Site Safety Plans for NYC Projects
Site Safety Plans for NYC Projects: What Are a Must
Site safety plans are comprehensive documents that outline all necessary safety measures implemented, procedures to follow, and protections in place for the safety of workers and the surrounding buildings on the site.
A thorough and complete site safety plan must contain the following:
- Detailed project information, along with the scope of work
- Details of the site location and the lot
- Job filing information and permits DOB
- Plan for the protection of any and all adjoining properties
- Pedestrian protection plans that will cover sidewalk sheds, fences, and barriers
- Controlled access zones for the project
- Crane and hoisting safety plans, if the equipment are to be used
- Detailed excavation and shoring procedures
- Fire safety protocols
- Hot work permit
- Emergency evacuation routes
- Layouts for temporary facilities (toilets, offices, storage, etc.)
- Location of the safety signage
- Designated safety personnel assignments
- Safety associated with traffic and delivery logistics (if applicable)
- Noise mitigation plans
- Fall protection plans that clearly mention the tie-off anchor points
Having site safety plans is a key part of construction site safety management and a legal requirement under Chapter 33 of the NYC Construction Code (NYC DOB) for activities such as major construction projects, excavation/foundation work, demolitions, facade repairs, or other major renovations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can design the site safety plan for building and construction projects?
A building and construction site safety management plan must be designed by a qualified professional who knows DOB safety codes, zoning regulations, and site-specific conditions. Usually, this includes Professional Engineers (PE), Registered Architects (RA), licensed Site Safety Managers, and DOB Filing Specialists.
What happens in case of non-compliance with site safety plans?
For any non-compliance with the approved site safety plans, the project may be issued a Stop Work Order (SWO) and significant fines levied for the violation by the DOB. Further, work will not resume until the violation is corrected. In addition, the violation will become the legal liability of the contractor and will go on their permanent public record.
What are "Methods of Statement (MoS)"?
The “Method of Statement (MoS)” is a systematic document that provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for procedures to follow for high-risk activities (e.g., crane lifts, demolition) during specific construction tasks. This is combined with the Risk Assessment (RA) for the project and submitted to DOB as part of the site safety plan to prove that hazards are controlled.
Who acts as a Site Safety Manager (SSM) and what do they do?
A Site Safety manager is a licensed/certified safety professional designated by the construction manager or general contractor. They must hold the Site Safety Manager Certification from the NYC DOB. Their responsibilities include daily on-site safety, inspections, training, and compliance with DOB rules to ensure a safe work environment during the entire project duration.
Is NYC DOB the only authority associated with site safety plans?
The NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) is the primary authority for approving, regulating, and overseeing the enforcement of Site Safety Plans (SSPs). They also conduct inspections, handle requests for safety equipment, and manage safety training requirements (SST) under Local Law 196. Further, they enforce broader codes set by the OSHA and other agencies for both worker and site safety.