Landscape Architect Articles

Protecting Equipment from Theft10-01-07 | News

Protecting Equipment from Theft

By Zach Bruce and Jill Hoffmann, Hortica Insurance

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Leaving merchandise or equipment outside after hours is often convenient, but it presents a dilemma for landscape business owners. Theft is a multi-billion-dollar problem for business owners nationwide. Even if only small items are taken, their value can add up quickly. It is worthwhile to carefully consider taking measures to discourage thieves. A few simple and inexpensive steps can go a long way toward protecting your business against after-hours theft.

Theft Prevention Planning

Developing a written policy making it clear that the company will prosecute thieves who are caught is the first step in theft prevention planning. In addition, keep accurate records of your inventory. Photograph and tag expensive items or equipment so that, in the event of a theft, you will know exactly what was taken and will be able to describe each item in detail and/or provide photos. Keep records of serial numbers, purchase receipts or other proof of ownership.

Unfortunately, employee theft can also be a concern. Employee theft costs businesses nationwide millions of dollars every year. To prevent employee theft before it starts, carefully hire and screen prospective employees. Establish and enforce clear company policies on employee theft. Post the policy in work areas to discourage theft. Limit access to keys, computerized records and alarm codes.

Communication with local law-enforcement is key in protecting your business from after-hours theft. Talking to local crime prevention officers and making them aware of your operating hours can be helpful, because police can patrol businesses and job sites. Inform police that anyone seen on the property during non-operating hours can be viewed with suspicion. If a theft does occur, be aware that thieves quickly sell or dispose of stolen goods. Speed in reporting to authorities is essential.

Eliminating Opportunity

It is impossible to prevent every theft, but if you make it difficult for them to succeed, thieves may go elsewhere. The opportunist thief does not want to take longer than two or three minutes to commit a crime. The following steps can make access to your equipment and merchandise more difficult and reduce the likelihood of your landscape business being targeted by thieves:

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In addition to plants and other merchandise, thieves may be particularly interested in large equipment, hand tools and material.

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Bobcat loaders and equipment offer users an optional numeric code system that eliminates the need for keys?EUR??,,????'?????< Photo by Erik Skindrud

Preventing Thefts of Small Tools

Employees are more likely to steal small items such as hand tools. Tools can be protected after hours by securing them in locked trailers or tool chests. To prevent pilferage during the day, make sure all equipment is marked. Inventory all tools periodically and consider use of a sign-out sheet for tools. In some cases it may be difficult to identify which tools are the employer?EUR??,,????'?????<
The costs incurred as a result of after-hours theft can be damaging. Taking the steps outlined above can help protect your business ?EUR??,,????'?????<
For more information on theft prevention, contact Hortica at 800-851-7740 or visit Hortica?EUR??,,????'?????<