New lock incorporates tracking device

Criminals trying to break into containers fitted with a new security device developed by Leopard may find themselves behind bars – lock, stock and barrel. Tiaan Smith, general manager of Leopard, a loss elimination and risk assessment company, says the newly developed container lock has been well received by the industry and is proving its worth. Made from a high quality metal and fitted with a GPS tracker, this is no ordinary lock. “Of course being a security measure one can’t say too much about the device, but it is proving to be a sure way of keeping unwanted people out of containers.” The device is clamped and declamped by Leopard removing the human element from the supply chain. “Research has shown that truck drivers are involved in some 90% of truck hijackings. With the driver as well as all the other employees not having the ability to open the lock, we minimise risk,” says Smith. Designed by the company, it has also shown a decrease in pilferage. “All of our staff is vetted in a preemployment process while we are also continuously researching and developing the technology around the locking device.” Smith says while most trucks are fitted with tracking devices, the lock offers an added security measure with its GPS tracking service. “It really is about ensuring the container is secure at all times and also knowing where it is or being able to find it if lost or stolen. We have found that many clients like this device as it allows them to track their containers individually,” says Smith. “One must remember that insurance will pay out the value of a container that has been stolen or hijacked, but there is no compensation for the time lost in replacing those goods because the entire importing process has to start from scratch to replace the lost items. Time is definitely money.”