Site hoarding and perimeter fencing keep the public out of a dangerous workplace and keep plant and materials secure. If a panel blows over onto a pavement, or a gap lets a child onto site, the consequences can be severe. Hoardings must be regularly inspected to make sure they are still doing their job.
Why perimeter checks matter
Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, the principal contractor must take reasonable steps to stop unauthorised people getting onto the site. For most sites, that means a continuous perimeter of hoarding or fencing - commonly around 2 metres high - with controlled gates and clear warning signage.
Solid timber or panel hoardings are temporary works. They should be built to an approved temporary works design, recorded in the temporary works register, and inspected regularly during the job - and especially after high winds or vehicle impacts.
What to check on a hoarding or perimeter inspection
- Panels - secure, upright and undamaged, with no gaps
- Fixings and clips - fencing panels double-clipped and seated in weighted feet
- Bracing and ballast - in place and as per the temporary works design
- Gates - closing and locking properly, kept shut when not in use
- Signage - warning and mandatory PPE signs present and legible
- Lighting - where hoardings sit next to public footpaths
- Ground conditions - no undermining, excavation or washout near the base
- Climbing aids - nothing stacked against the hoarding that could help someone climb in
How often should hoardings be checked?
Frequency depends on the site and its risks. Many contractors walk the perimeter daily, with a more detailed inspection weekly and an extra check after storms. What matters is that the whole perimeter is actually walked - not just the sections near the site cabins.
Proving the whole perimeter was walked
Perimeter checks are easy to shortcut. Someone checks the front gate, looks along the nearest stretch, and signs the sheet. Checkmate's circuit checks stop that. Tags are fixed at points around the hoarding and linked in a circuit; the person checking has to walk to each one in turn and tap it with their phone to complete the check. Damage can be photographed on the spot, and the report shows every point was visited, with times - useful evidence for clients, insurers and HSE.
Frequently asked questions
How often should construction site hoarding be inspected?
It depends on the site and the risks, but hoardings should be inspected regularly - many sites walk the perimeter daily, with weekly detailed checks and extra checks after high winds or impacts.
Is hoarding classed as temporary works?
Yes. Solid site hoardings are temporary works and should be built to an approved design and inspected regularly while they are in place.
Who is responsible for site security on a construction project?
Under CDM 2015, the principal contractor must take reasonable steps to prevent unauthorised access to the site.