Industry Alert: Rise in Site Thefts – Stay Vigilant

November 25, 2024

Reports are surfacing of a worrying increase in thefts from worksites across the drilling and ground investigation sector and the British Drilling Association (BDA) is calling on members to be vigilant. Equipment, tools, and materials are being targeted, with incidents often taking place after hours or in remote locations, leaving sites particularly vulnerable.

Key Risk Factors:

• Isolated or poorly lit areas – providing easy cover for thieves.
• Lack of secure storage facilities – leaving valuable items exposed.
• High-value items left in plain sight – increasing temptation for opportunistic thefts.

Prevention Tips:

• Secure Storage: Invest in lockable storage units or containers to protect tools and materials.
• Site Monitoring: Install CCTV cameras, motion sensors, or employ mobile security patrols to deter potential theft.
• Mark Equipment: Label tools and machinery with identifiable markings or use tracking devices to assist in recovery if stolen.
• Limit Access: Restrict access to authorised personnel only and ensure robust entry controls are in place.
• Educate Your Team: Make sure all team members are aware of these risks and the preventive measures in place.

Take Action 

If a theft does occur, report it immediately to the authorities and share intelligence with others in the sector. Collaboration is key to safeguarding our worksites and preventing future incidents.

By working together, we can reduce these risks and protect our people, sites, and equipment.