Not all crooks roam the streets of the nation's cities. Many spend their time in the manufacturing plants of companies. There, disguised as honest citizens, they pilfer whatever comes to hand, often tampering with records to cover up their thefts. To prevent pilferage, an owner-manager must recognize that some employees cannot be trusted and make all employees aware that he or she is taking steps to thwart dishonest personnel. That is the question facing employees in plants.
Many employees answer that question almost unconsciously.
They see items lying around and pick them up for their own use. They slip small hand tools into their pockets. Or they dip into the bin for a fistful of nuts and bolts or snip off a few feet of wire for a home repair job. Some are professionals who carry off thousands of dollars worth of equipment and materials. One reason for pilferage is misplaced trust.