Security, versatility and durability continue to be growing concerns for workers and contractors of all disciplines when considering what type of storage box would work best at their jobsite. Here's one reason why: More than $1 billion is lost annually due to theft of construction equipment and tools, according to The National Insurance Crime Bureau and Associated General Contractors of America. By choosing the appropriate storage box and using it properly on the jobsite, workers can cut down the risk of having their tools stolen and help prevent them from becoming a victim in this ever-growing job-related crime statistic.

Whether it's a heavy-duty storage chest, slant-top or flat-top box, or even a storage cabinet, workers need to make sure their jobsite storage box is secure. A relatively new feature is the multi-point locking system, which provides maximum security against prying and other forcible attacks by securing the lid or door in multiple locations. The most secure systems available have three lock points to repel attacks at the center as well as the corners of the lid or door.

Even with added security, workers want to be able to easily get into their own jobsite storage boxes. Some multi-point lock systems make the process of locking and unlocking the storage box quick and easy by having the multi-point locks operate simultaneously from a common handle, with the entire system secured by a single padlock.

Newer jobsite boxes are also utilizing shackleless padlocks for maximum security. These padlocks do not have an exposed shackle and are made with a hardened steel body that cannot be cut or pried off. Some have the keyway located on the front face of the lock for easy access and convenience. The lock itself features a hardened anti-drill disc to protect the key cylinder. These locks can be keyed alike or keyed to a specific key code and are compatible with the same four-pin key that is used on typical No. 5 padlocks. This way, only one key is needed at a jobsite, regardless of the type of padlock used.

The type of lid on a storage box can be another deterrent to a break-in. Today's newer boxes are now developed with a heavily reinforced 3-in. lid. This lid offers added rigidity and toughness against break-ins. In addition, the best boxes come with a continuous hinge that is both durable and has a large diameter, non-removable pin for added security.

One of the most frustrating activities for a worker on a jobsite is moving a storage box from one location to another. Skyhooks, also known as hoist rings, allow for quick, convenient and safe craning of the storage box anywhere around the jobsite. This is a big time-saving feature as well. Workers no longer have to search a jobsite for the appropriate straps or harnesses to rig up a box before lifting it to another location and then return the straps or harnesses to their former location.

Many boxes are made with heavy-duty skids that allow for the easy installation of casters when lifting a jobsite storage box is not an option. This provides additional mobility and enables storage boxes to be rolled around the jobsite.

Another versatile feature is the accessory storage tray. These trays are great for holding batteries, chargers, blades, hand tools or other accessories. Trays that are made from 16-gauge steel construction will be able to better withstand the tough jobsite environment. Those that come with a heavy-duty hanger allow added versatility within the storage box, as the tray can be hung in multiple areas within a box. Some trays also come with handles for portability when using the tray outside of the storage box. Those with a tapered shape allow multiple trays to nest inside one another for storage when empty.

The ability to charge power tool batteries overnight is a great time-saver for any worker. Having the ability to safely charge batteries in a jobsite storage box is a new feature offered today. Boxes with a covered electrical access port that allows power cords to enter the box while keeping the elements out prevent damage to the box's contents.

A jobsite storage box has to be tough enough to withstand the environmental and physical rigors that workers will put it through. Jobsite storage boxes that have a textured industrial powder coat finish provide maximum corrosion protection and toughness. The process starts with electrostatically charged powder paint, sprayed in a thick and uniform coating. It's then baked to fuse the powder into a dense, hard, seamless coating for a textured finish that's both durable and corrosion resistant.

For increased toughness, many storage boxes come with overlapping welded seams which are stiffer, stronger, and more secure. Today's newer boxes tend to have 16-gauge steel walls. Dual steel support arms safely keep the heavier, stronger lids on today's storage chests in the open position. A finger groove running the full width of the lid allows for easy gripping from any position. When moving a storage box by hand is a possibility, look for ergonomic handles that fold down into recessed pockets when not in use.

For more information about Greenlee's line of products, visit www.greenlee.com or contact Todd Ellerton at (815) 387-9433 or tellerton@greenlee.textron.com.