Any Conditions Found Posing Serious Hazards to Construction Workers and The Public Will Result in Immediate Stop Work Orders
In the last two weeks, three construction workers in New York City lost their lives in separate work-related incidents. Two of these fatal incidents were the result of worker falls. Department of Buildings Commissioner Melanie E. La Rocca announced the mobilization of teams of DOB enforcement inspectors across the five boroughs to perform safety sweeps of the city’s larger and more complex construction sites, to ensure that they are safe for both workers and the public. While performing these zero-tolerance sweeps, DOB inspectors will issue enforcement actions if they observe any safety violations and will shut down sites if they find serious safety lapses.
"The recent spate of construction worker deaths in our city is tragic, senseless – and even worse, entirely avoidable,” said Commissioner La Rocca. “Department inspectors have been directed to sweep work sites around the city, and unsafe conditions will be met with zero tolerance. The death of even one construction worker is wholly unacceptable."
During this sweep, DOB inspectors will be conducting site visits at thousands of construction worksites in neighborhoods across the city. Contractors who are found to be putting their workers at risk by flouting safety regulations could face penalties of up to $25,000 for each construction safety violation. At each worksite, the DOB will specifically be:
Ensuring that permitted construction projects are in full compliance with their required site safety plans.
Confirming that contractors and safety professionals are closely adhering to New York City’s robust construction safety regulations.
Checking that workers on site are properly using safety harnesses and fall arrest systems where required.
Distributing "Worker Alert" safety information on how to prevent worker falls and sending direct mailers to all permit holders performing roof work.
If you have any concerns regarding the legitimacy of your workers' safety training, we can help get you enrolled for any and all fall prevention and worker safety training you may need. You can view our list of upcoming classes HERE or call our office at 718-389-4530.