How to prevent copper cable / copper tape theft?

The theft of copper earth tape can be costly, disruptive and potentially life threatening. However, there are steps you can take to prevent it.

Why is copper theft a problem?

Despite efforts to make metal resale more difficult, there still remains a risk of theft. It’s also not just substations who are at risk, even heritage sites are being targeted. When vandalism or theft does occur it can cause a number of challenges, such as:

• Cost– The cost to replace copper tape plus the repair of damages caused by the thieves can run into tens of thousands of pounds.
• Disruption– Metal theft can result in outages on electrical networks which causes disruption to thousands of homes and businesses.

Traditional Fixings

Conventional fixing for copper and aluminium earth tape is a metal or plastic fixing cleat. Unfortunately this type of fixing makes the material very easy to steal as the cleat offers no security benefits.

In the past a steel anchor bolt has been used as a deterrent but even this has downsides. Steel fixings are susceptible to excessive corrosion and after a short period of time the fixing starts to break down. A process which is accelerated in bund areas where water is regularly present. This process also requires a barrier between a steel fixing and earth tape to prevent an electrolytic reaction. Using a plastic washer involves more material, is time consuming and makes it easy for thieves to use a bolster chisel to knock the heads off as the fixing head is raised from the earth tape. Tinning is an alternative barrier method but again is time consuming and has potential Health & Safety issues with concrete possibly exploding when excessive heat is applied.

What can be done to prevent copper tape theft?

The good news is there are steps you can take to deter metal theft attacks:

• Implement additional security measures:Such as installing lights, alarms, CCTV and ensuring any surrounding trees/plants (which could hide criminal activity) are cut back.
• Take extra care while any building works are in progress:Secure or removing scaffolding, building equipment and ladders which could make life easier for thieves.
• Security markings:Use a forensic security marking system to mark your metal and display the signs as a visual deterrent.

Whilst these measures can deter thieves from entering the site, you can also prevent the tape being taken in the first instance.