Scaffold Safety — Avoiding Common Violations
2025-10-10
Scaffolding is essential for many construction projects, but it also presents serious safety risks when not properly erected, maintained, or used. According to OSHA, scaffold-related incidents consistently rank among the most frequently cited violations in the construction industry1. These incidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities, most of which are preventable through proper compliance […]
Charged for Danger: NYC Battles Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Surge
2025-10-07
Jump straight to a section: In recent years, lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous in New York City’s urban landscape—powering everything from e-bikes and scooters to tools and backup systems on construction sites. But with their convenience comes a growing danger: thermal runaway, toxic gas emissions, and explosive fires that are difficult to extinguish. In 2025 […]
Fireproofing the Future: NYC’s Construction Fire Safety Overhaul
Jump straight to a section: Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments, and fire risks are among the most dangerous and costly threats. In New York City, the FDNY and Department of Buildings (DOB) have significantly strengthened fire safety protocols in recent years, especially following tragic incidents like the Deutsche Bank fire of 2007, which claimed […]
New Heights, New Rules: NYC Building Code Redefines Major Projects
Jump straight to a section: In a sweeping update to New York City’s construction regulations, the Department of Buildings (DOB) has redefined what constitutes a “major building,” significantly expanding the scope of projects that require licensed safety professionals. These changes, enacted under Local Laws 147 and 149 of 2021, that took full effect on December […]
No Card, No Entry: NYC Mandates Worker Wallets for Scaffold Users
Jump straight to a section: In a major step toward digitizing and streamlining construction safety compliance, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) has introduced the Worker Wallet Card (WWC)—a new credentialing system that consolidates multiple training certifications into a single, scannable ID. This initiative, which became mandatory on July 1, 2025, is designed […]
Electrical Safety on the Jobsite — OSHA’s Key Requirements
2025-09-12
Electrical hazards are a leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry. Workers face risks from exposed wiring, overhead power lines, faulty equipment, and improper lockout/tagout procedures. To address these dangers, OSHA established comprehensive electrical safety standards under 29 CFR 1926 Subpart K, which outlines employer responsibilities for protecting workers from electrocution and electrical injuries1. OSHA’s […]
What Construction Employers Need to Know About Fall Protection
2025-08-22
Falls are the leading cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for nearly half of all fatal incidents on job sites. Despite being preventable, fall-related injuries and fatalities continue to occur at alarming rates. OSHA’s Fall Protection Standard (29 CFR 1926 Subpart M) outlines the requirements employers must follow to protect workers from fall hazards1. OSHA’s […]
Understanding OSHA’s “Fatal Four” Hazards in Construction
2025-07-23
The construction industry is one of the most hazardous sectors in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), construction accounts for nearly 1 in 5 workplace fatalities annually1. To address the most common and deadly risks, OSHA has identified the “Fatal Four” hazards: Falls, Struck-By, Caught-In/Between, and Electrocutions. These four categories alone are responsible for […]
Important News about 8-Hour Site Safety Courses
2025-07-22
Don’t be fooled by misinformation listed on other big online course provider websites. NYC DOB recently emailed Approved Course providers to reinforce that self-paced, on-demand training courses are not acceptable for use for site safety and construction super license renewals. Some training providers are still offering on-demand courses that can’t be used for license […]
Hard Hat Happenings July 2025
2025-07-02
Big Changes at DOB Make Sure Your Training Still Counts On July 1st, the NYC Department of Buildings made some big changes that impacted the site safety world. Every training provider—no matter how long they’ve been around—had to reapply for DOB Approval under new rules. If they didn’t submit their paperwork and fee by the deadline, they’re […]
Hard Hat Happenings February 2025
2025-01-27
By the time February rolls around, we all think we’re experts in navigating the winter weather. That false sense of confidence makes it even more likely that you’ll hurt yourself out there. Think about these wintertime hazards and the easy way you can avoid all of them. Already resting up from a fall? Take an […]
