MILWAUKEE Specialist, Roger Hall, offers six essential strategies to safeguard your investments in tools and equipment.
Trade professionals invest considerable time and money in their tools, enabling them to work efficiently and effectively. Unfortunately, it also makes them prime targets for theft. In the past year, £98 million worth of tools were stolen in the UK alone, with a theft reported every twelve minutes.
This alarming statistic underscores the importance of robust security measures – which are now needed to protect these valuable and much sought-after assets.
However, installers can be proactive when protecting their gear – and by following these six strategies, can ensure their safety and longevity:
1. Register your tools
One of the most straightforward yet effective steps in tool protection is registering them for an extended guarantee. Many tradespeople overlook this simple action, but it can save installers hundreds, if not thousands, on repairs and replacements while aiding in the tracking and recovery process.
2. Utilise advanced tracking technologies
Embracing modern tracking technologies can greatly enhance the security of your tools. Bluetooth-based tracking systems that utilise a mobile phone’s GPS can help locate missing items quickly.
When choosing tracking devices, opt for ones that are durable (with an IP68 rating and capable of withstanding extreme temperatures from +60°C to -20°C) have long battery life (up to three years), and feature built-in speakers for identification.
These devices should also offer an extended range (around 30 metres) and have accelerometers to notify you of unauthorised movements. The effectiveness of these systems increases as more people use them, creating a robust network for locating stolen tools.
3. Maximise ‘built-in’ digital protection
Tools equipped with digital protection technologies can be a game-changer. Some manufacturers provide Apps that offer a range of features to secure your tools:
Data capture: Record essential information such as model numbers, serial numbers, date codes, and purchase receipts, which are crucial for insurance claims and police reports.
Digital inventories: Create detailed descriptions and photos of each tool, saving time and providing a comprehensive backup.
QR code enabled: Attach small QR codes to tools to simplify the registration process and track their whereabouts.
Tool disablement: Disable stolen tools via the App, rendering them unusable and deterring theft.
Theft notification: Notify guarantee service agents if a stolen tool is brought in for service.
4. Use secure storage solutions
Storing your tools in secure, locked containers is fundamental to preventing theft. Invest in high-quality, heavy-duty storage solutions that are difficult to break into. Portable job boxes and tool chests with reinforced locks provide an extra layer of protection, deterring opportunistic thieves and ensuring your tools are safe when not in use.
5. Implement job site security measures
Enhancing job site security is another critical step in reducing the risk of tool theft. Installing security cameras and motion sensor lights can help monitor activity and discourage potential thieves. Visible security measures signal that your job site is under surveillance and protected, serving as a deterrent to would-be criminals.
6. Educate your team
Ensure that your team is aware of the importance of tool security and is familiar with the measures available to them. Conduct regular training sessions to demonstrate how security features within your tools work, especially for those who may be less tech-savvy.
Continuous improvement
Regularly reviewing and updating your security practices is essential to maintaining their effectiveness. By continuously improving your security measures, you can stay ahead of potential threats and ensure that your tools remain safe.
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