How to Prepare for NYC DOB & OSHA Compliance Audit

“DOB audit” and “OSHA inspection” rarely sound like good news for anyone managing a job site in New York City.

When you’re already racing to meet deadlines and keep your crew moving, an inspection can feel like one more thing to manage.

You need clear records, trained workers, and a clean site ready to walk through. This guide teaches you how to prepare for the NYC DOB & OSHA compliance audit. 

1. Know the Rules Before the Audit Starts

Before any NYC DOB or OSHA audit, you need to know which rules apply to your jobsite.

• Start with the NYC Building Code. This code includes everything from construction safety to energy use. If you’re building in New York City, you must follow it.
• Focus on parts of the law that apply to your type of project. That includes scaffolding, site safety training, and permit requirements for major buildings.
• Next, look at OSHA standards. Construction sites usually fall under parts 1910 and 1926. These cover worker protection, hazard control, and required safety protocols.

If your team skips this review, you’re risking more than just paperwork. You could fail the audit before it begins.

Need help sorting through it all? Menotti tracks DOB regulations, OSHA updates, and site-specific rules, so your team stays compliant.

2. Organize Your Documentation Before the Inspection Starts

Inspectors from the NYC Department of Buildings and OSHA won’t just ask questions. They will ask for documentation.

That includes everything tied to construction site safety, DOB permits, and OSHA compliance. If it lives on-site or in your trailer, it should be accounted for.

Keep these documents ready:

• Current work permits and job numbers
• Site safety plans approved under NYC DOB regulations
• Daily construction logs and safety meetings
• Training certifications like OSHA 10, OSHA 30, and SST cards
• Equipment inspection records and maintenance logs
• Incident reports with documented corrective actions

Keep your files organized. Whether it’s a digital folder or a printed binder, don’t make the inspector wait while you search emails or text threads.

3. Run a Safety Check Before the Audit

Inspect every active area of the jobsite. This includes rooftops, stairwells, basements, and scaffolds. Use safety inspections to spot any hazard that could raise a flag. Focus on fall protection, electrical panels, housekeeping, and PPE use.

Check your scaffolding and ladders. Make sure each setup follows DOB and OSHA standards. An unsecured ladder can delay the audit or trigger violations. Inspect your fire extinguishers, first-aid kits, and signage. Confirm they are placed correctly and are in working condition.

Use a checklist based on NYC DOB regulations and OSHA safety standards. Fix any unsafe conditions right away. Then update your documentation to show what was corrected, when it was corrected, and who resolved it.

Log each inspection in your daily site safety plan. Your safety coordinator or SSM should track all issues and corrections for reference.

4. Train Your Crew Before the Audit Starts

Before any inspection, your workers need to know what to expect. Start with safety training. Each worker should have a valid OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 card. These are required for most construction roles in New York City.

Next, check that all crew members have up-to-date SST cards. These are mandatory under Local Law 196 for most construction sites in NYC.

Don’t stop at certifications. Hold regular toolbox talks and safety meetings. Go over your site safety plan and walk your crew through basic inspection questions.

Designate a site safety manager or supervisor to speak on behalf of the site during the audit. This person should be familiar with site documentation, training records, and DOB regulations.

5. Get Ready for the Walkthrough

Now it’s time for the part everyone dreads. The inspector shows up and wants to walk your jobsite.

Before the walkthrough starts, make sure you:

• Review your compliance history: Be ready to explain past violations or missed inspections. Show what changed and how you corrected the issues.
• Assign a guide for the audit: A site safety manager or supervisor should lead the inspector through the jobsite. They should know your documentation inside and out.
• Clean up the jobsite: Keep walkways clear, post required signage, and store tools and materials properly. No inspector wants to trip over a loose cable.
• Check equipment and safety controls: Inspect PPE, guardrails, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits before the audit begins.
• Prep your workers: Make sure they understand safety protocols and can speak about their training. Inspectors often ask on-the-spot questions.

Menotti stays on-site during audits to support your safety team. We help present documents, explain your safety plans, and walk through any concerns.

What Happens After the Audit?

The audit doesn’t end when the inspector walks off-site. That’s when the follow-up begins. If your site passes without issues, you’re ahead. But if you get flagged, you need to act fast.

Start by reviewing the inspection report with your safety coordinator. Identify what needs to be corrected and set clear deadlines. Once the work is done, update your documentation. That includes permits, safety logs, and any revised site safety plans.

Keep your records current. Auditors can return without warning to check if your corrections were completed.

Menotti helps manage the follow-up process. We track corrections, update plans, and work with your field team to avoid repeat visits.

Book Your NYC DOB & OSHA Audit Prep With Menotti

Want expert support on preparing for the NYC DOB & OSHA compliance audit?

Menotti helps contractors across New York City get audit-ready without last-minute surprises. We review your documents, inspect your site, train your crew, and support you during the walkthrough. 

Our team knows how to prepare for the NYC DOB & OSHA compliance audit because we’ve done it for hundreds of job sites.

Call Menotti today to schedule your audit prep walkthrough. Let’s get your project inspection-ready before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I schedule my DOB inspection?

Schedule at least 7 to 10 days in advance. For major milestones like Temporary Certificates of Occupancy, give it 2 to 3 weeks.

Can I fail an inspection even if my work is completed?

Yes. If your site is missing documents, deviates from approved plans, or shows safety issues, you can still fail the audit.

What happens if I miss or fail a scheduled inspection?

You’ll need to reschedule through the DOB NOW system. Missing or failing can delay your project timeline and trigger re-inspections.

Do expired SST cards affect compliance?

Yes. SST cards must be valid. They expire after five years and need to be renewed with a refresher course.