What are NYC’s construction site safety requirements?

NYC construction site safety requirements are outlined in the New York City Building Code, alongside mandates from the Department of Buildings (DOB) and adherence to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards. This multi-layered approach reflects the unique challenges of urban construction, addressing everything from worker training to public protection.

Here’s an overview of the key safety requirements. If you think you may have a New York construction accident case, contact The Weinstein Law Group at (212) 741-3800.

Worker training and certification

NYC mandates Site Safety Training for construction workers and supervisors to reduce job site hazards and improve safety. Workers must complete the OSHA 10-hour construction safety course, while supervisors must complete the OSHA 30-hour course.

Fall protection

The city requires construction sites to implement comprehensive fall protection systems for workers at heights. This includes guardrails, safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, and covers for holes where workers might fall through. Detailed fall protection plans must be developed for work at significant heights, outlining all preventive measures.

Scaffolding safety

Scaffolds must adhere to stringent safety standards for construction, use, and inspection. Workers must receive training on scaffold safety, and a competent person must inspect scaffolds before use.

Cranes and derricks

Following several high-profile accidents, NYC has imposed strict regulations on cranes and derricks, including operator certification, crane assembly/disassembly oversight, and regular inspections. The DOB requires notification and permits for crane use in construction projects.

Excavation and trenching

Safety measures for excavation and trenching operations are rigorously enforced, including requirements for protective systems to prevent cave-ins, safe access and egress for workers, and daily hazard inspections.

Demolition safety

Demolition work on construction sites must proceed according to a plan that addresses the sequence of demolition, dust and debris control methods, and structural integrity during the process.

Fire safety

Construction sites must implement fire safety protocols, including maintaining clear fire exits, providing fire extinguishers, and conducting hot work (such as welding) under controlled conditions with a designated fire watch.

Electrical safety

All electrical installations and equipment must comply with the NYC and National Electrical codes, emphasizing ground-fault protection and safe use of temporary electrical supplies.

Public protection

To safeguard the public, construction sites must install temporary equipment such as sidewalk sheds, construction fences, and pedestrian pathways as necessary. These measures protect pedestrians from construction debris, falling objects, and other hazards.

Tenant Protection Plan

When demolishing a building with one or more units occupied by tenants, the construction documents must feature a Tenant Protection Plan (TPP). This plan must clearly identify which specific units are occupied and describe how the safety and health of these residents will be ensured. This includes methods such as setting up temporary fire-resistant barriers, securing openings, and implementing dust control measures.

For buildings where people live during construction, measures like barricades, warning signs, and protective coverings must be put in place and maintained to shield residents from construction-related dangers and disturbances.

Reporting and documentation

The DOB requires timely reporting of incidents on construction sites, along with documentation of safety measures and compliance with training regulations.

We can help you get the compensation you need to move forward

Unfortunately, some employers choose to ignore or only partially follow NYC construction site safety requirements, putting their employees at risk of injury and death. If you or a loved one were hurt on a construction site, call The Weinstein Law Group at (212) 741-3800 today.