NYC conducting ‘zero tolerance’ safety sweeps at largest construction sites

New York — A recent string of construction worker deaths has prompted the New York City Department of Buildings to begin conducting “zero-tolerance” safety sweeps at thousands of the largest and most complex construction sites in all five boroughs.

According to a press release from DOB, three workers were killed in separate incidents over a two-week period in late May. Two of the workers died as a result of a fall.

Enforcement action will be taken if DOB inspectors observe any safety violations, and worksites will be shut down if serious safety lapses are discovered. Violators could face fines of up to $25,000 per violation.

At each worksite, inspectors will:

• Ensure permitted construction projects are in full compliance with required safety plans.
• Confirm contractors and safety professionals are adhering to the city’s construction safety regulations.
• Check that workers are properly using safety harnesses and fall arrest systems where required.
• Distribute safety information on fall prevention. DOB will also mail the information to all permit holders performing roof work.

“The recent spate of construction worker deaths in our city is tragic, senseless – and even worse, entirely avoidable,” DOB Commissioner Melanie E. La Rocca said in the release. “Department inspectors have been directed to sweep worksites around the city, and unsafe conditions will be met with zero tolerance. The death of even one construction worker is wholly unacceptable.”