TVL Security believes educating LCV operators about the threat of tool and vehicle theft plays as important a role in guarding against crime as installing the latest security equipment to vans.
TVL points out that, despite the rising adoption of aftermarket security equipment in recent years, Home Office-commissioned research conducted by Durham University has revealed that tools are now the most stolen items across all crime categories. It says this trend is corroborated by insurance data showing that, while in 2018, 26.6% of theft-from-van claims involved tools, by 2021 this figure had rocketed to 85.7%.
To address this accelerating problem, TVL has expanded its proactive approach to combatting crime by supporting educational Tool Theft Workshops, designed to empower stakeholders with the knowledge and strategies needed to protect their equipment.
Complementing its police-backed portfolio of robust security products TVL Security’s workshops form a key part of its crime-prevention ambitions and are aimed at fostering systemic industry-wide change.
TVL Security is committed to bringing together diverse groups of industry representatives and providing them with a platform for in-depth discussions on tool theft prevention. These efforts have seen the business intensify its collaboration with manufacturers, academics, police, major fleet operators and small businesses.
TVL Security’s workshops aim to educate the sector on the latest trends and provide practical solutions to help tradespeople stay one step ahead of criminals by focusing on the evolving threat of tool and van theft, including providing an overview of the most current attack methods, stressing the importance of engaging tool manufacturers in marking tools and recovering and returning stolen items and backing initiatives like the Equipment Theft (Prevention) Act and the Stop Tool Theft protest to drive legislative changes to benefit tradespeople across the UK.
TVL Security sheds light on the scale of the challenge through data gathered from the Tell TVL initiative, a secure online community that provides vital intelligence on van theft techniques and hotspots. The firm believes a multi-faceted security strategy is essential, combining a variety of measures for a comprehensive defence.
Attendees of the workshops have testified to the effectiveness of TVL’s community-driven approach. “The Tool Theft Workshop was an eye-opener. What stood out was the focus on prevention through community intelligence and collaborative approaches. It’s not just about better locks anymore; it’s about being part of a wider community working together to tackle this issue head-on. Since implementing the security measures discussed at the workshop, I feel much safer and better protected,” said Todd Glister, director of Glister Services.
Shoaib Awan, owner of The Gas Expert added: “No business can face this issue alone. Initiatives like these events and Tell TVL provide essential support, helping to raise awareness and protect businesses like ours from constant threats.”
TVL Security strengthened its partnership with the Metropolitan Police Service in 2024, conducting joint events across London and the South East that focused on tool marking education. At hardware stores throughout the region, TVL Security is working alongside local units to provide security advice and tool marking services. These activities demonstrate their commitment to reducing tool and van theft not just through constant innovation, but by taking a proactive role in sector-wide discussions on the subject.
Laura Moran, managing director, TVL Security, concluded: “We believe combating tool theft requires more than just innovative products – it’s about creating a culture of education and awareness. Through initiatives like Stop Tool Theft and Tell TVL, we’re bringing together key stakeholders to foster real change, ensuring that tradespeople are not only protected but empowered with the knowledge to secure their assets.”
Highly Commended: Locks 4 Vans
Locks 4 Vans is renowned for its range of security equipment created for panel vans and pick-up Trucks and has now extended its portfolio of products with a lock designed to protect camper vans.
It has developed a thumb turn lock to enable the occupant to securely lock the vehicle from the inside but provide easy unlocking for emergency access. No keys are required for these locks, and they incorporate a safety lock mechanism to avoid unwanted entry. The thumb turn mechanism has been designed to fit on side doors, barn boors and tailgates for all of the popular campervan models and can be installed either as part of the new vehicle build or as an aftermarket fit.
