Why video surveillance on scaffolding matters

Site scaffolding monitored by Ace DefenceChurches are more than just places of worship: they often serve as community centres, historical landmarks and even home to valuable artwork and artifacts. When scaffolding is erected for maintenance or restoration projects, the vulnerable structures require an extra layer of security. That is where having a video surveillance system monitoring the scaffolding and the building becomes an important deterrent to crime.

There have been some high-profile examples of scaffolding being used to access churches for vandalism:

• In 2018 the church of St Martin-in-the Fields in central London was damaged when vandals threw scaffolding poles from the roof. The incident caused significant damage to the church’s stonework and stained-glass windows.
• In 2019 Christ Church Cathedral in Oxford was also damaged by vandals who threw scaffolding poles from the roof. The poles caused damage to the cathedral’s stonework and gargoyles.
• In 2019 Salisbury Cathedral was vandalised when scaffolding was used to access the cathedral’s roof. The vandals spray-painted graffiti on the roof and damaged leadwork.
• In 2020 scaffolding was set up at St Giles’s Cathedral in Edinburgh for essential repairs. However, the scaffolding was soon targeted by vandals who spray-painted graffiti on the cathedral’s walls.
  

That sort of opportunist damage is the hardest to guard against without round-the-clock monitoring of cameras to detect intruders rapidly. For both churches and scaffolding companies, video surveillance systems offer a range of benefits that go beyond just deterring crime.

Benefits for churches

Scaffolding creates easy access points for vandalism and theft. Video surveillance provides constant vigilance, deterring potential criminals and allowing for faster response times in case of an incident. Knowing the church is under video surveillance offers peace of mind for clergy, staff and the congregation. Valuable religious artefacts, historical documents and on-going restoration projects are better protected.

In the unfortunate event of an accident on the scaffolding, video footage can provide valuable evidence for insurance claims and potential legal disputes. It can also help identify safety hazards before they cause harm. Video footage can be used to address concerns from the community regarding potential damage to the church during construction work. It builds transparency and accountability for both the church and the scaffolding company.

An Ace Defence camera protecting a site compoundBenefits for scaffolding companies

Video surveillance systems deter theft of expensive scaffolding materials, which can become a danger to the public if brackets are loosened. It can also help prevent vandalism that could damage the scaffolding and delay project completion. By demonstrating a commitment to security, scaffolding companies can enhance their public image and attract new clients, particularly those managing sensitive projects like churches.

Video footage can be used to resolve disputes with the church regarding potential damage caused by the scaffolding. That helps maintain a positive working relationship and avoids costly legal battles. In the event of an accident on the scaffolding, video footage can be used to support insurance claims, making the process faster and smoother.

Using a video surveillance system on scaffolding is a win-win situation for both churches and scaffolding companies. It provides a significant layer of security, fosters peace of mind, protects valuable assets and aids in resolving potential disputes. By working together and choosing the right video surveillance system, churches and scaffolding companies can ensure the safety and integrity of the place of worship during any maintenance or restoration project.

Choosing the right CCTV system

Strategically placed cameras should cover all areas around the scaffolding, including access points and vulnerable areas of the church. Because construction sites are exposed to the elements, it is important to ensure the cameras are weatherproof and can withstand harsh weather conditions. For 24/7 monitoring, night vision capabilities are crucial to deter crime after dark. The ability to access live footage and recordings remotely allows for proactive security measures. Secure data storage solutions are essential to ensure footage is protected and readily available for review if needed.

Ace Defence Ltd are approved installers of roof security systems for Ecclesiastical and Trinitas insurance companies. Working with an NSI-accredited monitoring centre, they provide round-the-clock protection for the vital infrastructure of church buildings and for temporary scaffolding installations. They are always happy to work with churches and their scaffolding contractors to plan video systems for temporary works or integrate them with systems already supplied to protect church roofs.

For further information visit acedefence.com