Diesel theft continues to be a challenge across our sites, but there are things we can do to make our sites less attractive targets for thieves. Recent images from several locations highlight how small oversights in housekeeping create easy opportunities for thieves. The good news is that by taking simple, consistent actions we can significantly reduce our risk.

Our approach is grounded in our core security principles: Deter, Deny, Detect, Disrupt and Respond. Applied effectively, these principles help us protect our assets and support safer, more secure operations.

What a diesel thief needs

A typical diesel thief requires four basic elements:

1. A diesel source — such as a fuel tank, loading shovel, bowser or similar.
2. A siphoning tool — often just a length of hose.
3. A container — to collect and store the stolen fuel.
4. A method of transport — usually a vehicle, though even a wheelbarrow can be enough.

Unfortunately, all of these items are commonly available on most sites. This is why attention to housekeeping is essential.

Simple housekeeping steps that make a big impact

A small amount of time spent securing equipment can make it far harder for offenders to operate. Key measures include:

• Locking away hoses, containers and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Keeping diesel stocks to the minimum levels required for safe and efficient operations.
• Disposing of unused containers responsibly — ideally by crushing or holing them to prevent reuse.
• Maintaining clear, tidy storage areas to prevent thieves from easily locating what they need.

These actions help break the chain of opportunity. If a thief cannot quickly find the tools they rely on, the chances of them moving on increase significantly.

Working Together to Reduce Risk

Diesel theft is not inevitable. By embedding consistent housekeeping practices across all of our site we can reduce the number of offences committed against us and better protect our people, equipment and fuel.

For Site Managers – please report incidents of diesel theft to the police and forward full details to John Sweeting, UK Security Manager.  Please also contact John for any further support/information about diesel theft.

Thank you for playing your part in keeping our sites secure. If you identify any vulnerabilities or recurring issues, please raise them with the UK Security team immediately, so we they can respond effectively.