How to Prevent Lost Tools on the Job Site - The Fence Tray

Have you ever lost tools while working on a project?

Let's just say it's a good thing I don't need a pen to write this article or it would've never been finished. If you're anything like me, you're no stranger to the lost screwdriver, wrench, or even drill or worse.

In construction, you need the right tools for the job. Part of your job is to not lose said tools. If your job is to not lose tools, then you need the right tools to not lose those tools. Ironic right?

The largest cost of construction is labor. The second largest? Tools and equipment. Specifically lost tools and equipment. Here's a fun fact for you: less than 25% of lost tools are recovered each year. And the estimated value of stolen equipment is estimated to be between $300 million and $1 billion each year!

Preventative measures are a necessity to ensure productivity and financial stability regarding tools. Do these five things to reduce lost equipment out at the job site.

1. Keep record of purchases

Each time you make a purchase, save that receipt! Every time a piece of equipment is lent out to an employee, keep detailed records so you have insight into the location of that item (it also helps prevent employee theft).

2. Create a daily tool listing

Have a checklist for all tools and equipment brought to the site that day, and when the work is done, double check that everything is back where it's supposed to be.

3. Walk through your job site

At the end of the day, everyone's in a rush to pack up and go home. But, it's important to do one last walk through to make sure no one left any tools or equipment out that will end up damaged, lost, or stolen. 

4. Lock it up

Please do not leave tools and equipment at the job site. See that it gets placed in a locked shed or tool crib, otherwise it's easy pickings for thieves to come through and swipe at night. 

5. Use the Fence Tray

The simplest one of all; attach the Fence Tray to any chain-link fence where you're working. Use it to place tools and equipment for easy access. Stop setting nails and wrenches in the grass and spending your time searching for them. Introduce the Fence Tray.

Time is money, and if you're even spending five minutes looking for lost tools, down goes your bottom line. Prevention is key here. Develop processes, stay organized, and use the right tools to prevent losing your tools, wasting hard-earned money and productivity.