Metal theft has long been a problem but according to the latest figures, things are getting worse.
In 2021–2022, over 30,115 offences were reported in England and Wales – a whopping increase of more than 10,000 from the previous year and the highest number recorded since 2013.
It’s a serious issue that costs the UK economy an estimated £1 billion each year.
That’s more than £19m each week – ouch!
Metal theft is a concern for businesses of all shapes and sizes, but the good news is, there are simple changes you can make to avoid being a target.
Read on to discover how to keep your business and property safe with the help of HR Kilns.
Who is a risk?
Any industry is vulnerable to metal theft, but those particularly at risk include transport, energy, construction, and telecommunications. Locations such as railways, construction sites, and warehouses are especially under threat.
But if there’s metal, there’s temptation – meaning that offices, public spaces, and even churches are not exempt from this risk.
Which metals hold the most value?
Virtually all metals hold scrap value, but some of the most lucrative include:
-Steel
-Copper
-Aluminium
-Brass
-Lead
-Titanium
-Gold
Not just a financial issue
The cost of metal theft dominates headlines, but for businesses, the knock-on effect runs much deeper.
Financial losses aside, stolen parts and materials can lead to all kinds of disruption, with unplanned downtime impacting timescales, deadlines, and day-to-day business.
Theft of metal parts can also leave potential dangers exposed, making sites hazardous and putting lives at risk.
What can be done?
The Scrap Metal Dealers Act 2013 was brought in to try and reduce the problem, but whilst this made a difference initially, metal theft is back on the increase.
It’s a big problem and one that isn’t going away. So, what can you do to protect yourself and your business?
One of the most obvious ways to reduce the risk is to improve basic security measures.
This could include simple things such as installing security lighting, investing in CCTV cameras, and improving alarm systems.
Other preventative steps include avoiding storing metals out in the open and/or in visible locations. Trying to order stock on an ‘as needed’ basis is also advisable.
Perhaps the most effective solution, though, is to switch away from metal wherever it is feasible and safe to do so.
Switch to GRP
Which is where we come in. At HR Kilns, we produce a wide range of products from glass reinforced plastic, known as GRP.
This composite material is a type of fibreglass made from plastic reinforced with fine glass fibres. It holds no resale value and is therefore of no interest to would-be thieves.
What’s really exciting about switching to GRP products is that whilst you’re actively reducing theft risk, you’re actually increasing quality!
GRP products are incredibly durable and long-lasting. Sought after for being non-corrosive, non-conductive, and fire-resistant, they are low maintenance and invariably help to enhance safety.
Products made from GRP are also exceptionally strong. A simple switch – such as swapping steel fencing for GRP fencing – will not only protect you from the potential theft of the fence itself, but will also offer you a low-maintenance and incredibly robust boundary. It’s a win-win.
We also can’t forget that GRP is much lighter than many metals – a comparative GRP product is up to 75% lighter than the equivalent item in steel, making it an easier and safer alternative to work with.
Stay safe with GRP products from HR Kilns
Keen to protect your business and property from theft? Then make the smart switch today.
Take a closer look at the great range of GRP products we have available. You’ll find everything from step covers, fencing, and ladders to floorings, platforms, and gratings.
Alternatively, if you’d like to find out more about the advantages of GRP and how else it could benefit your business, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.