A fence doesn’t always have to be permanent – many contractors know this, but still others aren’t aware of how beneficial temp fencing can be to their project’s budget concerns. Temporary fencing is always more affordable and cost effective for projects requiring a small amount of security and specific boundary definition. The biggest hurdle to taking advantage of temp fencing is, however, figuring out if it’s the right fit for your project.
Do your project’s security regulations require a fence?
This is often the case for high-rise building projects, or others requiring hard hat sign postings and compliance. A temporary fence can provide a definite point of entry to the project and ensure that all employees entering and leaving see the same signs and know the same safety regulations required on site.
Some contracting regulations even expressly require a fence to satisfy security guidelines. Regardless, a contracting project that needs a fence is best served with a temporary one.
Is your project site vulnerable to theft or vandalism?
Many project sites have expensive equipment or construction materials lying around that, if unprotected, could easily be stolen or damaged by unwanted, after-hours guests. Temporary fencing doesn’t provide a top-of-the-line security deterrent for your project on its own – but, when paired with other security measures, a temp fence can help to deter criminal activity on your project site.
For especially sensitive project sites, consider investing in video surveillance and access control as well. Together with a temporary fence, these additional precautions will pay for themselves in peace of mind and greater asset retention.
Will your project produce lots of waste and debris?
While a temp fence won’t keep in harmful gases or liquids, it will prevent more solid wastes from blowing into nearby lots or business areas. If you’re expecting lots of workers to work on your project, a temporary fence will ensure any waste accidentally discarded won’t interfere with the surrounding commercial buildings or homes.
In a similar way, temporary fencing will prevent trash and other debris from blowing out of your project’s dumpsters or disposal bins into adjacent areas. It’s better to be safe than sorry when trash is concerned; many cities and towns have hefty fines for littering and your project may be liable if the litter blows from your job site.
