs.
From fully solar-powered options and one with fuel cell backup to ANPR integration and Time Lapse add-ons, CCTV Towers offer a wealth of benefits and personalisations that will enhance your construction site’s security.
They’re often considered the best option for remote construction sites without reliable electricity or infrastructure as they contain a range of next-gen features that help to completely eradicate theft from construction sites whilst also powering themselves.
At up to 6 metres tall, they are a highly impactful deterrent that helps prevent trespass and intrusions to sites whilst live monitoring and recording your site 24/7 for full protection.
Remote CCTV Monitoring for Construction Sites
Onsite security guards are expensive and rely on having someone in the right place at the right time to stop crime.
Therefore, by combining your construction site CCTV with professional remote monitoring services, they become a virtual security guard - delivering an unrivalled, proactive security solution.
Unlike security guards, CCTV with remote monitoring doesn’t have blind spots, and won’t have lapses in concentration or require sick days.
That’s not to say that onsite security guards are obsolete. In fact, our systems can work perfectly in tandem with security guards, who benefit from a surveillance system that informs them when and where there is an intrusion.
There are plenty of benefits and advantages to using remote monitoring with your CCTV systems to improve the protection of your construction sites.
What is Remote CCTV Monitoring and How Does it Work?
Remote CCTV Monitoring is a cost-effective way of securing your construction site and your assets from criminal damage.
The cameras help to deter criminals, and remote monitoring enhances this by sending camera images to a security centre that quickly responds to any suspicious activity.
An internet connection is required, either LAN, WiFi or mobile connectivity like 4G/5G, so that the camera can send images to the monitoring station when unusual activity is detected. An expert can then manually login to the cameras and identify if this is a threat or a false alarm such as, moving vegetation or animal.
If a positive threat is identified, an expert from the monitoring station will sound a siren with a live audio challenge to let the intruder know they have been detected and security services, or police, have been notified and are on their way to the site.
Need some more information on Remote CCTV Monitoring?
Choosing the right CCTV Cameras & Towers for your Construction Site
The most effective construction site CCTV cameras combine the best technology with intelligent features to make these tools more effective than ever.
Designed to provide comprehensive site security, including CCTV surveillance, access control, alarm monitoring and remote monitoring, among other features, our solutions are suitable for various construction sites and their unique needs.
Our experienced security professionals are committed to delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring your sites remain secure throughout the project.
From the point of installation, all the way to the decommissioning of our products, WCCTV’s fully-managed service provides ease and peace of mind,from project managers, placing the burden of security into experienced hands.
Speak with us about your next project!
