Don’t Settle For Less

Don’t Settle For Less

NYC Cracks Down on Unsafe Construction Sites

On Behalf of | Oct 29, 2021 | Construction Accidents

As a result of a massive ramping up of inspections at job sites around NYC, the Department of Buildings recently issued a record 1,500 stop work orders at sites all over the city. In an attempt to prevent injuries and stem the rising tide of construction accidents in New York City, the regulatory agency began “zero tolerance” safety sweeps earlier this year. The result has been nothing short of shocking.

Inspectors visited roughly 7,500 construction sites around the five boroughs and uncovered a staggering 3,600 violations. Roughly half of those violations were serious enough for them to order all work at the site halted until dangerous safety violations were rectified. The effect on the financial impact on building contractors has been immense but the effect on average construction workers could be nothing short of life-saving.

The massive investigation was launched after a rapid string of 7 fatal construction accidents in New York City over the course of just a few months. Safety advocates called for change—stating that the Department of Buildings was failing in its obligation to inspect workplaces and ensure the safety of individuals employed there. The agency, in turn, had previously cited an insufficient number of workers and other restrictions as reasons why it could not keep up with the workload expected from it.

While regulatory oversite at the municipal level has undoubtedly saved lives, the real responsibility should fall on the shoulders of the job site general contractors and property owners as mandated by the New York Labor Law. If they fail in their duty that workers are properly trained; that established safety protocols are being followed and proper safety equipment is provided, they could be liable if an injury occurs on their construction site.

If you’ve been injured while on a construction site, you need the assistance of an experienced construction accident lawyer in New York City to get the compensation you deserve. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 today for your free consultation.

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