Construction industry warned about metal theft

Jacksons Fencing report that the construction industry is being warned to be extra vigilant when securing their premises to discourage intruders looking for high value "scrap" metal.

A nationwide police operation has been put in place to target the epidemic of metal theft crimes that is sweeping the country.

The high cost of energy and growing demand for metal in developing countries such as India and China (which has forced steel prices to unprecedented levels) is thought to be the catalyst behind this outbreak of crimes, said to be costing the economy GBP360 million every year.

Thieves across the county are targeting construction sites, public buildings, homes and businesses looking for valuable 'scrap' metal such as lead and copper from roofs and steel from domestic and commercial gates and fences.

Jacksons Fencing, one of the UK's leading manufacturers and installers of steel security fencing and gates, claims construction businesses represent a natural target for this spate of crime.

Richard Jackson, CEO of Jacksons Fencing says "Since so many construction businesses' headquarters and commercial building sites boast a metal presence in a multitude of applications they will almost certainly attract the attention of the unscrupulous individuals involved in this growing crime".

"We are advising all construction businesses to be extra security conscious and to immediately report any suspicious behaviour or sightings to their local police force".

In fact it has even been reported that some thieves are posing as professional contractors or installers to remove metal from sites in a bid to cash in on the high demand.

Richard Jackson continues "Anyone receiving an unscheduled visit to their construction site / supplier HQ premises from a contractor purporting to represent Jacksons should first check their credentials or call our Contracts Department on 01233 750393 for verification".

Jacksons' offers a portfolio of perimeter security products that includes dedicated perimeter intrusion defence solutions.

In addition, Jacksons' steel fencing and gates are some of the most secure on the market, constructed with strong concealed fixings to prevent fence and gate panels being popped out and removed.

"Given the lengths some thieves are willing to go to in order to obtain steel, having a solid and secure product that can't be tampered with is only part of the solution".

"The construction industry must also re-evaluate the quality of its current frontline perimeter defences and, until the price of metal drops dramatically - acknowledge that any metal installations carry a high cost value therefore question the validity of anyone wishing to gain access to it".

Police Superintendent Peter Wedlake, Kent Police Force backs up the call for vigilance "Criminals target copper cable, piping or plumbing materials and lead from the roofs of houses, churches and commercial buildings".

"We are advising that premises with valuable metals undergo a security review and that any necessary adjustments are made".

"People should remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police".

Richard Jackson, CEO Jacksons Fencing.

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