Special Topics in Safety Management

Signs You May Be Vulnerable For Workplace Theft

This content was originally published in January 2000. For the latest in safety management, visit our archives or try our online compliance portal, Safety.BLR.com.

What are the top flaws which can result in the theft of materials from your worksite? The following checklist pinpoints weak spots that permit successful pilferage. Check it against your own standards.

  • Do you have some system for checking refuse or garbage as it goes out?
  • What about storage and inventory?  Is there a wall or door to keep outsiders from peeking in and seeing what’s inside?
  • If materials are withdrawn, is there a system of signed receipts?
  • Do employees have access to parking lots during lunch hours or rest periods? If so, are the lots guarded or monitored in some way?
  • Many employees have wanderlust. They like to roam around in seemingly innocent fashion.  Maybe it is just that. However, are they permitted to wander in unsupervised areas while carrying materials with them?
  • When trucks are loaded or unloaded, are tallies made immediately?  Are contents checked right away?
  • What kind of protection do you have for shipping areas?  Is it adequate to protect against theft?
  • Are you satisfied with the way tools are checked out?
  • Do you check individual production records against records of issued materials?
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