In the sprawling landscapes of South African construction sites, a silent battle rages against crime and theft, a battle that often goes unnoticed but leaves a significant dent in project budgets. A recent study published in the ‘Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation’ (translated as ‘Journal of Construction Project Management and Innovation’) sheds light on the pivotal role of quantity surveyors in mitigating these security costs, offering a beacon of hope for the industry.
Nishani Harinarain, a researcher from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, led a qualitative study that delved into the challenges of accounting for security expenses in the South African construction industry. Through interviews with quantity surveyors, construction contractors, and private security professionals, Harinarain uncovered a compelling narrative of strategic planning and cost efficiency.
The study revealed that quantity surveyors are not merely number crunchers but strategic partners in the fight against construction site crime. By integrating advanced security technologies and planning for security measures early in the budgeting process, they ensure that projects stay within financial limits while maintaining robust security.
“Quantity surveyors play a crucial role in managing security costs,” Harinarain explained. “Their ability to evaluate cost-benefit trade-offs and incorporate security measures early in the budgeting process is instrumental in achieving cost efficiency and enhancing project success.”
The findings highlight a trend towards proactive security planning, where the integration of security technologies such as surveillance systems, access control, and biometric identification is becoming increasingly common. These technologies, when strategically planned and budgeted for, can provide immediate and long-term cost savings, ultimately enhancing the overall success and safety of construction projects.
The commercial impacts of this research are profound, particularly for the energy sector, where construction projects often involve high-value assets and infrastructure. By adopting the strategies outlined in Harinarain’s study, energy companies can mitigate security costs, reduce the risk of theft and vandalism, and ensure the timely completion of projects.
As the construction industry continues to evolve, the role of quantity surveyors in managing security costs will become increasingly important. Harinarain’s research offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of security planning, paving the way for future developments in the field.
In an industry where every rand counts, the strategic planning and cost efficiency advocated by Harinarain’s study could be the key to unlocking new levels of success and safety in construction projects across South Africa.