Tool theft remains a big issue for tradespeople across the UK. Theft of tools can have a massive impact on our customers and their businesses, causing big financial losses and disruption to day-to-day operations.
According to police figures, in 2024, there were over 25,525 tool thefts reported across the UK, totalling to a value of £40 million. This translates to about 70 tool thefts per day. Sadly, most victims never recover their stolen tools.
At BED Electrical, we understand how important your kit is, and we’re taking action to help our customers better protect their tools.
How BED Electrical is helping you protect your kit
Tool theft is unfortunately, a risk that comes with the trade. But that doesn’t mean you have to face it alone! At BED Electrical, we’re proud to support our customers with simple, affordable solutions, like UV Pens to help deter theft and aid recovery if their tools are stolen.
What are UV security Pens?
UV (ultraviolet) security pens allow you to mark your tools with an invisible identification. The ink in these pens can't be seen with the naked eye but will shine brightly under UV Light. This makes them an effective way for police to identify stolen equipment.
We’re now stocking BED Branded UV Pens across our branches as part of our ongoing effort to support our trade community in protecting their tools.
Why use UV Marking?
- UV Markings deter thieves. Marked tools are harder to sell on and easier to trace.
- Invisible to the naked eye. Using these pens causes no visual damage or branding to your tools.
- UV markings are used by the police to help trace tools back to their owners.
- Quick & easy. It takes seconds to apply and could save you thousands of pounds.
How to use your BED UV Pen
- Mark tools with unique identifiers
- Top Tip: Try to mark the tool in a hidden or less obvious area, so that only someone with a UV light can see it & thieves can't easily spot and remove it.
- Allow the ink to dry for a few seconds
- Keep a record of what tools you’ve marked and where.
- If you have one, check the tool with a UV light to ensure that your marking is visible.
- Repeat every few months, as heavy use of the tool may fade the ink over time.
Other tips to keep your tools secure:
Locking and securing your van.
This may sound obvious. But consistently locking up your van and closing all windows can often be an overlooked step. We’re all busy and can sometimes forget the simplest things that should come as a reflex. Ensure your van is securely locked, whether you’re at a petrol station, a car park or at home.
Alarm systems
If your van lacks a built-in alarm, consider installing an approved system. Advanced tracking systems are also available for extra peace of mind; these systems can help you to locate your van if stolen.
Tool safes and van boxes
Improve your van's security with tool safes and van boxes to safeguard your equipment. These are also helpful for avoiding leaving any valuables on show.
Van stickers
Van stickers can be used to highlight the presence of advanced security measures like tool safes and tracking systems to deter potential thieves.
Keep tool receipts, photos and inventories.
Keeping inventories and receipts helps with insurance claims and aids in tracking and recovering stolen items. Ensure records are updated regularly and kept in a secure location.
Implementing these strategies will help protect your tools and ensure you can continue to work with confidence.
Ask about our UV pens next time you’re in a branch or contact your local branch team to find out how to get yours.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and let’s keep your kit where it belongs.