Imagine arriving at the job site and encountering the worst news ever! Your time and investment are wasted because thieves, vandals, and arsonists are drawn to your construction site like magnets. However, with the implementation of jobsite Security cameras, you can deter crime and protect your valuable assets.

Although the Titanic sank, your investment on the job site does not need to! 

According to the National Equipment Register, job site crime costs around $1 billion annually in USA and Canada. These thefts occur on less protected job sites than in insured areas.

If you also want to protect your investments, look into the most reliable surveillance for job sites. Focus on designing an upscale mall, industry, or theme park, and leave real-time surveillance concerns to Sirix. 

Sirix ensures that your security requirements are met through real-time installation, maintenance, management, and repairs.

This article emphasizes the necessity of Security Cameras at the jobsite and remote video monitoring. Therefore, strategically placing them allows for 24-hour monitoring. So dive in and protect your investment using job site security cameras.

Why do we need to protect jobsites with security systems?

The answer is simple: because you need to protect significant investments. These expenses include labor, supplies, heavy machinery, maintenance, and employee productivity.

Here are some reasons why job sites must be monitored around the clock, 365 days a year!

Shield against thieves

We must constantly monitor the jobsite from the fencing perimeter to watch for thieves hiding nearby. They pick up almost anything, including copper, brass, glass, tools, and rented machinery.

Installing jobsite cameras will aid in preventing thieves from even attempting to enter the construction site at mere sight of the security cameras.  

However, jobsite cameras that are also connected to a security monitoring center are better protected from thieves because if they do try to break in, the camera AI will catch them and send an alarm to the monitoring center, where the on-duty security operators will intervene in accordance with the SOP (making a vocal intervention also known as audio talk-down, calling the police, etc.).

Shield against vandals and arsons

The jobsite is plagued by a significant amount of vandalism and arson. Vandals may be involved in virtually any form of site destruction, including graffiti and the breaking of priceless items.

Arsonists also use a variety of nefarious techniques to destroy the structure. Small job site security cameras are helpful to monitor thefts and vandals.

Efficient labor surveillance

In the USA, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 1,008 workplace fatalities among construction workers in 2020. It is crucial to have a secure construction jobsite that is constantly watching over workers and keeping an eye on the working environment.

Effective remote monitoring can lower the cost of hiring. You can get the most out of your workforce by keeping an eye on them and encouraging them to concentrate on the more important aspects of their work by more effectively monitoring employee activity.

Consequently, by making the most of the current workforce and avoiding the need to re-hire in order to replace lazy labor.

Reduce guarding cost

An expensive full-time guard is only about half as efficient as a remote video monitoring system. There is an increased risk for human error and on-duty fatigue with on-site guards than with remote operators.

Remote video monitoring is a more cost-effective option that simultaneously protects multiple sites, ensuring that no areas are left unguarded. 

Why Jobsite Security Cameras Are Beneficial

All the advantages cannot be achieved with a single jobsite camera. But with remote video monitoring, you can enjoy the advantages listed below and best safeguard your investment.  

Effective construction monitoring will prevent theft and vandalism and deal with trespassers and hazards much quicker. Consequently, better remote site management is possible on issues like improving worker safety and project monitoring 24/7.

• Provides evidence for theft investigation: 

Camera footage is stored in the cloud or on a server by utilizing the video analytics feature of remote video monitoring, and can then be used for police investigations when required.

It can compile a list of people, vehicles, and other things in the video stream, which can be used in a theft investigation.

• Efficient detection in dark/secluded areas and at night: 

Jobsite cameras equipped with fence detection and PIR/IR motion detectors perform 24/7 jobsite surveillance. The security monitoring system triggers alarms and captures the footage of the intrusion by monitoring the perimeter fence.

It is experienced at perimeter fence detection, when used, thermal video cameras paired with motion detectors give better detection even in low light settings. It will reduce onsite theft by a considerable amount.

• Remote access: 

Depending on the security company, most of the time they offer a web portal and/or mobile application through which you can log in as the site manager or trusted employee and see live and recorded footage of your site from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an Internet connection. So you do not need to be present all the time to see what is happening on your site, hence, remote access.

• Real-time status updates on the project: 

By using nighttime surveillance on job sites, you can keep an eye on projects even after hours, enabling managers to plan and oversee their job sites remotely, around-the-clock. 

• Safety of Employees:

At the construction site, surveillance cameras can enhance working practices and lessen workplace hazards by properly analyzing recorded video.

Continuous observation makes it possible to identify high-risk areas and improve safety procedures. In emergencies, an immediate response can be taken. It reduces the risk of costly accidents and injuries.

• Better project monitoring: 

Project managers can evaluate the effectiveness and make informed decisions by watching time-lapse footage that cameras have captured. It prevents potential delays and additional costs. Using time-lapse footage, managers can identify and optimize resource use and minimize unnecessary expenses.

• Better asset protection: 

Using jobsite cameras can shield assets from the wind and rain. Construction site cameras are made to withstand extreme weather and offer reliable security. Surveillance cameras serve as a deterrent to prevent criminal activity by vandals and thieves. 

• Better relations with stakeholders: 

Time-lapse footage displays the project’s development, reassuring stakeholders that the work is being carried out optimally and fostering effective communication regarding the project.

With instant access to a live video feed, the stakeholders and project managers can stay in contact and better identify recurring issues.

Relevant features of security cameras for construction 

To help you choose the jobsite camera that is most appropriate for your location, we have compiled a list of the most crucial features in selecting the best jobsite security cameras. 

Choosing the right jobsite security camera

Once you have decided to secure that investment and install a jobsite security camera on the property to prevent theft, vandalism, and even employee negligence, choosing the ideal jobsite camera is the next step. Investigate various job site security measures to guarantee the protection of your construction site. Look out for the following factors:

• While selecting a jobsite camera, ensure its connectivity with the internet, as remote video monitoring requires 24/7 surveillance. If the site doesn’t have power you can also look for battery-powered or solar-charged cameras.

***Is there no Internet access or LTE network coverage at your location? You still have a lot of options for using security cameras and advanced analytics. Learn more about them by clicking here.

• Only large construction sites with inadequate lighting necessitate the use of thermal cameras. Any security camera can be installed at small construction sites, but the best remote monitoring system with it will allow you to feel confident about its security at all times.

• While choosing the best security camera, consider using minimum wires on  construction sites to avoid hazards. Choose a camera with maximum storage for year-round surveillance for constant real-time monitoring or you can use cloud storage.

Areas for jobsite camera placement

The following subheadings discuss critical areas for jobsite camera placement and the reasons behind their importance.

Entry and Exit Points

At the entry and exit points, job site security cameras are critical for protecting your construction site and assets. It tracks who enters or leaves the area. Moreover, employee attendance, equipment tracking, and unauthorized vehicle movements can be tracked.  

The remote concierge and remote gate access control services are also useful for construction sites. When an individual or vehicle approaches your entrances or gates, an alarm is sent to the remote operating center and a security operator greets them.

Remote operators can verify credentials, ask questions, and permit only authorized people to enter the premises. With improved monitoring of entrances and exits, it is now easier to identify the cause and the parties involved in accidents, theft, or sudden fire.

Material and Equipment Storage Areas

Jobsite security cameras support preserving a safe environment and safeguarding priceless assets. Therefore, it is essential to have cameras in storage areas for materials and equipment where it is possible to keep an eye on construction tools, machinery, and materials. 

PTZ (pan tilt zoom) cameras offer flexible coverage and can be operated remotely. Dome cameras, installed on the ceiling, give a 360-degree view of the storage area and are another excellent option. 

Perimeter and Fence Lines

The perimeter and the fence lines are among the most extravagant positions to monitor jobsite security. It allows you to see people as they break-in and catch them instantly as they enter, instead of them wandering on the premises.

Real-time monitoring system utilizes video analytics to detect intrusions and trigger alarms on a centralized platform. It also records footage of the event, which can be used as evidence in audits.

Common Areas and High-Traffic Zones

Jobsite security cameras monitor areas with high human traffic or common areas such as lunch areas and parking lots. It ensures employee safety and monitors suspicious employee behavior.

Importance of securing  jobsite security camera footage and data

Installation of the jobsite camera alone is not sufficient because even the most sophisticated camera must be connected to real-time monitoring. We require a remote video monitoring system to safeguard these significant investments in order to deter crime, catch intruders, control access, protect assets, and guarantee employee safety. 

Furthermore, using security cameras and remote video monitoring could potentially lower your insurance premiums because they have been shown to significantly reduce the number of thefts and crimes for businesses.

For more benefits of remote video monitoring for construction sites, read our blog, Construction Site Surveillance: 7 Proven Benefits of Remote Video Monitoring.

Pro tips for jobsite security camera placement

Aliza Vigderman, a digital security expert/analyst who has personally tested and reviewed 175 security products, shares some of her pro – insights about jobsite camera placement:

• When placing cameras, take into account any blind spots.

• Overlapping coverage is necessary for a comprehensive surveillance system to close any gaps.
• Mount cameras on very long poles, as that gives a 360 degree view and is out of tempering reach.  
• Your jobsite will have temporary security if you rent a security jobsite camera system. 
• Arrange regular cleaning of the jobsite security cameras throughout the site.

Additional tips to protect your jobsite from theft and other crime 

• Site personnel should regularly attend security training sessions to understand security policies and procedures fully.

• Implement regular internal and external site inspections and audits. Schedule them after every six months or follow the recommendations of your security installers as time may vary.

• All the entrances and exits should be fully secure with the cameras. Also, try to maintain logbooks for visitors and contractors.

Maintenance and Monitoring of Jobsite Security Cameras

• The jobsite security cameras must be checked regularly. Plan a quarterly inspection of all the installed cameras or follow the recommendations of your security installer.

• Follow the instructions of your security team as most companies will send regular audits with problems and solutions. For instance, they may inform you that spider webs on your camera lenses are causing false alarms. They will include a solution, which may be to clean all lenses with a soft cloth.

Autonomous security box

If you choose Sirix for jobsite security, take advantage of the powerful remote video surveillance tool explicitly designed for the construction site: An autonomous security box.

This innovative device includes a loud horn speaker for voice talk-down, a battery backup, autonomous LTE communication, and cameras with analytics detection ranges of 60 to 1000 meters.

The autonomous security box’s advanced technological support makes installation simple and takes care of any technical problems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I install and set up a job site security camera?

Usually, a jobsite security camera comes with easy-to-follow instructions in the box. You can quickly set up your camera by using the instructions below. 

• Choose the location of the camera that provides optimal coverage of the site.
• Arrange the required power source and connectivity options
• Now carefully mount the camera and adjust its angle and settings.
• Connect the camera to a cloud based interface to enable real time monitoring.
• Now toggle the camera settings such as HD resolution, recording mode, and motion detection.
• Test the camera to ensure it’s working and adjust any settings if needed.

Alternatively, your security installer will take care of all these steps.

How do I monitor and view footage from my job site security camera?

Companies like Sirix, TrueLook, Verkada, and Pelco offer jobsite security cameras and enterprise security camera systems with live view, time-lapse, and remote access capabilities.

If Wi-Fi is not available, CCTV cameras can be used for surveillance, with footage watched on several monitors and stored on a DVR.

What are the most common types of crimes that occur at job sites?

Crimes that occur at job sites can vary depending on the type of job site and the location. Theft of small tools, power tools, vandalism, arson, group fights, harassment, etc. are some of the most frequent crimes committed on construction jobsites.

What is the future of job site security cameras?

For high quality images, jobsite security cameras in the future will have an even better resolution than HD. With more intelligent monitoring sensors and better real-time surveillance, the use of AI seems quite obvious.

Enhanced connectivity options, such as Wi-Fi 6 and 5G, for more reliable and swifter data transmission.

What are the latest trends in job site security cameras?

The latest trends in job security cameras deploys even better real-time monitoring, mobile video surveillance, integrating to the cloud, and PTZ cameras. By 2027, it is anticipated that the global market for surveillance cameras will be worth $45.54 billion.

How do I get alerts when security camera footage is triggered?

You can set up notifications through your camera’s app or software to receive alerts when your security camera footage is triggered.

The specific steps for setting up alerts may vary depending on your camera model but typically involve selecting the desired notification settings and inputting your preferred contact information. 

How long should I keep security camera footage?

As for how long to keep jobsite security CCTV  camera footage, it is generally recommended to retain footage for at least 30 days or longer if you anticipate needing to refer back to it for any reason.

However, checking with local laws and regulations regarding surveillance footage retention is always best.

How do I store jobsite security camera footage?

Depending on your needs, such as the amount of storage space required, the length of the footage you want to save, and the level of security you need for your jobsite, you can choose to store security camera footage on the NVR or DVR storage or on the cloud.

What are the most common types of security cameras used at job sites?

The cameras with the best detection and zooming capabilities should be used. Domes, thermal, and bullet cameras, as well as PTZ cameras, are some of the most frequently used CCTV cameras on construction sites.

What are the benefits of using a wireless security camera system at a job site?

Using a wireless jobsite security camera system at a construction site has several benefits. Without wiring, installation is quicker and easier.  It is a portable jobsite camera that can be moved from one location to another to monitor and experiment the need for a new camera at a particular location at a site. As the construction progresses and layout changes they can be easily transported from one area of the jobsite to the next.

They help in hard-to-reach or remote areas. Wireless jobsite security camera systems can also help with monitoring particular areas of the sites with productivity issues to enable  a smooth flow of operations through constant monitoring and reduce the hazards of tripping over.

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A Complete Guide to Construction Site Security System 

Your Ultimate Guide on How to Choose the Best Construction Site Security Cameras

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3 Video Surveillance Tips for the Best Construction Site Security

To wrap up

By using the best job site security cameras, you can protect your construction site from theft and vandalism while also facilitating a smooth construction process. 

While getting superior imagery, on-site data, and collaboration tools with remote live monitoring system, installing security cameras at job sites can help save investment by promoting safety, minimizing risk, and increasing efficiency.

If you require thorough monitoring of the jobsite, get in touch with us right away to arrange a security evaluation. If you have any questions or would like to share how you used jobsite security cameras to best protect your investment, leave a comment below.