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New York City has enacted two significant construction safety reforms in early 2026, to address both physical hazards and overall worker wellbeing.
Construction workers are now required to undergo safety training on mental health awareness and substance abuse prevention. The new law builds on an existing statute that requires workers on construction sites to obtain site safety training cards. Certain employers must provide employees with at least 40 hours of training to earn these mandatory cards.
Addressing Critical Industry Challenges
The construction industry faces unique mental health and substance abuse challenges. Workers often deal with demanding physical labor, irregular schedules, job site pressures, and periods of unemployment between projects which are all factors that can contribute to stress, anxiety, and addiction.
By requiring mental health and substance abuse training, the law aims to:
- Equip workers with tools to recognize warning signs in themselves and coworkers
- Reduce stigma around seeking help for mental health concerns
- Provide resources for substance abuse prevention and intervention
- Create safer, more supportive work environments
- Potentially reduce accidents and injuries linked to impaired judgment or mental health crises
New Superintendent Limitations Take Effect
A complementary safety reform that took effect January 1, 2026, restricts construction superintendents to one primary job at a time to ensure proper oversight and site safety.
Previously, the New York City Department of Buildings allowed a person to serve as primary superintendent on up to three nonmajor building jobs or one major building job simultaneously. Superintendents can now hold only one primary position, regardless of project size.
Transition Provisions and Timeline
The Department of Buildings established transition provisions:
- Superintendents who held three nonmajor jobs on December 31, 2025, may continue in those roles, but cannot take on a third job when one ends
- Those who held two nonmajor jobs on December 31, 2025, cannot take on another second job when one ends
- All allowances for multiple job holders will end January 1, 2027
What These Changes Mean for the Industry
These two reforms represent a comprehensive approach to worker safety that addresses both physical hazards and mental health challenges. The expanded training provides valuable resources for managing work demands, while the superintendent limitations mean more focused oversight on each job site.
Construction companies must ensure training programs comply with the updated requirements and review superintendent assignments for compliance. Employers should consider supporting these initiatives through workplace policies, employee assistance programs, and a culture that prioritizes both physical and mental wellbeing.
Legal Support for Construction Workers
If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site or believes your employer has failed to meet safety obligations, you may have legal options. Construction accidents can result in serious injuries, lost wages, and long-term disability. An experienced construction accident attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.