In Lancashire, construction sites are highly vulnerable to vandalism, metal theft, and equipment theft. These risks frequently cause delays in project completion and result in thousands of dollars in insurance losses.
According to CrimeRate UK, 72 crimes per 1,000 people were reported in the last 12 months. Within the county, Blackpool, Accrington, and Preston top the list of crime hotspots, all of which are home to major construction and industrial activity.
For developers, contractors, and site managers, the question is not whether they need to hire security, but rather how many manned security guards in Lancashire are required to safeguard assets, ensure insurance compliance, and keep projects on schedule.
This blog dissects factors, crime patterns, and best practices for construction site security in Lancashire.
Table of Contents
Why Construction Sites in Lancashire Require Proper Security Guards
Compared to other workplaces, construction sites are unique, as they often hold a concentration of high-value assets. This leaves them exposed overnight and at weekends. Unguarded sites face serious threats, including theft of machinery and equipment, metal theft, vandalism, arson, and unauthorised access.
In addition to the protection of assets, insurers and regulators increasingly expect manned guarding security services as part of compliance for site safety. For instance:
- HSE regulations focus on securing equipment and access control.
- Insurers will deny claims if there is no manned security, i.e., the presence of personnel.
For Lancashire’s active building sites in Blackburn, Preston, and Burnley, hiring security guards is not merely a case of prevention; it’s a case of compliance, reputation, and continuity.
Factors Influencing the Number of Manned Security Guards Needed
Key points to consider for Lancashire building sites:
Site Size & Layout
Small sites with a single gate may require only one security guard, whereas large, multi-access sites may need multiple.
Location & Crime Rate
Based on CrimeRate statistics, Lancashire experiences 72 crimes per 1,000 residents, with Blackpool, Accrington, and Preston being the top hotspots for theft.
Asset Value
The higher the value of machinery, vehicles, or stock onsite, the greater the need for continuous monitoring and multiple guards.
Number of Entry/Exit Points
More gates require more guards to ensure proper access control, record visitors, and prevent unauthorised entry.
Insurance & Compliance
Insurers often insist on overnight or rotation patrols. Lack of security can invalidate coverage after a loss.
Vulnerability Periods
Security guards are deployed to cover weekends, holidays, and other periods when sites are closed or lightly manned.
Past Incidents
Recent burglaries, vandalism, or trespass warrant additional mitigation—usually an indicator of ramping up guard levels.
Construction Site Security Assessments
Before deciding on the number of security guards, business owners must obtain an on-site risk assessment report from a security company in Lancashire. This enables them to choose guard counts based on the risk profile.
Asset Register and Risk Assessment
A proper security audit begins with an asset inventory, encompassing everything from equipment and tools to valuable materials. Each is examined for its monetary value and risk level, which enables one to determine where protection should be prioritised.
Site Layout Mapping
The assessors then draw a comprehensive site plan, marking perimeters, weak areas, lighting coverage, and entry/exit points. This enables security teams to map useful patrol routes and maximise guard positioning.
Surveillance and Alarm Coverage
It is of paramount importance to spot blind spots in CCTV and alarm systems. By filling surveillance gaps, guards can ensure that no part of the site is vulnerable to potential intruders.
Reviewing Access Control Measures
An inspection of gates, visitor records, and ID checks identifies shortcomings in visitor movement around the site. Tighter visitor-management processes decrease the likelihood of unauthorised access.
Learning from Past Incidents
Analysing past security incidents or would-be thefts offers valuable lessons, shaping prevention strategies specifically suited to the site’s unique history.
Meeting Stakeholder Expectations
Lastly, the evaluation also considers the needs of clients, insurers, and regulatory authorities, ensuring compliance and confidence at all levels.
Security Guard Recommendations by Site Size
The actual need for manned security guards may vary based on site-specific risk. However, the table below provides a general overview of staffing levels.
| Site Size & Asset Value | Risk Level | Recommended Guard Numbers | Example Duties |
| Small Site (<£50k, 1 access point) | Low-Medium | 1 guard (static/mobile, nights) | Gatehouse, visitor logging |
| Medium Site (£50-250k, multi-gate) | Medium-High | 1–2 guards (foot patrol rotation) | Gatehouse, zone patrols, vehicle checks |
| Large/Multi-phase (>£250k, complex) | High | 2–4 guards (24/7, gatehouse/night) | Access control, vehicle screening, perimeter patrols |
Why Partner with a Professional Manned Guarding Service Provider
A professional security firm deploys SIA-licensed guards who have been trained to manage construction site risks, including theft, trespassing, and vandalism. Security guarding services are extremely versatile, offering static or mobile patrols for daytime, nighttime, or rapid response situations.
Guards complement CCTV, alarms, and monitoring systems by providing a multi-layered defence. They also keep thorough incident logs that help ensure compliance and insurance claims.
With flexible staffing that scales with every stage of the project and regional expertise within Lancashire, manned guarding offers a proactive and personalised solution to securing valuable assets and sites.
Still wondering if your construction site is better off with minimal security guarding service, then check this blog ‘Retail Theft, Vandalism, Break-ins — Is Your Business Safe Without a Security Services in Lancashire?’ to know more.
Securing Construction Sites with Manned Security Guards in Lancashire
Calculating the number of manned security guards required for a Lancashire construction site depends on site size, crime risk, and asset value. With local hotspots such as Blackpool and Preston having high crime rates, the stakes are high. Data-driven security analysis, combined with the exemplary manned guarding service, ensures safety, compliance, and peace of mind.
As a trusted security business in Lancashire, Region Security Guarding offers free risk assessments to determine the number of security guards needed to protect construction sites. As an SIA-approved contractor, our experts tailor security services to meet the specific needs identified in the assessment report.
Get in touch with us today to arrange a site-specific risk assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many manned security guards do the Lancashire construction sites require?
Small sites located in low-crime areas may only require one guard per shift, whereas medium- or large/high-risk sites typically require 2–4 guards for complete coverage and compliance.
2. What are the primary tasks for manned security guards on-site?
Typical duties include observing access points, recording visitors, conducting perimeter and zone checks, responding to alarms, and assisting the police as necessary.
3. Do all guards require an SIA licence?
Yes. Only SIA-licensed guards satisfy legal and insurance requirements for Lancashire construction site security.
4. How does the location at the site influence the number of guards?
Sites close to Lancashire’s high-crime areas, such as Blackpool and Preston, typically require more security personnel to deter theft and comply with insurance requirements.
Business Security You Can Rely On
Trusted by leading businesses nationwide for reliable, 24/7 protection.
or call 0330 912 2033
