Construction sites present unique security challenges. They sit empty overnight. They contain valuable equipment and materials. They have many access points. They are often located in transitional neighborhoods where activity goes unnoticed.
A site manager in North San Jose once shared his frustration. “We locked everything,” he said. “We had cameras. We still lost valuable materials over a weekend. The cameras showed three people in hoods at 2 AM. That is all we got.”
This scenario plays out across Santa Clara County. This guide explains how security patrol and private security guards address construction site risks.
What gets taken: Copper wiring, power tools, generators, heavy machinery attachments, lumber, and fixtures.
When it happens: Overnight, on weekends, and during holidays when sites sit empty.
How it happens: Thieves cut fencing, drive vehicles onto the site, load equipment, and leave. The whole process often takes less than an hour.
Why cameras have limits: Hoods, masks, and stolen vehicles defeat identification. Video provides evidence but does not prevent theft.
How security patrol helps: Randomized vehicle patrols create uncertainty. A private security guard who appears at unpredictable times disrupts the planning process.
What happens: Unauthorized people enter the site. Sometimes teenagers explore. Sometimes people look for shelter. Sometimes individuals search for items to steal.
Consequences: Vandalism like spray paint and broken windows. Theft of smaller items. Creation of new access points through cut fences or propped doors.
How security patrol helps: Foot patrol officers inspect the perimeter. They check for signs of entry. They document any damage. Their presence alone discourages casual trespassing.
What fire watch is: Continuous patrol of a construction site or building when fire suppression systems are offline or not yet installed.
When it is required: During hot work like welding or cutting. When fire alarms are being tested or repaired. In new construction before systems are operational. During demolition.
What fire watch involves: A designated private security guard patrols specific areas. They look for smoke, flames, or overheating equipment. They maintain communication with site management. They coordinate with emergency services if needed.
How long it lasts: Until the fire suppression system is restored or until hot work concludes.
A reputable security agency conducts a site assessment first. This assessment includes a perimeter walk to identify all access points. It includes an equipment inventory with photographs of valuable items. It includes a lighting assessment to find dark areas. Finally, it includes risk prioritization to identify the most vulnerable spots.
A security patrol officer performs several tasks.
Exterior checks: Confirm all gates are locked and fencing is intact. Inspect for fresh cuts or bent fencing. Check storage containers for tampering.
Equipment inspection: Visually confirm valuable equipment remains in place. Photograph any items that appear moved. Document serial numbers for insurance purposes.
Incident response: If trespassers are observed, the officer assesses the situation. They request identification and ask the people to leave. If the people refuse, the officer contacts local authorities. If a fire is observed, the officer evacuates the area and contacts emergency services. If theft is in progress, the officer observes from a safe distance, documents descriptions, and contacts authorities.
Every shift produces a written report. The report includes patrol times and inspection times. It includes observations about what was normal, unusual, or concerning. It includes photographs of any issues. It includes communication notes with site management.
Fire watch is often misunderstood. Here is what it actually involves.
| Scenario | Typical Duration | Patrol Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Hot work (welding, cutting) | Duration plus required after-hours | Continuous patrol of work area |
| Sprinkler system offline | Until system is restored | Continuous patrol of affected area |
| New construction (no system) | Until occupancy or installation | Patrol during working hours |
| Demolition | Duration of demolition | Continuous patrol |
The officer walks a designated patrol route at specified intervals. They look for smoke, unusual odors, overheating equipment, and sparks. They check that fire extinguishers are present and accessible. They maintain communication with the site supervisor. They document patrol times and observations.
Fire watch officers do not fight fires beyond using a portable extinguisher. They are not firefighters. They do not enter burning structures. They do not disable or reset fire alarm systems.
When evaluating security companies San Jose for construction site security, ask these questions.
Fire watch requires specific knowledge. Officers need to know what to look for, how often to patrol, what to document, and when to call for emergency services.
Listen for: A description of training content, not just a “yes” answer.
Some security agencies provide detailed equipment logging. Others do not.
Listen for: Specifics about inventory frequency, documentation methods, and how information is shared.
Different sites have different policies. Some want immediate law enforcement contact. Others prefer verbal warnings first.
Listen for: A clear, step-by-step protocol that matches your preferences.
Construction security requires different skills than retail or residential security.
Listen for: Names of current or recent construction clients in Santa Clara County.
Before contracting with a security agency, confirm these items:
Griffin provides construction site security throughout San Jose and Santa Clara. [Contact us for a site assessment.]
Q1: Do construction sites need security guards?
A: Many sites benefit from patrols, especially those with valuable equipment or past incidents.
Q2: What is fire watch?
A: Continuous patrol when fire alarms or sprinklers are offline. Local codes may require it.
Q3: How does equipment logging work?
A: Guards visually inspect and document equipment status during each patrol shift.
Q4: Can a guard detain a trespasser on my site?
A: Guards have limited citizen’s arrest authority under California law for certain violations.
Q5: Do you serve construction sites in Santa Clara?
A: Yes, throughout Santa Clara County including Milpitas and Sunnyvale.
Q6: Can security patrols be customized for my schedule?
A: Yes, patrol frequency and timing are adjustable based on your needs.
Q7: How are incidents reported to site management?
A: Written reports are provided after each shift, with immediate calls for emergencies.
Q8: What happens if a guard sees a fire?
A: The officer evacuates the area, contacts emergency services, and provides location information.
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