Security Challenges for Construction Sites in Aberdeen



Aberdeen has recorded an increase in break-ins, thefts, and vandalism at construction and industrial sites. And these incidents are not exclusive to a single site, businesses locally have raised concerns that despite high-profile sites having increased security measures around the front line, thieves have been breaking into smaller projects at night and stealing tools and materials. 

The story is a familiar one for site managers, contractors, and property owners: where are the security weak spots, how can we safeguard expensive materials, how do we operate a production line and prevent losses? 

This article sets out the framework of Security Challenges for Construction Sites in Aberdeen, including real examples, and explores solutions to increase security.

Why Construction Sites Are Attractive Targets in Aberdeen

Aberdeen has experienced issues with burglary at construction sites. During a quick series of raids that saw multiple sites targeted from August 28-31, 2025, thieves breached numerous construction sites, generally between evening and early hours in the morning. 

Here are some reasons to consider with respect to those construction sites being especially vulnerable and appealing to thieves. 

  • Valuable and portable items: Tools, copper, lead, timber. These items are appealing, are easy to carry and transport, and are always in demand.

  • No human presence: During night time, or weekends, a holiday, or even because of low daytime activity, there is generally no human presence on construction sites.

  • Multiple access points: Gates, fences, containers, scaffolding, and vehicles often provide access points that can be compromised.

  • Limited patrols and delayed response: Although the alarm is ringing, and a report completed to the police has created awareness that a break in has occurred, often thieves have fled the site.

Common Security Weaknesses at Aberdeen Sites

Recent reports highlight a few of the common areas of failings. Understanding these can help site operators determine where to focus their effort.

Inadequate Perimeter and Access Control

Many sites have ineffective fences, unsecured gates, or no signage, and those sites that use temporary options do not maintain those options. Scaffolding remains exposed, containers unlocked, and the unused areas secured locked the least.

Inadequate Lighting

Darkness is a criminal's friend. A recent report out of Aberdeen states that many of the thefts happened overnight, from 6pm until early morning, when lighting is reduced or absent.

Lax Storage & Equipment Security

Tools and materials can be left in unsecured locations or temporary storage with little safeguarding. Containers may not have secure latches, and high-value items stored onsite will draw repeat offenders.

Overreliance on “After the Fact” Security

CCTV and tracking systems may record crime, but they do not prevent or deter crime. After-the-fact responses from security, intrusion detection, and tracking systems can be delayed. 

Real Examples from Aberdeen

Below are real incidents demonstrating what can go wrong and where the focus must be placed,

  • Countesswells Park Avenue: Timber was stolen overnight from a building site yard. 

  • Caiesdykes Road: Copper piping, welding equipment and tools were stolen after hours. 

  • Minto Drive & The Parkway: Multiple weekends of burglaries from secure storage areas for material and containers.

Effective Security Measures to Implement

While none are foolproof, layering several measures increases the cost to criminals and can deter them from targeting your site. 

  • Enhance Perimeter Control

  • Enhance Lighting & Visibility 

  • Secure Storage and Equipment Protocols

  • Alarm, CCTV, & Mobile Response

  • Regular Site Inspections & Staff Training

Balancing Security with Practicality and Cost

Certain security measures can be costly or could be seen as overkill. Here are some ideas for how Aberdeen site managers can strike a balance:

  • Instead of over-securing everything, prioritize at least the high risk areas.

  • Utilize cheaper deterrents: upgrading lighting, putting up signage, basic types of fencing etc. are fairly inexpensive.

  • Think about technology: portable CCTV towers, solar powered systems, battery backed alarms etc.

  • Consult with insurance companies: sometimes enhanced security can result in premium reductions.

Role of Licensed Security & Local Partnerships

SIA-licensed security guards offer a degree of professionalism, expectation of accountability, and an element of trust. Mobile response teams or keyholding services should have been vetted and certified. 

Leveraging local partnerships also has its benefits, such as involving neighbouring sites, sharing intelligence, engaging with Police Scotland and advocating for joint patrols. A case in point is Aberdeen City Centre where, when retailers worked with local authorities, manufacturers saw a marked decline in shoplifting and vandalism.

Conclusion

Security threats at construction sites in Aberdeen are real and rising: theft, vandalism, and unauthorised access after hours. Worrying as they are, these threats can easily be addressed.

The site leads will need to identify vulnerabilities - e.g., fence lines, lighting, storage - then consider a multi-faceted approach (CCTV + alarms + licensed response + regular audits) that combines professionalism within the area, knowing the area, and working out what will have the most impact based on vulnerability and event likelihood. 

If you are in Aberdeen and managing a site, you might consider using these concepts to reassess your current site security framework. Taking simple actions now can help avoid costly loss later.


Name: Press Office – Region Security GuardingEmail: info@regionsecurityguarding.co.ukPhone: +44 330 912 2033Website: https://regionsecurityguarding.co.uk

Location: Aberdeen, UK

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