With the price of used equipment being at an all time high, and the inherent vulnerability of job sites and yards during the upcoming long holiday weekends, CNA and the National Equipment Register (NER) are encouraging landscape contractors to implement strategies to protect against job site burglaries, vandalism and equipment theft. Following are a few tips on protecting sites and machines during the holidays:
1. Register your equipment on the NER Database today. Contact Stacy Kaufman at 212/297-1805 for more information.
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2. CNA offers an optional, free coverage endorsement (in most states) for CNA insureds which waives the deductible (up to $10,000) on any piece of stolen equipment that was registered with NER prior to the theft. Be sure this coverage endorsement is attached to your CNA equipment insurance policy — talk to your independent agent today.
Click here for more information on the NER CNA program.
3. Do not leave machines on unfenced properties or job sites. When possible, move machines to fenced yards or locate a secure lot near the job sites where you can temporarily store the machines, such as a car dealership.
4. Disable machines that have to be left on job sites. Have your field service mechanics disconnect batteries, pull fuses, relays or ignition circuits or remove tires.
5. Do not leave machines or materials on trailers - even if it will save you a few minutes when returning to work. "Trailered" equipment is much easier to steal.
6. Designate an employee or supervisor to make a random check of job sites throughout the holidays. Be sure this person knows what machines, tools and materials should be at each job site so that missing property is not overlooked.
| ABOUT INDUSTRY BUZZ |
Each week, our industry experts will tackle a variety of topics that affect the industry and discuss how those issues can impact you as a green industry professional. This week, CNA and NER offer tips on preventing equipment theft over the holidays. Be sure to share your thoughts on the Lawn & Landscape Message Board. Let's get the buzz going! |
7. Do not leave hand tools or small equipment at job sites. If lock boxes have to be left, be sure they are secured with additional locks, chains, etc.
8. Contractors and sub-contractors should advise job site security guards if any activity is expected as thieves are often familiar with the worksite and may even have credentials that allow them to be on the site or moving equipment. Be sure security guards have a contact number so that they can alert you of suspicious activity as needed.
9. Let employees know that management will be making spot checks of job sites. Let the employee grapevine work to your advantage.
Happy Holidays and Many Happy Recoveries!
Please remember that only the relevant insurance policy can provide the actual terms, coverages, amounts, conditions and exclusions for an insured. All products and services may not be available in all states and may be subject to change without notice. CNA is a service mark registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.