Construction Law
How to Prevent Trespassing on Your Construction Site
On July 1, 2020, two men were arrested after climbing a construction crane in Sarasota. These trespassers ignored clearly marked signs as well as warnings from a security operator. Unfortunately, the threat of criminal charges and physical injury was not enough to discourage these men from trespassing. Although these two men managed to avoid injury, this story could have easily taken a deadly turn.
Let’s take a look at how you can help prevent trespassing on your construction sites. Although it’s impossible to completely deter people who blatantly ignore warnings, a few changes could influence whether or not a trespasser makes a late-night visit. For assistance making your project sites as safe as possible, consult the Tampa construction attorneys at Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
No Trespassing Signs
Not all trespassers have malicious intent. In fact, not all trespassers realize that they’re trespassing in the first place. This is why, in addition to proper fencing, you should post “Keep Out” signs around your jobsite. Florida Statute 810.011 requires that signs include the words “no trespassing” in letters not less than two inches in height and be placed “not more than 500 feet apart along, and at each corner of, the boundaries of the land.” These signs must include the name of the land’s owner, lessee, or occupant. Although warning signs may not completely prevent trespassers or burglars, they can at least deter people from wandering onto your jobsite.
Related: Does Construction Insurance Cover Theft?
Lights, Cameras, Alarms!
Trespassers are going to be far less likely to enter your property if they believe they could be held accountable for their actions. Something as simple as having motion-activated lights that activate during off-hours can be enough to startle a trespasser. Cameras and alarms can be an even better investment. Not only will they deter trespassing, but they can also catch would-be burglars in the act. These are cost-effective measures that could save you money in the long run and prevent theft as well as injury on your project sites.
Related: Preventing Theft in Construction
Fencing Around Your Project Site
Although there are few regulations pertaining to fencing and security, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a number of regulations pertaining to perimeter fencing, especially when it comes to fall hazards or dangerous equipment. Remember, you must have a fence or barrier between people and hazards. If you’ve done your job to ensure that you are complying with OSHA regulations and placing barriers between the public and hazards on your jobsite, these same barriers should effectively deter trespassers. For assistance ensuring that your jobsite is secure and compliant with federal regulations, consult the Tampa construction attorneys from Cotney Attorneys & Consultants.
If you would like to speak with our Tampa construction lawyers, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.