NYC issues construction advisory on ‘foam snow’

New York — The New York City Department of Buildings is reminding construction contractors of their obligation to prevent “foam snow” from littering sidewalks and streets.

Foam snow forms when crews cut Styrofoam and other polystyrene foams for insulation and exterior insulation and finish systems, according to a DOB construction advisory published July 3. Residual particles often blow off the jobsite and litter the surrounding area. The installation waste debris “generates a slipping hazard, and can clog storm drains and pollute waterways.”

Inadequate housekeeping violations can result in fines and enforcement action.

DOB offers these tips:

• Follow manufacturer instructions on installing, sanding, cutting, handling and disposing of insulation.
• Use sanding and cutting machines with vacuum attachments.
• Continually vacuum scaffolds and work areas when sanding and cutting.
• Immediately vacuum sidewalks and other publicly accessible areas when installation waste debris is present.
• Enclose scaffolds (when practical) and work areas with tarps or similar tight enclosures to contain the debris.
• Provide proper containers for disposing of the debris.
• Vacuum any debris that appears when unwrapping insulation materials, along with the edges of materials that have been cut before installation.
• After shifts, perform a thorough jobsite inspection – examining scaffolds, nets, tops of sidewalk sheds, balconies, etc. – and vacuum any debris.