Sponsored by Maltaward, this piece addresses the rising challenge of construction site crime in the UK, introducing their new 3m 5-tonne concrete block as a cutting-edge security solution. With over 30 years as a leading civil engineering and security contractor, Maltaward’s extensive experience in providing comprehensive security solutions, including concrete barriers, fencing, and CCTV for diverse projects across the UK, establishes them as an authority on safeguarding construction environments.

The UK construction sector is seeing an increase in site-related thefts and crime. Recent data from BauWatch, as highlighted in their 2024 Construction Crime Index Report, suggests that crime costs the industry at least £800 million per year, and that’s only for incidents that are reported. Out of all the surveyed workers, 62% indicated that crime has increased.

A common denominator among the rise in building site-related crime is securing the perimeter and preventing unauthorised access. One of the most pivotal and preventative products during construction is heavy-duty concrete blocks and barriers, as well as resilient steel fencing, window screens, steel doors, and other products. 

Recognising this trend, coupled with the common belief that security is seen as a ‘low priority’ for many firms, concrete barrier and vacant property security specialist Maltaward has developed an innovative solution that promises to transform heavyweight security applications across the sector.

The company has launched its latest concrete security barrier: the 3m 5 tonne concrete block, a purpose-engineered temporary concrete block designed to provide enhanced site security whilst being practical to deploy.

Expertly engineered 5 tonne concrete blocks

These new barriers represent a profound step above existing concrete barrier products. Measuring 3200mm x 800mm x 800mm and weighing precisely 5 tonnes, these heavyweight blocks deliver the security equivalent of two standard 2½-tonne barriers in a single, more manageable unit. Combining the strength of two concrete barriers into more compact dimensions eliminates any risks that come with using multiple smaller blocks.

Manufactured using 50N/mm² Class A fire-resistant concrete and reinforced with M10 steel bars, these vertical concrete blocks are engineered to withstand the harshest of weather conditions without compromising on structural integrity. Their specifications ensure long-term durability, with a design life that exceeds a century, which makes them suitable for temporary and permanent use. Each block incorporates two 7½-tonne lifting pins cast directly into the concrete, with these anchor points only able to be positioned or moved using Hiab cranes or lifting clutches. 

For construction companies planning or in the midst of projects requiring heavy-duty security barriers to safeguard personnel and vehicle access, you won’t find a better or more resilient product on the market. These crash-tested and impossible-to-move barriers make unauthorised access or movement inevitable.

What’s the real-world effect of these barriers?

Construction professionals often find that temporary concrete barrier solutions, while effective, require multiple units or additional products to achieve sufficient security coverage and control over vacant or temporarily unoccupied building sites. For example, concrete blocks can provide a stable barrier to allow vehicles or people to pass through a site without obstructing ongoing work. 

The 3 metre 5 tonne, concrete blocks, with their substantially elevated weight and imposing presence, provide practical security while being inherently compatible with a range of other temporary building site security products. 

For example, these blocks can surround the perimeter of a building site to safeguard workers and the general public from coming into contact with heavy-duty machinery or equipment used during construction work. They serve as particularly reliable anti-ram barriers, which is handy for sites that have succumbed to vehicle damage in the past. The blocks, like other barriers, can be moved with the help of special equipment as site needs and access points change.

These new products have already found success. A recent client of Maltaward’s, based in London, saw seven temporary blocks deployed to enhance site security. Five units were strategically positioned surrounding the site perimeter alongside existing temporary metal fencing and an assortment of 6m concrete delta barriers. Two of the 3-tonne barriers were used to secure warehouse roller shutter doors.

Given how effective these barriers were in working alongside existing systems, rather than being out-and-out replacements, showcased their versatility and integration potential. Construction site managers can take influence from this deployment to build a layered and stronger overall security posture, based on their site access requirements, foot traffic and risk profile.

How to obtain 5-tonne concrete blocks

The introduction of these innovative blocks represents Maltaward’s continued commitment to helping their clients in the construction industry achieve their goals while safeguarding their vital assets. The product thoroughly complements their existing barrier range while addressing specific market demands for heavyweight barriers.

Available for both purchase and hire, the blocks are flexible and can be deployed to sites across the country, regardless of size or complexity. Maltaward’s diligent logistics network ensures they can deliver blocks promptly and arrange on-site placement without impacting project timelines. Their increased deployment suggests that the industry is recognising the need for purpose-engineered security products and solutions rather than opting for the cheapest or most generally available products as a means of preserving budgets. 

As security challenges evolve, innovations like these blocks provide the robust deterrent construction site managers need to protect their assets and keep projects ticking over nicely.

Available to buy or hire from just £100, Maltaward has an abundance of 3m 5 tonne blocks in stock. Contact them directly or download the brochure via their website.