Who is Responsible for Construction Site Security?

​Construction sites are hotbeds of criminal activity, especially theft, which results in an estimated $1 billion in losses for companies annually. These losses prompt questions about who is really responsible for construction site security.

Construction site security is part of everyone's responsibilities and requires coordination between multiple stakeholders to be successful. The construction industry recognizes that protecting sites isn't just a cost-saving measure; it protects workers and minimizes the risks to occupational safety.

Who is Responsible for Construction Site Security?

While construction site security is a shared responsibility, each stakeholder contributes in unique ways to maintain it. These stakeholders and their responsibilities include:

General Contractor

Holds overall responsibility for construction site compliance with security and safety regulations. The GC also establishes security protocols that include tools like surveillance systems, lighting, and barriers. They also verify subcontractors' and workers' knowledge of their legal responsibilities for safety and security.

Site Supervisors

Supervisors are boots-on-the-ground leaders responsible for the day-to-day inspections of potential hazards and security concerns. They serve as a vital link between contractors and crews, providing guidance, communication, and compliance oversight. Site supers also implement personal protective equipment (PPE) standards.

Subcontractors and Crews

Subcontractors and crews must adhere to safety and security regulations as outlined in their contracts. They must also attend mandatory security and safety training sessions to mitigate risks and are responsible for securing materials at the end of their shifts.

Construction Safety Managers

Specialized position responsible for occupational safety protocols and compliance with OSHA regulations. These managers also conduct regular site audits and provide recommendations to protect workers, equipment, and machinery.

Security Providers

Third-party security services, assist in site monitoring and threat mitigation. These providers also provide after-hours patrols, remote monitoring, and real-time response to alarms to dissuade and catch criminals.

In addition to hiring security personnel, these third-party security providers also deploy mobile surveillance trailers for 24/7 monitoring. BIGLUX is a leading supplier of mobile surveillance trailers.

Best Practices for Assigning Security Responsibilities

While security is everyone's responsibility on the construction site, and there are plenty of security measures you can deploy, without a plan, they can be meaningless. To combat the potential lapses in security, implement some of these best practices:

• Outline Clear Job Descriptions: As part of every job description, outline security and safety responsibilities for each role. These responsibilities should also grace every contract you sign with GCs, subcontractors, and crews to determine accountability.
• Regular Training and Security Updates: Require ongoing security and safety training to adapt to new and emerging risks or technology. You can also deploy short refresher sessions between major training updates to prevent security incidents.
• Implementing Chain of Command: Establish a clear hierarchy to ensure responsible parties address incidents quickly and effectively. For example, that could mean supervisors report security gaps to the general contractor, who then engages a provider to propose a solution.
• Routine Security Reviews: Schedule routine security audits to assess compliance, identify gaps, and minimize risks. Review your technology suite, like live feeds, alarms, and access control systems, to ensure they meet your project needs.

A few small changes can make a massive difference in your security position. Keeping security at the top of your priority list signals to the rest of the job site that it's a top priority for them as well.

Construction site security requires a well-coordinated effort between general contractors, subcontractors, workers, and stakeholders to create a secure working environment. By clearly defining the joint responsibilities, implementing comprehensive security training, and leveraging modern technology, you can significantly reduce the risk and cost of security breaches