Tool security

Avoid temptation. Prevention is better than cure. Remove gear from your vehicle where and when possible or hide it outofsight. Tinted glass, blackedout windows and even sign writing stating no tools kept inside help.

Keep your distance. Thieves can target busy building sites. If it’s not visible to workers or parked on site, the risk increases.

Snap them up. Be sure to photograph all your equipment. A simple cell phone picture of expensive items will help keep track of inventory and help recovery if there is a theft, or provide evidence in the event of an insurance claim. Be sure to record serial numbers and date them.

Tag or mark. Nonremovable security tags, indelible or invisible inks, scoring, etching, engraving and stamping can all make property identifiable should the need arise. This helps with simple onsite loans, too.

GPS tags. For more sizable/costly tools and equipment, GPS trackable tags can be very effective at locating property should it go missing.

Lock it or lose it. Lockable ute covers, canopies, tool boxes and drawers will certainly slow wannabe thieves, as will additional security on specific items.

Smile, you’re on camera. Motionsensitive nanny cams can be placed discretely or visibly in or on your vehicle. They won’t always stop the theft but will almost certainly help identify the perpetrator.

Separate and safe. Rather than try to improve security of the vehicle’s contents, or the vehicle itself, it can sometimes be an even better idea to tow it. Service bodies are available so all the tools, parts and equipment can be safely and securely stowed into a separate trailer. This makes securing everything easier, it adds to the portability and opens up use by different vehicles.