workerA few years, several worker deaths and much damage to neighboring buildings later, the DOB has finally passed a new regulation aimed at helping the agency stay on top of the work it’s supposed to be monitoring:

To ensure that work is being performed according to safety standards and to help promote safety on construction sites, permit holders now must notify the Department of Buildings at least 24 (but no more than 48 hours) prior to the start of earthwork/excavation.

Looking to cover its ass (and kick that of some other complicit parties), the DOB concludes its announcement of the regulation with the following: “While the DOB will be monitoring excavation work, this does not relieve site engineers and contractors from their professional responsibilities.” You listening, MMC?
Earthwork Notification Fact Sheet (pdf) [DOB]


What's Your Take? Leave a Comment

  1. Yep, Shahn, I noticed that one too. Lancaster, at A.M. Brennan’s State Assembly DOB hearing last month, dwelled quite a lot on this new reg. I think they plan for a lot of “surprise” check ups both on sites that have given notice and those they get via 311 calls who have not.

    Time will tell on the effectiveness.

    Now to see if the new article 21 “professional certification regulations” will have an effect on the other part of the issues to date…that and the spot audit of all new self cert plans for FAR, bulk, etc.

  2. Yes, I agree. Although it may not only be the “last to arrive” who jump ship. There’s a lot of burn out in the business as it is. Tough market or not. Even agent’s who haven’t completely quit seem to be spending less time in the office. I did a column on this a few weeks ago.
    BC