Blog; SelectaDNA Joins HAE: A New Era of Theft Prevention for the Hire Industry

SelectaDNA is proud to announce its membership in the Hire Association Europe (HAE), reinforcing its commitment to protecting the UK’s hire and rental sector from the rising threat of theft. With tool and equipment theft on the rise in both urban and rural areas, especially targeting construction and agricultural assets, this partnership arrives at a crucial time.

As a leader in forensic marking and crime prevention, SelectaDNA delivers proven, innovative solutions that deter theft, support police recovery efforts and help businesses minimise disruption. By joining HAE, SelectaDNA extends its cutting-edge technology to a broader network of hire firms, bolstering asset protection across the industry.

Tool and equipment theft costs the UK economy hundreds of millions annually, delaying projects and threatening business operations. SelectaDNA combats this with synthetic DNA marking; using an invisible solution that glows under UV light enables police to identify stolen items and link them to rightful owners.

The technology not only enhances asset recovery but also acts as a powerful deterrent, as marked tools are viewed as ‘too hot to handle’ by criminals. Widely used by police forces and companies across the UK, SelectaDNA is proving to be an essential tool in the fight against equipment theft.

From major infrastructure firms to national equipment hire providers, industry leaders across the UK are turning to SelectaDNA to enhance security, deter theft, and safeguard vital assets. The following case studies showcase how this innovative technology is being rolled out on a national scale to protect operations and maintain business continuity.

Torrent Trackside has partnered with SelectaDNA to implement a national forensic marking programme protecting rail equipment at every UK depot. The programme incorporates a comprehensive suite of security measures, including SelectaDNA asset marking, TESA security labels and prominent warning signage, all designed to act as a visible and effective deterrent against theft. Once marked, assets are registered on the Secure Asset Register, a centralised global database that facilitates swift identification and recovery in the event of loss or theft.

To ensure correct and consistent implementation, the Torrent Trackside team received dedicated training from our Police Liaison, Nick Roach on how to use of these technologies; equipping them with the knowledge and best practices required to maximise the effectiveness of the solution and support potential prosecutions through robust forensic evidence.

This strategic collaboration will help to deter theft, quickly identify and aid in the recovery of stolen assets, and will maintain the progress of key infrastructure projects.

One of SelectaDNA’s most significant collaborations has been with infrastructure giant Balfour Beatty. Since 2012, the partnership has protected over 6,000 assets, including tools, vehicles, cables and surveying equipment.

SelectaDNA has also equipped fleet vehicles with DNA-based Intruder Spray Systems, marking offenders during attempted thefts. Ian Holt, Survey Equipment Operations Manager for Balfour Beatty has said “Since using SelectaDNA, we have had zero incidents of theft of assets that are marked and clearly labelled with the warning stickers – which further demonstrates how effective the product is.”

SelectaDNA’s partnership with HAE is a milestone in helping the hire industry tackle theft, disruption and financial loss. Whether it’s a power drill or a fleet of machinery, every item marked with SelectaDNA becomes part of a broader, smarter security network. With strong support from police forces across the UK and a growing list of successful deployments, SelectaDNA is ready to help HAE members take proactive control of their theft prevention strategies.

To learn more about how SelectaDNA can protect your business…