Is your construction site well protected?
As a general contractor, you're vulnerable to vandalism, theft and loss at any of your construction sites. There are certain steps you can take to help reduce the risk of fire, theft and vandalism. Here are our suggestions for keeping safe.
Reduce the risk of fire
Here are a few tips to keep you and your employees safe on the construction site.1
- Keep the main access lanes clear, so fire department vehicles and staff can enter the site.
- Keep access lanes to fire hydrants and fire hose connectors clear at all times.
- Keep approved portable fire extinguishers accessible at all times.
- Designate certain roads as being access lanes or emergency exits in the event of an evacuation.
- Equip the escape routes with a power supply and electric lights.
- When you use a heating appliance (propane, diesel or natural gas), make sure there is an 8-foot clearance around it to prevent a fire.
Reduce the risk of vandalism and theft
- To prevent intruders, keep the construction site fenced off from the public and well lit at night.
- Consider installing a security system to reduce the risk of intruders.
- Don't leave machinery or materials on the construction site when it's closed.
- Store equipment and tools in safe, locked locations.
Business insurance: a valuable asset
After taking the appropriate steps, ask yourself: in the event of a loss, would you be well protected?
Builder's risk insurance covers the risk of loss or deterioration in buildings under construction.
- The value of goods (new materials and supplies, including subcontractor costs and administrative costs).
- The risk of collapse (for example, ground movement and wind storms).
- Theft or vandalism (on a construction project that is underway).
Tools and portable equipment insurance covers the risk of direct material loss or direct physical damage to tools and portable equipment (accessories—saws, lasers, hammers, press brake machines, generators—spare parts, etc.).
The 4 steps that project managers must take on construction sites
As of January 1, 2023, all construction sites in Quebec must have a prevention program. Project managers must:2
- Develop a prevention program to identify and eliminate risks to the health, safety and physical and mental well-being of workers.
- Create a job-site committee to foster collaboration and improve workplace health and safety management.
- Make recommendations to the job-site committee and the health and safety coordinator.
- Make sure a health and safety coordinator is onsite from start to finish.
We can help you find the right coverage for your business
To learn more about insurance for construction sites and the coverages available, contact a Desjardins property and casualty insurance agent at 1-866-472-8848.
Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins General Insurance Inc., provider of auto, property and business insurance. These tips are provided for information and prevention purposes only. They are general in nature, and Desjardins Insurance cannot be held liable for them. We recommend using caution and consulting a property and casualty insurance agent for comprehensive, tailored advice.