Security Solutions for Scaffolding

In a densely populated, ever-evolving city like New York, there are constant construction, repair, and maintenance projects at residential, commercial and industrial buildings all across the city. To support these projects, companies use scaffolding, which are temporary structures made of wooden planks and metal poles that allow workers to safely access building levels that would otherwise be difficult and dangerous to reach.

While scaffolding is usually safe, an unsafe structure can result in serious injury or even death. This is why the planks, beams, and guardrails that make up these platforms are intricately constructed and designed to fully secure those who use them. But scaffolding safety comes down to even more than just a secure structure. To fully maintain a safe scaffolding environment, you should never leave it exposed.

Consider the risks that scaffolding is vulnerable to. These temporary structures are magnets for loitering, vandalism, and theft, especially during the late hours of the night when no one is on-site. And in many cases, access to a scaffold will give someone access to the building under construction, which poses a serious risk to the property. To prevent crime and recognize if your scaffolding platform has been tampered with, you should consider installing the right security solutions.

How security can help

One great way to prevent crime on your site is to install an alarm system, which can act as a theft-deterrent and safety feature. Once installed, your alarm can be programmed to activate when movement is detected during a predetermined period (such as nighttime) or when the scaffolding structure is tampered with.

You can also install a video surveillance system, which will give you peace of mind that you have eyes on everyone and everything at your site at all times. The presence of surveillance cameras alone is known to deter criminals, but having footage for later use if a crime did take place at your site would be just as useful. Furthermore, construction sites are, by their very nature, dangerous. Your workers should always be monitored for both safety and liability purposes.

An extra layer of protection

In addition to having alarms and surveillance cameras, you can implement a security service to improve your response to crime or unwanted activity. One service that fits the bill is remote video monitoring, which involves a two-fold approach. Virtual guard tours would patrol all areas of your construction site on a scheduled basis, and video analytic tripwires would be set up to detect the presence of anyone trespassing, climbing, or vandalizing.

If the guard tours or tripwires were to pick up on unusual activity, the service would alert onsite security personnel or authorities immediately. The service can even be set up with voice-down capabilities, in which a remote specialist would verbally warn potential criminals through an onsite speaker. Our team has seen this solution work first-hand for a client with a scaffolding structure when an unauthorized person was climbing it.

Things to consider

Regardless of which security solutions you choose to implement for your scaffolding structure and construction site, it is critical for the system to be able to withstand its surrounding environment. In a location like New York, scaffolding security systems must be able to function properly in rain, snow, and extreme temperatures (both high and low, depending on the season). And when any portion of the construction project is complete, the parts should have the flexibility to be relocated to where they are needed next. A security integrator can help you determine the best solutions for your unique site and needs.

About POM Technologies

Peace Of Mind Technologies has delivered site-specific, cost-effective security solutions to facilities throughout the greater New York Metro area since 2002. We aren’t your average security company, with a wide range of equipment and services for building security. NYC facilities can contact us at (212) 688-2767 or info@pom-tec.com to request a free security analysis, or reach out via the contact form below.