New York City’s construction sites now face strict compliance standards under Local Law 196. Workers must complete site safety training (SST) to legally access most job sites.
Supervisors need even more training to meet Department of Buildings (DOB) rules. Missing these requirements can halt projects and trigger fines.
This guide explains what Local Law 196 SST training covers, who needs it, and how to stay compliant with current DOB standards.
What Is Local Law 196 SST Training?
Local Law 196 of 2017 sets the safety training standards for construction and demolition workers in New York City.
Workers on these sites must complete 40 hours of training. Supervisors must complete 62 hours of safety training. The NYC DOB enforces these requirements and can issue fines for non-compliance.
Site safety training, or SST, includes courses on fall prevention, hazard awareness, and safe work practices. Each course helps workers prevent injuries and protect themselves and their coworkers.
After finishing the required training, each participant receives an SST card. This card confirms that the worker or supervisor meets Local Law 196 training requirements and is qualified to work on regulated job sites.
Who Needs Local Law 196 SST Training?
SST training applies to everyone on regulated job sites, whether you are a contractor or subcontractor.
The DOB enforces compliance and may issue fines if workers on-site have not received adequate training.
The following groups need Local Law 196 training:
- Construction and demolition workers
- Concrete safety managers
- Construction superintendents
- Site safety managers and coordinators
- Competent persons designated by a superintendent
The following groups are exempt from training:
- Project managers
- Professional engineers and registered architects
- Developers and delivery personnel
- Security officers and filing representatives
To confirm whether your site requires training, use DOB’s site safety construction map. Enter the job site address to check if Local Law 196 applies.
SST Worker Training Requirements
Workers on qualifying job sites complete 40 hours of SST through OSHA courses and DOB-approved classes.
The training ensures that workers understand safe work practices and can prevent accidents on site.
Option 1
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Outreach Training
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness
Option 2
- OSHA 10-Hour Construction Outreach Training
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User and Refresher
- 8-Hour Chapter 33 or a mix of 4-Hour General Electives and 4-Hour Specialized Electives
- 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness
- 8 additional hours of approved electives
Training is valid only when completed through a DOB-approved provider. Once finished, workers receive an SST card confirming compliance with Local Law 196 training requirements.
Each card remains valid for five years and requires a refresher course for renewal.
SST Supervisor Training Requirements
Supervisors complete 62 hours of safety training under Local Law 196. This advanced course builds on the 40-hour worker program.
It prepares supervisors to manage risk, monitor safety, and maintain compliance on job sites.
Required Courses
- OSHA 30-Hour Construction Outreach Training
- 8-Hour Fall Prevention
- 8-Hour Chapter 33: Site Safety Manager Refresher or equivalent
- 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User and Refresher
- 2-Hour Site Safety Plan
- 2-Hour Toolbox Talks
- 2-Hour Pre-Task Safety Meetings
- 2-Hour General Electives
- 2-Hour Specialized Electives
- 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness
The NYC DOB requires supervisors to complete these courses through approved providers.
Each Supervisor SST card remains valid for five years and must be renewed through refresher training before expiration.
Local Law 196 Deadlines and Compliance Reminders
The final compliance date for Local Law 196 was March 1, 2021. Since then, all construction and demolition workers on large job sites in New York City have been required to hold a valid SST card to work legally.
The law requires workers to complete a total of 40 hours of safety training to qualify for their SST card.
This training includes OSHA courses and DOB-approved safety classes that cover topics such as fall prevention, hazard awareness, and the proper use of equipment.
DOB inspectors continue to check construction sites to confirm that all workers and supervisors have valid SST cards.
Employers, site owners, and permit holders are responsible for ensuring compliance. Sites found with untrained personnel can face civil penalties of up to $5,000 per untrained worker.
SST cards remain valid for five years. To keep them active, workers must complete a refresher course before renewal.
Types of SST Cards
There are several types of SST cards issued by DOB-approved training providers:
- Temporary SST card: Issued after completing 10 hours of training. It allows workers to begin work while finishing the remaining courses.
- Limited SST card: Issued after completing 30 hours of training. It remains valid until the worker completes all 40 hours.
- Full SST worker card: Granted once the 40-hour requirement is complete. This card allows full site access and remains valid for five years.
- Supervisor SST card: Given to those who have completed 62 hours of supervisor training.
Complete Your Local Law 196 Training with Menotti Enterprise
Each SST card includes a photograph, name, signature, completion date, expiration date, and provider information. Cards also have security features to prevent forgery and duplication.
Local Law 196 is the law that keeps New York City’s construction sites safe and compliant.
Without an SST card, your site risks fines, delays, and failed inspections.
Menotti Enterprise makes compliance simple. We provide DOB-approved SST and OSHA courses that meet every Local Law 196 training requirement.
Our programs are available online and in person. You’ll receive expert instruction, practical safety knowledge, and a valid SST card upon completion.
Don’t wait for an inspection to reveal missing training. Protect your workers, secure your projects, and stay in compliance with city regulations.
Enroll in Menotti’s site safety training, and keep your team ready, certified, and compliant with Local Law 196.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Local Law 196 site safety training valid?
SST cards remain valid for five years from the completion date. Before the card expires, workers and supervisors need to take a refresher course approved by the DOB to renew it.
Can previous OSHA training count toward the SST requirement?
Yes. If you completed an OSHA 10-hour or 30-hour course within the past five years, those hours can count toward your 40-hour SST requirement.
The remaining hours can be completed through approved additional courses to reach the total needed for certification.
What should I do if I lose my SST card?
If your SST card is lost or damaged, contact your training provider to request a replacement. You’ll need to confirm your identity and provide proof of course completion before a new card is issued.
