New Construction Safety Ordinance Affects Construction and Demolition Companies Operating in Boston, MA

BOSTON, November 20, 2023 (Newswire.com) - Over the years, the construction industry has played a pivotal role in Boston's growth and development. However, the increasing numbers of accidents and injuries at construction and demolition projects in the city have raised concerns about the safety of workers and the public. The City of Boston recognizes the need for a robust regulatory framework to address these concerns, which led to the formulation of the new Construction Safety Ordinance that takes effect December 1, 2023. 

Key Components of the New Construction Safety Ordinance

Safety Training and Certification

One of the cornerstones of the new ordinance is the emphasis on safety training and certification for construction workers. Starting from December 1, 2023, all construction personnel must undergo mandatory safety training on how to recognize and avoid job-site hazards. Curtis Chambers, President of OSHA Training Services Inc., recommends the OSHA 10-hour construction training course for meeting this requirement.  

Site Safety Plans

The ordinance mandates the development and submission of comprehensive Site Safety Plans for all construction and demolition projects within the city limits. These plans must outline the safety measures and protocols that will be implemented throughout the construction or demolition process. The city will conduct rigorous reviews of these plans to ensure their compliance with safety standards and regulations.

Site Safety Coordinator

A Site Safety Coordinator must be on-site at all times at construction sites larger than 50,000 square feet or demolition projects greater than four stories. The Site Safety Coordinators must:

• Have successfully completed at least the OSHA 30-Hour certification in construction;  
• Conduct weekly safety meetings, inspections, spot checks and keep a Site Safety Log;
• Correct unsafe conditions and/or report them to the City of Boston's Inspectional Services Dept. (ISD) or to Federal OSHA if they are violations of federal health and safety standards;
• Notify the City of Boston ISD of any unpermitted work or use of unpermitted equipment;
• Be present at the site while active work is occurring and through all phases of work, beginning with excavation and continuing until the building is enclosed and all temporary protective measures are removed. (Note: If the primary site safety coordinator is not available, a qualified alternate coordinator may be designated to fill in at the site to fulfill required duties);

Site Safety Coordinators are not allowed to work simultaneously at multiple sites.

Reporting Requirements

The new ordinance introduces stringent reporting requirements for construction and demolition companies. Any accidents, injuries, or safety violations must be reported to the city authorities promptly. This transparent reporting system enables the city to respond promptly to incidents, investigate their causes, and take appropriate corrective measures to prevent future occurrences.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

To incentivize compliance with the new safety measures, the Construction Safety Ordinance outlines a tiered system of penalties for non-compliance. Construction companies found in violation of safety regulations may face fines, project shutdowns, or, in severe cases, suspension of their construction permits. These penalties are designed to encourage a culture of safety and responsibility within the construction industry.

Conclusion

The City of Boston's new Construction Safety Ordinance, which becomes effective December 1, 2023, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to enhance safety in the construction industry. By focusing on training, planning, inspections, reporting, and penalties for non-compliance, the ordinance aims to create a safer environment for construction workers and the public. Contact OSHA Training Services Inc. for more information about OSHA training in Boston MA.

Source: OSHA Training Services Inc.