As of December 11, 2024, Local Law 147 of 2021 is officially in effect. The redefinition of “major buildings” means stricter safety requirements for a broader range of projects. Whether you’re breaking ground or already mid-construction, you have to know how this new law affects your work.
Here are the key changes introduced by Local Law 147. We’ll explain how they affect your projects and outline the steps you can take to ensure compliance. We’ll also provide actionable insights to help you adhere to these new regulations.
What Is Local Law 147?
Local Law 147 expands the definition of “major buildings,” increasing the number of projects subject to NYC’s site safety requirements.
Previously, only buildings 10 stories or taller, or 125 feet or higher, were considered major. Now, the law includes buildings that are:
-
7 stories or taller
-
75 feet or taller
Additionally, buildings with a footprint of at least 100,000 square feet or those deemed hazardous by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) are also classified as major buildings.
By lowering the height threshold, Local Law 147 brings more buildings under NYC’s stringent site safety requirements.
Why Was This Law Introduced?
The NYC construction industry has seen an increase in non-fatal injuries over the past three years, according to the DOB’s latest safety reports. Many of these incidents occurred on low-rise construction sites previously exempt from stricter safety standards.
This prompted city officials to close the regulatory gap, ensuring smaller projects meet the same rigorous safety benchmarks as taller buildings.
How Does Local Law 147 Impact Construction Projects?
The expanded definition of “major buildings” increases compliance requirements. Now, a wider range of projects must:
Develop and Submit Comprehensive Site Safety Plans (SSPs)
Contractors must create these plans, which outline the specific safety measures they will implement on the project site. The Department of Buildings (DOB) reviews and approves these plans before construction can begin.
Implement Daily Safety Monitoring
On-site safety professionals must conduct daily inspections to identify and address potential hazards.
Employ Qualified Safety Professionals
Every major building project must have licensed safety professionals present during construction activities. Depending on the scope, this could mean hiring:
-
Site Safety Managers (SSMs) for larger, more complex projects.
-
Site Safety Coordinators (SSCs) for smaller scopes of work.
Additionally, Construction Superintendents (CSs) are required to oversee certain types of work, including significant demolitions and new builds. However, Construction Superintendents can only manage three active permits at a time, down from five, making them harder to find.
Projects classified as major buildings must comply with additional steps in the permit approval process. This includes submitting detailed plans for review and obtaining permits for:
-
General Construction (GC)
-
Structural (ST)
-
Foundation (FO)
-
Support of Excavation (SE)
-
Earthwork (EA)
Failing to obtain these permits or develop an approved SSP can result in project delays.
The Risks of Non-Compliance with Local Law 147
The City of New York imposes strict penalties for violations, including substantial fines and work stoppages. Work stoppages delay project timelines, which can increase costs and affect project profitability.
Furthermore, non-compliance can damage a contractor’s reputation. A history of safety violations deters future clients and makes it difficult to secure new contracts. Construction companies must maintain a strong safety record to build trust with clients and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
We’re Your Partner in Local Law 147 Compliance
Menotti Enterprise helps contractors navigate Local Law 147. We provide practical, customized solutions to keep your projects safe, compliant, and on schedule.
Safety Planning
Developing a Site Safety Plan (SSP) that meets DOB standards can be overwhelming. We handle the entire process for you, creating detailed, project-specific plans that:
-
Address all DOB requirements.
-
Minimize risks to workers and the public.
-
Streamline the approval process to avoid delays.
Safety Staffing
Licensed safety professionals are needed for major building projects. Menotti Enterprise provides certified Site Safety Managers (SSMs), Site Safety Coordinators (SSCs), and Construction Superintendents (CSs) to oversee on-site safety operations.
Our team ensures compliance with Local Law 147, helping you avoid violations and keep your project running without delays.
Safety Training
Proper training is the foundation of a safe worksite. Menotti Enterprise offers comprehensive training programs, including:
-
OSHA certifications
-
Scaffold safety courses
-
Site-specific training for your project
We prepare your workforce to meet all safety requirements and respond effectively to potential hazards.
