PBC Today sat down with the team at Orbis Protect to discuss the rising number of cable theft incidents and the onsite security solutions you can put in place to prevent it
How has the price increase of scrap metal and copper affected cable theft incidents?
As the prices of these materials rise, they become increasingly appealing to thieves aiming to profit by selling them to scrap yards or on the black market. This escalation in price fosters a heightened demand for these valuable materials.
What is the importance of copper in the construction/utilities industry?
Copper’s combination of electrical and thermal conductivity, durability, malleability, and recyclability makes it essential across various sectors, including construction, electronics, telecommunications, renewable energy, and transportation.
Its significance is ever-growing, particularly in light of the transition towards more sustainable and energy-efficient technologies.
What are the dangers of cable theft?
Cable theft poses a substantial public safety risk, inflicting extensive economic, social, and environmental damage. Its impact is felt across critical sectors such as power, transportation, telecommunications, and emergency services, making it a pressing issue for both government and industry stakeholders.
The financial burden of replacing stolen cables and repairing damaged infrastructure is considerable, with such costs frequently passed on to consumers through increased bills, labour expenses, losses incurred during downtime, and elevated insurance premiums.
What security measures can be taken to protect against cable theft?
Protecting against cable theft requires a combination approach of physical security, technological solutions, and legislative measures. By employing a blend of these solutions, the risk of cable theft can be significantly reduced, safeguarding vital infrastructure and mitigates the financial and safety repercussions associated with theft.
How can Orbis specifically help protect against cable theft? (include specific products/technology)
Orbis Protect provides a comprehensive suite of effective solutions designed to prevent cable theft, integrating physical security, advanced technology, and forensic marking. Our range of products and services is tailored to meet specific site requirements and risk assessments, including:
- A range of security fencing solutions
- CCTV surveillance systems
- Motion detection alarms
- And round-the-clock monitoring
Additionally, the use of SelectaDNA—a DNA-based marking solution—ensures that cables are traceable and easily identifiable by law enforcement if stolen, significantly deterring criminal activity and facilitating recovery and prosecution efforts.
