Tool theft happens all year round. However, with the cost-of-living crisis having tools stolen just before Christmas will hit families harder than ever before. Last year almost £53million (£52,944,660) worth of tools were stolen across the UK according to research. However, it’s not only the value of the tools that will leave tradespeople out of pocket, it also leaves them unable to work until the tools are replaced, therefore losing out on money from jobs.

Alison Peckham, Security Expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk has shared seven expert tips to help tradespeople prevent tool theft from ruining their Christmas.

1. Etch your details onto tools with permanent paint to make them less attractive to thieves
Etching your details onto tools or marking them with permanent paint is a good idea. It not only makes recovering tools easier, but it may also deter thieves as they’ll find it harder to sell the tools on. Taking note of serial numbers and any distinguishing marks will also help you recover your tools should the worst happen.

2. Always remove batteries from power tools when they’re not in use
You should always remove the batteries from your power tools when they’re not in use and store them in different places. This will make them less attractive to thieves as it will reduce their value and ability to be sold immediately.

3. Park where CCTV is in operation, against a wall, or install a security bollard
Carefully consider where you leave your van, both at night and during daytime breaks. Quiet country lanes, car parks, and side streets are places thieves often target with the hope of going unnoticed.

So, think about parking where CCTV cameras are in operation or where your security cameras cover, such as your driveway. When at home, try to park in sight of your windows rather than behind a fence or on an unlit street. Thieves prefer to target vans where they can’t be observed.

Perhaps install a security bollard to prevent thieves from driving off with your van. You could also park with your side or back door against a wall, so thieves can’t access it.

4. Install lockable compartments inside your van to create an extra hurdle for thieves
In an ideal world, you’d remove tools from your work van at night. But this isn’t always possible. So, securing your van properly is the next best option. Don’t assume that just because the van is locked, it is safe.

Investing in better locks and alarms is the first step to making it secure. But you can do more. Lockable compartments inside your van will create an extra hurdle for thieves to get over. The more time it takes a thief to access your tools, the higher the chance they’ll get interrupted or give up.

5. Make it KNOWN your worksite is covered in CCTV
The more secure your worksite is, the less chance you have of losing your tools to thieves. Site security fences and controlled access points can minimise intruders.

Although, it’s still a good idea to remove tools from the site at night. Using CCTV and erecting signs to notify the public that the site is secure are other measures you can take to reduce tool theft.

6. Take staggered breaks during work hours
For smaller building sites, consider taking staggered breaks with colleagues or other trades. That way, someone is always around to keep an eye on things. And again, you should pack up and take tools away with you at the end of the day.

7. Don’t store your tools in the shed or garage even if it’s locked
Safely storing your tools indoors is the best way to prevent tool theft. Keeping them in a secure home or workplace is best. Sheds and garages, even locked ones, are easy targets for thieves. Plus, a locked storage cabinet inside your home or workspace will add an extra layer of protection for your tools.

https://www.myjobquote.co.uk/tradesadvice/tool-theft-and-how-to-stop-it