Minimizing Theft on Construction Sites in Ghana: The Perspective of Contractors in the Upper West Region of Ghana

Abstract

Theft has been recognized as a major problem in the construction industry. Theft have an impact on the potential profitability of a construction project and also on the overall success of the construction industry. This research is set out to explore the most efficient and appropriate security measures to employ at construction sites in Ghana that would minimize or eliminate the incidence of theft on construction sites. This study was conducted in the upper west region of Ghana with a relatively homogenous population of contractors. The study was conducted using a quantitative research approach in which questionnaires were administered to contractors. The results from the analysis of the data ranked various security measures based on their Mean of frequency. Lighting of sites, fencing of sites and locking of gates were ranked above other security measures as being more efficient in preventing theft both when construction sites are located in densely and sparsely populated areas. The results indicated that employment of watchman is the most efficient and most used security measure on construction sites with security cameras, alarm systems and warning signs constituting the least used security measures. Effective implementation of the most critical security measures whiles giving some consideration to other security measures would most likely protect sites from theft whiles ensuring that value for money invested in securing sites is also achieved.

Keywords:Building materials, construction sites, plants, Security, theft, watchman.

DOI: 10.7176/CER/12-5-03

Publication date:May 31^st 2020