For those in the trade unfortunate enough to experience tool theft, it can be devastating. Yet, tool theft remains a major concern for many tradespeople, especially for the significant impact it poses to loss of earnings and delays in completing projects.
As a trade professional, protecting your tools from theft is crucial to maintaining a successful and uninterrupted workflow. This is why the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act was created. This act, along with increased prevention strategies, is designed to add an additional level of protection for tradespeople.
Here, The Bathroom Showroom takes a quick look at what the act means while offering some quick tips on keeping your own tools safe.
What is the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act?
The Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act was made an act of parliament, making it an official law on 20th July 2023.
It’s a provision designed to prevent the theft of tools by making the re-sale of such equipment used by tradespeople, agricultural, and other businesses a harder process for thieves. This act extends to England and Wales.
How Does the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act Help Tradespeople?
The act was a response to the increasing number of thefts experienced by tradespeople. It’s believed that as much as 10% of tradespeople are more likely to experience tool theft from their vehicle as opposed to onsite at their place of work.
Understandably, this act can't offer complete protection against tool theft. Yet, what it does mean is a step in the right direction to deter would-be-thieves, while making it harder to re-sell tools.
Tool theft is primarily carried out for the resale value. So, this act works to make it harder for those looking to sell on such stolen goods through the process of forensic marking and by retailers recording owners’ details at the point of sale.
Practical Strategies to Help Prevent Tool Theft
Invest in Secure Storage Options:
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Purchase sturdy tool boxes or lockable cabinets to store your tools when they're not in use
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Consider installing heavy-duty padlocks to these add an additional layer of security
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Store your tools out of sight, as this reduces the likelihood of theft
Mark and Label Your Tools:
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Engrave your name or company logo on your tools to make them easily identifiable
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Use permanent markers or labels to indicate ownership
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Additionally, consider the potential of investing in GPS tracking devices to locate your tools in case of theft
Secure Your Vehicle:
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Lock your vehicle at all times, even if it's parked near your work site
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Install a sturdy alarm system or immobiliser to deter thieves
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Avoid leaving your tools unattended in your vehicle overnight
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Aim to park within areas that have visible CCTV
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If you have to leave tools in your vehicle, invest in a reputable tool safe
Keep an Inventory:
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Create a detailed inventory of all your tools, including make, model, and serial numbers
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Take photographs or videos of your tools as evidence for insurance claims
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Mark all your tools with your name and postcode
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Regularly update your inventory as you acquire new tools or replace old ones
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Consider adding security tags to your most expensive tools
Secure Your Worksite:
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Utilise temporary fencing or lockable gates to control access to your worksite
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Consider hiring a security guard or installing security cameras to monitor the premises
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Store valuable tools in a secure container when not in use
Establish a Neighbourhood Watch:
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Connect with other tradespeople in your area to form a neighbourhood watch group. Social media is a great way to spread the word and work together with many others in all trades
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Share valuable information about tool thefts and suspicious activities in and around the community
Get Insurance Coverage:
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Regularly review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and the claims process
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Keep copies of invoices, receipts, and serial numbers as supporting documents for claims
Protect Tools and Livelihood by Tackling Tool Theft
As a trade professional, protecting your tools from theft is crucial to maintaining a successful and uninterrupted workflow. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce the risk of tool theft. Most importantly, by staying proactive and vigilant to protect your valuable assets, you can continue to make money and get the job done.
If you're looking for advice and guidance on working with customers to install their dream bathrooms, speak to us at the bathroom showroom. With over 280 showrooms and a renowned history of working with the trade, we're the experts in all things bathrooms.
