Construction poses significant risks to workers and as a result is one of the most dangerous occupations. In New York City alone, construction workers make up only 5 percent of the total workforce, but account for 27 percent of work-related injury fatalities. A majority of construction-related fatalities are caused by falls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that falls account for one third of all construction fatalities in the United States, making them the industry’s leading cause of death. To decrease the number of falls on the jobsite, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) now requires fall prevention training for all workers who need a Site Safety Training (SST) card under Local Law 196.
Beginning on March 1, 2021 all construction workers must have a full (SST) card, which requires 40 total hours of training. Here are some items to keep in mind before that deadline:
Every Worker Needs Site Safety Training
The new training requirements under Local Law 196 apply to nearly every construction and demolition worker at most jobsites in New York City, as well as journeypersons and forepersons. If you work on a project with a Site Safety Plan, you will need additional training. The Department of Buildings has an interactive map that provides more information regarding which specific jobsites require SST, which can be viewed here.
Satisfying SST Requirements Can Vary For Current and New Workers
If you already have an OSHA 30 card or Limited SST card, you are still required to obtain a Full SST Worker card by March 1, 2021. Achieving this card requires an additional 10 hours of training. However, if you are a new worker – which includes workers entering the industry after December 1, 2019 – you must take a10-hour OSHA course before starting your new job. You will also need to complete an additional 30 hours of training within six months of starting work to qualify for a full SST card.
Missing The Deadline Can Interrupt Your Ability To Work
If you miss the deadline, your employer will likely not allow you to enter the jobsite to avoid costly penalties issued by the DOB. The DOB conducts random site checks, and if workers do not have valid proof of their SST card, site owners, permit holders, and your employer will receive penalties as high as $5,000 for each worker present. It’s best to avoid these complications and take the time now to fulfill the requirement in order to meet the deadline, which will be here before you know it.