Working on construction sites at night brings additional personal safety risks beyond the normal hazards of construction. Reduced lighting, fewer people on site, and the potential for intruders all increase vulnerability. Theft, vandalism, and even physical assault have occurred on UK construction sites during night hours. This talk covers the practical steps every night worker can take to stay safe and secure.
Key Hazards
Physical assault or intimidation from intruders or trespassers
Theft of personal belongings, plant, and materials from site
Reduced visibility making it difficult to identify approaching persons
Isolation if a security incident occurs with no colleagues nearby
Control Measures
Ensure adequate perimeter security including locked gates, fencing, and CCTV during night shifts.
Provide security lighting at entrances, compound areas, and along pedestrian routes on site.
Brief night shift workers on the procedure for reporting suspicious persons or activity.
Issue a direct contact number for the site security team or duty manager to all night workers.
Ensure night workers travel between site areas in pairs wherever the risk assessment requires it.
Lock all plant, cabins, and storage containers at the start of the night shift.
Report any security breaches, damaged fencing, or signs of intrusion to the supervisor immediately.
Carry a personal alarm or lone worker device with an SOS function during night shifts.
Do not confront or challenge intruders; withdraw to a safe location and call security or police.
Remember
Never confront or challenge an intruder; withdraw safely and call security or police
Lock all plant, cabins, and storage containers securely at the start of the night shift
Report any signs of intrusion, damaged fencing, or suspicious activity immediately
Carry a personal alarm or lone worker device with SOS capability at all times
Travel in pairs between site areas during night shifts wherever possible
Applicable Legislation: Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · MHSWR 1999 · CDM 2015 · Security Industry Authority (SIA) Regulations