Following a series of recent construction worker deaths, New York City Department of Buildings Commissioner Melanie E. La Rocca recently mobilized teams of enforcement inspectors to perform “zero-tolerance” safety sweeps of the city’s larger and more complex construction sites, according to www.constructiondive.com.
DOB inspectors will issue enforcement actions if they observe any safety violations and shut down job sites if they find serious safety lapses. Inspectors and community engagement teams also will be distributing “Worker Alert” safety information at construction sites regarding the dangers of worker falls.
During the past two weeks, three construction workers in the city died in separate work-related incidents. Two of the fatal incidents were the result of worker falls, and all three incidents are being investigated.
DOB inspectors will be visiting thousands of construction worksites throughout the city. Contractors who are found to be violating safety regulations could face penalties of up to $25,000 for each construction safety violation.
Inspectors will be:
- Ensuring permitted construction projects are in full compliance with their required site safety plans
- Confirming contractors and safety professionals are closely adhering to New York City’s construction safety regulations
- Making sure workers are properly using safety harnesses and fall-arrest systems where required
