Minimizing Theft on Construction Sites in Ghana: The Perspective of Contractors in the Upper West Region of Ghana

Abstract

Theft has been recognized as a major problem in the construction industry. Theft have an impact on the potential profitability of a construction project and also on the overall success of the construction industry. This research is set out to explore the most efficient and appropriate security measures to employ at construction sites in Ghana that would minimize or eliminate the incidence of theft on construction sites. This study was conducted in the upper west region of Ghana with a relatively homogenous population of contractors. The study was conducted using a quantitative research approach in which questionnaires were administered to contractors. The results from the analysis of the data ranked various security measures based on their Mean of frequency. Lighting of sites, fencing of sites and locking of gates were ranked above other security measures as being more efficient in preventing theft both when construction sites are located in densely and sparsely populated areas. The results indicated that employment of watchman is the most efficient and most used security measure on construction sites with security cameras, alarm systems and warning signs constituting the least used security measures. Effective implementation of the most critical security measures whiles giving some consideration to other security measures would most likely protect sites from theft whiles ensuring that value for money invested in securing sites is also achieved.

Theft and Vandalism Control Measures on Construction Sites

“…Similarly, Ablordeppey et al (2020), equipment theft on construction sites in Ghana is a significant problem that has a detrimental effect on the industry's output and efficiency. The study listed power tools, welding equipment, generators, compressors, and compressors as some of the most commonly stolen types of machinery.…”

“…Vandals and thieves may decrease a project's potential revenue as well as directly impact its success (Arijeloye, 2023). Theft from construction sites is a major problem and a persistent threat in the industry (Ablordeppey, 2020).…”

“…Several strategies have been employed by other writers to reduce vandalism and theft at construction sites. Using secure storage areas, labelling plants with permanent marks, maintaining an inventory of construction equipment, and erecting perimeter fences are among the most popular ones (Ablordeppey, 2020;Edike & Babatunde, 2017). However, their effectiveness has been called into question as theft and vandalism incidents on construction sites continue to rise.…”

“…Other authors have lamented the underutilization of suitable safeguards including closed-circuit television (CCTV), alarm systems, and background checks on applicants' history (Edike & Babatunde, 2017). This has been partly explained by the high capital expenditures associated with their implementation, which small and medium-sized contractors often have to bear (Ablordeppey et al, 2020). Big contractors, however, find the cost-benefit analysis supporting the implementation of these SMPs to be sufficiently compelling.…”

“…Big contractors, however, find the cost-benefit analysis supporting the implementation of these SMPs to be sufficiently compelling. Sadly, Ablordeppey et al (2020) have observed that these SMPs are still disregarded and that theft and vandalism still cause large contractors to incur large losses. Even in industrialised countries, construction sites are often targeted by thieves and vandals.…”