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Thanks to jobsite theft research conducted by ForConstructionPros.com we know that items most stolen from jobsites nationwide break down like this:

1) Compressors: 15%
2) Portable Generators: 13%
3) Trailers: 13%
4) Skid Steers: 10%

This data helps GCs better secure their jobsites by adding extra layers of security to those items. However, ForBusinessPro’s findings don’t show one of the core jobsite theft tactics that we’ve seen time and time again. Protecting yourself from this single tactic will reduce jobsite theft attempts considerably.

Skid Steer Loaders: The Jobsite Thief’s Tool of Choice
Our experience shows us that the skid steer loader is the number one tool of choice for jobsite thieves… in addition to being the 4th most stolen item from jobsites (PDF link). First we’ll look at why, and then look at ways you can prevent thieves from using this handy tool. The bonus is that if you stop thieves from using your skid steers as theft tools they can’t steal them either. Skid steer theft prevention delivers multiple benefits.

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How Theives Use Skid Steers to Rob Jobsites
Even the toughest lock can’t stand up to a skid steer’s repeated bashing. Thieves use skid steers to open up “secure” connex boxes like sardine cans so they can get at the materials and equipment inside. Thieves also use them to load up their trucks with your materials. When you stop to think about it, there’s really not a more useful piece of equipment for smash and grab operations on a construction site than the skid steer. And since many jobsite thieves are insiders, they know how to use them well…

10 Ways to Protect your Skid Steers – and Your Construction Site
Here are the top ways to protect your construction site from theft by skid steer – one of the most common theft methods we’ve found on customers who contact us for construction video surveillance.

1) Construct a Skid Steer Corral
Build a jobsite security fence corral around your skid steers and other frequently-stolen materials and equipment. Sometimes a good fence is all it takes to prevent thieves from attempting to steal a skid steer.

2) Install Construction Surveillance Cameras
Nothing stops thieves like live video surveillance backed by onsite deterrents. At 18 seconds this video gives you an idea of the effectiveness of Pro-Vigil’s live video surveillance:

3) Park Skid Steers Defensively
Defensively park your skid steers in a “circled wagon” formation. This makes them difficult to access. Alternately, block them in with larger vehicles. Engaging blades into dirt, when possible, can also serve as a deterrent against skid steer theft by dragging and loading.

4) Chain Up Your Skid Steers
Chain your skid steers to each other or to larger equipment to immobilize them. Make sure to thread the chain through moving parts. This tactic won’t stop a determined thief, but it will certainly slow him down.

5) Add Skid Steer Wheel Locks
Skid steer wheel locks – also called boots – prevent the wheels from turning complete circles. This is the same device used by traffic police on cars whose owners have unpaid fines. Put it to use on your skid steers to keep thieves off.

7) Install Skid Steer Controller Locks
Like the “the Club” for autos, skid steer controller locks make the skid steer undriveable – even if the thief gets the key or knows how to hotwire skid steers. Skid steer controller locks come in small versions that only incapacitate one controller, and large versions that incapacitate both. Skid steer attachment locks are available as well.

8) Remove the Spark Plugs
For quick, effective theft prevention simply remove the spark plugs from your skid steers. No spark, no engine. This is not the most convenient method, but great in a pinch or over long holidays.

9) Establish a Key Control System
Equipment key management can go a long ways towards stopping unauthorized and illegal usage of your equipment. Especially your skid steers. Consider investigating a key control system so that your jobsite’s subcontractors and employees can’t steal a key during the day and come back that night.

10) Keep Skid Steers Well Lit
To deter thieves, keep your skid steers brightly lit and visible from the road. Thieves prefer to strike in the comfort of shadows. Don’t help them to relax. Drive by your jobsite at night to check on your security. Good construction site lighting can make a big difference in keeping thieves off of your skid steers.

Bonus Tip 11) Store Skid Steers Off of Trailers
Though this won’t keep thieves from using skid steers to rob your site, it will make it much harder for thieves to steal them. Leaving skid steers on their trailers is like leaving your front door open and unlocked during a week vacation – and all your major appliances boxed and ready to load up. Don’t make theft convenient! Unload skid steer loaders at the end of the day.

More Construction Security Resources from Pro-Vigil:
Secure Jobsite Boxes: 4 Key Features to Look For
5 Security Lighting Tips For Your Construction Site
How Secure is Your Construction Security Fence? 11 Questions to Ask
How to Analyze Your Job Site’s Security Needs BEFORE the Job Begins
Reducing Employee-Driven Job Site Theft
Job Site Security: Establish Your End-of-Day Routine
Equipment Yard Security: 10 Tactics that Stop Equipment Yard Theft
A Model Home Security Plan: 10 Tips that Prevent Burglaries
Job Site Security: Establish Your End-of-Day Routine
9 Ways to Stop Construction Theft During Holidays and Vacations