Lock and Load: Six Essential Tool Safety Strategies

Here are seven essential tips to keep your tools safe:

1. Register Tools and Batteries for Extended Guarantee

One of the simplest and most effective ways to safeguard your tools is by registering them for an extended guarantee, it’s amazing that so many tradespeople still fail to do so. Many companies extend the guarantee by up to three years if you do it within 30 days of purchase.

For example, MILWAUKEE® extends the guarantee for up to three years upon registration, if carried out by an approved dealer. Not only can this save you money in potential repair costs but it allows the company to track and recover tools if they are stolen and subsequently recovered by the police. Taking a few minutes to register your tools can provide peace of mind and financial protection.

2. Leverage Advanced Tracking Technologies

Advanced Bluetooth-based tracking technologies, which leverage a mobile phone’s GPS can further enhance your tool's security and help you locate missing items. For those who want the best on the market, always opt for tracking tools that are highly durable and capable of withstanding the toughest job site conditions (IP68 rating and extreme temperatures from +60°C to -20°C).

Other benefits to look out for include:

• Long Battery Life: Ensure devices provide a 3-year run time with a built-in, non-replaceable battery, eliminating the need to stock spares.

• Enhanced Identification: Some devices even have a built-in speaker that helps identify specific items even if they’re not visible.

• Extended Range: Identify the beacon range - 30m is a good rule of thumb and ‘duty cycles’ for efficient tracking.

• Movement Alerts: Some contain ‘accelerometers’ that alert you if your item has been moved or used without authorisation.

The benefit is that a Bluetooth-based system leverages the phones GPS, demonstrating the power of ‘network effects’. As more people use these apps, the service improves. This creates a positive feedback loop: more users attract even more users, which in turn densifies the network. This denser network coverage becomes increasingly valuable for identifying stolen tools across the country.

3. Purchase Tools that offer digital protection

Investing in tools equipped with ‘protection tech’ can be a game changer and can even work to recover stolen items. Some manufacturers offer free apps, providing an array of features to enhance tool security:

• Important Data Capture: Apps can record essential information such as model number, serial number, and date code, as well as the purchase receipt, which streamlines the guarantee service. This information could also be crucial to insurance claims and police reporting.

• Digital inventories: You can also use apps to create digital inventories, logging detailed descriptions and photos of each tool. This saves time writing up external lists and provides a backup in case written notes are destroyed or go missing. 

• QR code enabled: Small, postage-stamp sized QR codes can be attached to tools, to help keep track of their whereabouts but also to simplify the registration process. This can also help deliver quick and effective firmware updates.

• Tool Disablement: If your tool is stolen, apps can disable it for you, making it unusable for the thief. Re-enabling stolen tools illegally often costs more than the tool's value and requires specialised expertise, making this a highly effective deterrent. However, when recovered, manufacturers can re-enable in no time. 

• Theft Notification: Guarantee service agents are alerted if a stolen tool is brought in for service.

Leading manufacturers let you register tools from any brand, making it a versatile tool management system.

4. Use Secure Storage Solutions

Storing your tools in a secure, locked toolbox or chest is a fundamental step in preventing theft. Investing in high-quality, heavy-duty storage solutions that are difficult to break into is a must. Portable job boxes and tool chests with reinforced locks can deter opportunistic thieves and provide an extra layer of protection.

5. Install Job Site Security Measures

Enhancing security at your job site can significantly reduce the risk of tool theft. Install security cameras and motion sensor lights to monitor activity and deter potential thieves. Visible security measures act as a strong deterrent, making it clear that your job site is monitored and protected.

6. Educate Your Team

Finally, educating your team about the importance of tool security and the measures you have in place is crucial. Make sure everyone understands how to use the security features attached or available to your tools – even those less familiar with apps and tech. 

By implementing these seven strategies, tradesmen can significantly reduce the risk of tool theft and extend the life of their valuable equipment. Taking a proactive approach to tool security not only protects your investment but also ensures that you can continue to work efficiently and effectively. So, take the time to register your tools, invest in security features, and educate your team — your tools and bottom line will thank you.