Crime Epidemic Resulting from the COVID Pandemic

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AiGuard

If the past 18 months have taught construction and property owners anything, it’s that protecting construction sites requires adaptable security solutions. Evolving work sites need protection that can grow and adjust as the environment changes. As structures go up or come down—or when unexpected issues arise—new vulnerabilities and blind spots will appear. We’ve seen this exact scenario unfold time and time again.

Construction Site Theft Was Already Rising Before 2020

Even before 2020, theft on construction sites had been increasing steadily. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the situation grew worse. Many states didn’t classify construction as an “essential service,” which led to work stoppages and site shutdowns. Projects were delayed or canceled, and fully stocked sites were left idle.

With minimal staff present, expensive equipment and supplies were left exposed. These inactive sites quickly became prime targets for theft, vandalism, and even injury-related liabilities.

Real Builder Losses Show the Urgency of Protecting Construction Sites

From Maine to Southern California, builders filed daily reports of stolen items and site damage. The thefts were bold and costly. One Oregon home builder reported:

  • 8 stolen water heaters worth nearly $16,000

  • Toilets removed and stashed in garages for easy pickup

  • $400 in trailer damage to steal nearly $10,000 in gear

  • $4,500 in tools taken

  • A GPS system valued at $15,000 stolen

These examples happened in just one week. Countless other crimes went unreported, and total losses are still unknown. In an average year, heavy equipment theft alone in the U.S. exceeds $1 billion. Once you add stolen tools, supplies, and untracked items, that number climbs significantly.

New Health Threats Add Pressure to Secure Job Sites

As the Delta variant spread nationwide, construction teams faced even more uncertainty. If more closures return, job sites could again be left unattended. This increases the importance of protecting construction sites with reliable, adaptable security solutions.

Protecting Construction Sites with Hybrid Security Services

Guardian Integrated Security understands that no two construction sites are the same. That’s why we build custom security strategies for each client. Our hybrid security services combine A.I.-powered remote monitoring (using tools like RoboGuard or G3) with physical guards or vehicle patrols.

Unlike other companies that lock you into one type of service, we offer flexibility. A single guard or CCTV camera isn’t enough. Our experience shows that true protection comes from layered, evolving solutions.

Stay Ready—No Matter What the Future Brings

We help you stay ahead with security systems that grow as your site changes. Whether your construction site is fully active or paused due to restrictions, our integrated approach ensures full protection.

From real-time alerts and motion sensors to live patrols and remote monitoring, we offer 24/7 coverage that adapts with your needs. Protecting construction sites isn’t just a service—it’s our commitment to your project’s safety and success.

Call us at 800-400-3167 or contact us through our website for a free threat assessment

Todd McCormick

Global Director of Operations

The Biggest News in Construction Safety

Earlier this year, Construction Junkie reported on the 7 biggest construction safety stories of 2020. Read below to learn what they were, why they’re important to your sites and projects, and how Guardian Integrated Security can help you meet the challenges they raised (which are still relevant today).

Pandemic’s Impact on Construction Projects


The COVID-19 pandemic heavily affected the construction industry. Many projects were delayed or canceled, which led to increased theft and vandalism. Sites sat idle with equipment and materials left unguarded.

Over 2,000 construction companies were surveyed in August 2020. More than half of them worked on building projects rather than infrastructure. The results revealed:

  • 66% had projects stopped, delayed, or canceled
  • 44% said active projects slowed down
  • 32% faced higher costs than expected

We helped clients secure vacant sites with tailored solutions to avoid loss and damage during uncertain times.

Trench Dangers Still Cause Deaths


Trench collapses remained a serious threat in 2020. By February, eight workers had died in trench-related accidents. Despite OSHA’s efforts, collapses continue.

Unprotected trenches, no matter the size, pose high risks. Simple safety measures like sloping, shoring, or using trench boxes can prevent most incidents.

Guardian Integrated Security helps by monitoring and reporting trench conditions on-site. This supports safer practices and reduces worker risk.

New Tech for Worker Safety: Exoskeletons


Exoskeletons are no longer science fiction. Devices from Ekso Bionics and others now help construction workers avoid strain and injury.

These suits support upper body lifting and reduce fatigue. While expensive, they offer valuable long-term health benefits. One model provides 5–15 pounds of lift support per arm.

Until such technology becomes affordable, our security systems can help track injury causes. This helps employers make informed changes to reduce accidents.

Protecting Construction Sites Means Staying Updated on OSHA Regulations


Staying current with OSHA regulations is key to protecting construction sites. Some recent updates include:

Cranes and Derricks: Amended standards for load handling and power line safety

Crystalline Silica: New control methods and respirator rules

Confined Spaces: Clearer definitions for welding activities

PPE Requirements: Reinforced fit and protection standards, including COVID-19 safety

Guardian Integrated Security helps construction companies adapt and remain OSHA-compliant.

Innovative Fall Protection Anchors Save Lives


Falls remain the leading cause of construction deaths. Without proper anchor points, fall protection becomes difficult.

The Malta Dynamics X Series Mobile Grabber offers a mobile anchorage point, adjustable from 22 to 34 feet. It supports up to five users and helps prevent deadly falls.

This mobile system adds another layer of safety—just like our integrated security solutions do when protecting your construction site.

Lying to OSHA Can Cost You More Than Fines


Honesty during OSHA investigations is critical. Lying can lead to perjury charges, personal penalties, and company fines.

A New Jersey construction company owner falsely claimed work was unauthorized after two workers fell. Text messages proved otherwise. He was fined and sentenced to probation. His company paid $50,000.

Another supervisor lied in 2015 about fall protection use. Investigators discovered the safety gear was bought after the accidents. He received probation and community service.

Our security systems help document real-time activity. When incidents occur, video footage supports compliance and defends against false claims.


Make Sure to check out our Security Solutions for
Constructions Sites

Clarification of OSHA’s Position on Headphones Meant for Music on Job Sites

Just as the first week of 2020 concluded, OSHA released a “Standard Interpretation” letter regarding the use of headphones. Many brands now offer external noise-cancelling options, and while no specific regulation or standard bans their use, OSHA does, of course, have standards when it comes to hearing protection. Employees in all types of jobs and industries like privately listening to music during their workday, as it makes the day go by quicker, and fosters a positive attitude and good mood.

Clarification of OSHA’s Position on Headphones Meant for Music on Job Sites

On a construction site, however, doing so may pose a great danger to not only the listener but his or her fellow workers as well. While OSHA doesn’t prohibit laborers from enjoying some tunes using any kind of earbuds or headphones, the agency warns that using such listening devices could result in a dangerous situation, or make an already precarious circumstance worse. If construction workers can’t hear their surroundings, aren’t alert to what’s going on around them, or can’t communicate with others on-site, a dangerous and potentially life-threatening scenario could easily and quickly occur. Being able to hear and communicate on a property where heavy equipment and materials are being moved around and structures are being built is of paramount importance.

Since no OSHA regulation exists concerning this topic, it’s up to either the construction site foreman to set the standard or the workers’ judgment at any given time. Should you decide music directly into the ears is not allowed on your job site, but an employee dons their Beats anyway and gets injured or causes an injury, our security solution could provide you with the evidence you need to show negligence and deliberate disregard for the ‘no music through headphones’ policy you have set.

Get A Free Threat Assessment

Get A Free Threat Assessment

To receive a free, on-site security threat assessment with one of our Specialists today, call us at (800) 400-3167, or go here.


Let Us Show You How We Can Mitigate Your Security Challenges!
Call Us Today 800.400.3167

The Biggest News in Construction Safety

Earlier this year, Construction Junkie reported on the 7 biggest construction safety stories of 2020. Read below to learn what they were, why they’re important to your sites and projects, and how Guardian Integrated Security can help you meet the challenges they raised (which are still relevant today).

Pandemic’s Impact on Construction Projects


The COVID-19 pandemic heavily affected the construction industry. Many projects were delayed or canceled, which led to increased theft and vandalism. Sites sat idle with equipment and materials left unguarded.

Over 2,000 construction companies were surveyed in August 2020. More than half of them worked on building projects rather than infrastructure. The results revealed:

  • 66% had projects stopped, delayed, or canceled
  • 44% said active projects slowed down
  • 32% faced higher costs than expected

We helped clients secure vacant sites with tailored solutions to avoid loss and damage during uncertain times.

Trench Dangers Still Cause Deaths


Trench collapses remained a serious threat in 2020. By February, eight workers had died in trench-related accidents. Despite OSHA’s efforts, collapses continue.

Unprotected trenches, no matter the size, pose high risks. Simple safety measures like sloping, shoring, or using trench boxes can prevent most incidents.

Guardian Integrated Security helps by monitoring and reporting trench conditions on-site. This supports safer practices and reduces worker risk.

New Tech for Worker Safety: Exoskeletons


Exoskeletons are no longer science fiction. Devices from Ekso Bionics and others now help construction workers avoid strain and injury.

These suits support upper body lifting and reduce fatigue. While expensive, they offer valuable long-term health benefits. One model provides 5–15 pounds of lift support per arm.

Until such technology becomes affordable, our security systems can help track injury causes. This helps employers make informed changes to reduce accidents.

Protecting Construction Sites Means Staying Updated on OSHA Regulations


Staying current with OSHA regulations is key to protecting construction sites. Some recent updates include:

Cranes and Derricks: Amended standards for load handling and power line safety

Crystalline Silica: New control methods and respirator rules

Confined Spaces: Clearer definitions for welding activities

PPE Requirements: Reinforced fit and protection standards, including COVID-19 safety

Guardian Integrated Security helps construction companies adapt and remain OSHA-compliant.

Innovative Fall Protection Anchors Save Lives


Falls remain the leading cause of construction deaths. Without proper anchor points, fall protection becomes difficult.

The Malta Dynamics X Series Mobile Grabber offers a mobile anchorage point, adjustable from 22 to 34 feet. It supports up to five users and helps prevent deadly falls.

This mobile system adds another layer of safety—just like our integrated security solutions do when protecting your construction site.

Lying to OSHA Can Cost You More Than Fines


Honesty during OSHA investigations is critical. Lying can lead to perjury charges, personal penalties, and company fines.

A New Jersey construction company owner falsely claimed work was unauthorized after two workers fell. Text messages proved otherwise. He was fined and sentenced to probation. His company paid $50,000.

Another supervisor lied in 2015 about fall protection use. Investigators discovered the safety gear was bought after the accidents. He received probation and community service.

Our security systems help document real-time activity. When incidents occur, video footage supports compliance and defends against false claims.


Make Sure to check out our Security Solutions for
Constructions Sites

Clarification of OSHA’s Position on Headphones Meant for Music on Job Sites

Just as the first week of 2020 concluded, OSHA released a “Standard Interpretation” letter regarding the use of headphones. Many brands now offer external noise-cancelling options, and while no specific regulation or standard bans their use, OSHA does, of course, have standards when it comes to hearing protection. Employees in all types of jobs and industries like privately listening to music during their workday, as it makes the day go by quicker, and fosters a positive attitude and good mood.

Clarification of OSHA’s Position on Headphones Meant for Music on Job Sites

On a construction site, however, doing so may pose a great danger to not only the listener but his or her fellow workers as well. While OSHA doesn’t prohibit laborers from enjoying some tunes using any kind of earbuds or headphones, the agency warns that using such listening devices could result in a dangerous situation, or make an already precarious circumstance worse. If construction workers can’t hear their surroundings, aren’t alert to what’s going on around them, or can’t communicate with others on-site, a dangerous and potentially life-threatening scenario could easily and quickly occur. Being able to hear and communicate on a property where heavy equipment and materials are being moved around and structures are being built is of paramount importance.

Since no OSHA regulation exists concerning this topic, it’s up to either the construction site foreman to set the standard or the workers’ judgment at any given time. Should you decide music directly into the ears is not allowed on your job site, but an employee dons their Beats anyway and gets injured or causes an injury, our security solution could provide you with the evidence you need to show negligence and deliberate disregard for the ‘no music through headphones’ policy you have set.

Get A Free Threat Assessment

Get A Free Threat Assessment

To receive a free, on-site security threat assessment with one of our Specialists today, call us at (800) 400-3167, or go here.


Let Us Show You How We Can Mitigate Your Security Challenges!
Call Us Today 800.400.3167

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