New York Construction Safety Regulations

On December 23, 2016, a construction worker in New York died. The death inspired the publication of an article by The New York Times highlighting the fact that over a two-year period, there were 31 construction deaths throughout the city. In fact, the article also reveals that while the number of building permits throughout New York City jumped by more than 18 percent from 2011 and 2014, the number of OSHA inspectors in the state dropped by more than 13 percent.

As the article concludes, “New York can do better” and we agree. We count on construction workers to keep us safe by reinforcing bridges, patching roadways, building stronger structures and more. They, in turn, should be kept safe on the job.

New York City is in the middle of a construction boom unlike anything seen in recent decades. With new buildings going up and existing buildings being renovated, reused, and repurposed like never before, there has been an unfortunate consequence: increases in construction accidents that leave construction workers killed or injured.

 

What Are the Safety Regulations for Construction in New York?

In April of 2017, the City of New York passed an extensive safety bill designed to help prevent construction worker injuries and deaths. The laws are serious, and when construction safety laws are breached, the new legislation carries penalties of fines up to $25,000. The following are some changes to the law that were made:

  • All injuries and deaths must be reported (prior to the legislation, only those involving violations of code were required to be reported to the Department of Buildings);
  • Failure to report a death will result in a fine of up to $25,000;
  • All cranes must be equipped with GPS;
  • All cranes must have event recorders;
  • Any safety violations must be reported by the Department of Buildings to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA);
  • All buildings that are undergoing construction that are four stories or more in height must have a particular safety plan created that is specific to the building; and
  • All buildings that are undergoing construction that are four stories or more in height must have a construction superintendent.

 

What To Do After a Construction Accident Occurs

If you are involved in a construction accident in New York, you may have a personal injury claim. There are filing deadlines to consider so be sure to speak with an experienced Napoli Shkolnik PLLC lawyer who is familiar with the process and will be able to maximize your compensation.

If you or a loved one has suffered an injury in New York City you need an experienced personal injury lawyer looking out for your best interests. You only get one chance at securing the compensation you need for your medical costs, pain and suffering, lost earnings and other damages.

To learn more about your legal rights to seek compensation following an accident, contact the law offices of Napoli Shkolnik PLLC today. The consultation is free and there is no obligation. Additionally, our attorneys work on a contingency basis, which means that we only get paid if we recover money for you.