The Top 5 Tools Stolen in the UK

🛠️ 1. Drills

Drills are among the most frequently stolen tools, with over 380 reported thefts in 2020 alone, equating to more than £50,000 in losses. Their compact size and high resale value make them attractive targets for thieves.ToolstationMoving Intelligence

Protection Tips:

🔨 2. Saws

Saws, including circular and reciprocating types, are commonly stolen due to their portability and demand in the second-hand market. In 2020, nearly 200 saws were reported stolen, with a total value of approximately £1,372. Toolstation

Protection Tips:

  • Tool Marking: Use UV pens or forensic marking solutions to label your saws discreetly. Simply Business UK
  • Secure Parking: When parking your vehicle, position it so that the rear or side doors are against a wall or sturdy fence, limiting access. Simply Business UK+1FMB+1

🔫 3. Nail Guns

Nail guns are high-value items often targeted by thieves. In 2020, 61 nail guns were reported stolen, resulting in a total loss of £5,973. Moving Intelligence+6RAC+6Able Skills Ltd+6Toolstation

Protection Tips:

  • Tool Registration: Register your nail gun with databases like Immobilise or SelectaDNA to aid in recovery if stolen. Simply Business UK
  • Secure Storage: Store nail guns in secure, lockable storage units when not in use.RAC

🔧 4. Toolboxes

Toolboxes themselves are often stolen, as they contain multiple valuable tools. In South Yorkshire, 395 toolboxes were reported stolen between January 2020 and July 2021. BPI Auctions

Protection Tips:

  • Locking Mechanisms: Invest in high-quality, lockable toolboxes to deter opportunistic theft.Tauro Workwear
  • Inventory Management: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of tools within each toolbox, including serial numbers and descriptions. FMB

🌿 5. Hedge Trimmers

Hedge trimmers are commonly stolen due to their portability and demand. Approximately 230 hedge trimmers were reported stolen in South Yorkshire alone. BPI Auctions+2Able Skills Ltd+2Howden Insurance+2Toolstation

Protection Tips:

  • Tool Marking: Mark your hedge trimmer with visible identifiers, such as your name or company logo. Tauro Workwear
  • Secure Storage: When not in use, store hedge trimmers in secure, locked areas to prevent unauthorized access.

🔐 Additional Security Measures

  • Van Security: Install alarms, deadlocks, and GPS trackers in your vehicle to enhance security. FMB+2Tauro Workwear+2RAC+2
  • Site Security: Implement site-wide security measures, such as perimeter fencing, lighting, and surveillance cameras.
  • Insurance: Ensure your tools are covered by insurance, and keep records of receipts and serial numbers for claims. FMB+1Tauro Workwear+1

By understanding which tools are most at risk and implementing these protective measures, tradespeople can safeguard their equipment and reduce the likelihood of theft on construction sites.