In New York City, the Department of Buildings (DOB) can fine the owner, permit holder, and employer of an untrained worker up to $5,000 per worker. The DOB can also:

  • Deny or automatically withhold construction or demolition permits
  • Fine the permit holder $2,500 for failing to keep a training record log
  • Conduct unannounced inspections to verify compliance

The DOB holds permit holders responsible for ensuring that workers at their sites are trained.

Other penalties for OSHA violations include:

  • Willful or repeated violations: A civil penalty of up to $161,323 per violation
  • Serious violations: A civil penalty of up to $16,131 per violation
  • Other-than-serious violations: A civil penalty of up to $16,131 per violation
  • Some ways to avoid OSHA citations include:
    • Performing risk assessments
    • Having strong safety policies
    • Enforcing safety policies
    • Training employees
    • Encouraging employees to “See Something Say Something”
    • Providing the appropriate safety equipment

In New York City, damaging the roots of a tree can result in a fine of up to $1,000 for a standard violation, with more serious offenses like removing a tree without a permit potentially leading to fines as high as $15,000 and possible imprisonment.

Key points to remember:

  • Illegal to damage trees: It is against the law to intentionally or accidentally harm a street or park tree in NYC.
  • Report violations: If you see someone damaging a tree, you can report it to the authorities.
  • Tree work permit needed: Any work on or near a tree, including root manipulation, usually requires a permit from NYC Parks.

In New York City, a construction company owner can potentially face prison time if a worker dies on the job, especially if the death is deemed to be due to gross negligence or willful violation of safety standards, which could lead to criminal charges like criminally negligent homicide, potentially resulting in jail time depending on the specifics of the case.

Key points to remember:

Strict construction safety laws:

New York has stringent construction safety laws, and violations can lead to severe penalties, including jail time.

Criminal liability:

If a company owner is found to have knowingly disregarded safety hazards that directly led to a worker’s death, they can be held criminally liable.

FAQs

Explore our frequently asked questions to gain insights into safety compliance and OSHA regulations. We aim to clarify your concerns and enhance workplace safety.
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OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a federal agency that ensures safe and healthy working conditions.

Employers must provide a safe workplace, comply with OSHA standards, and keep records of work-related injuries and illnesses.

You can report violations by contacting your local OSHA office or filing a complaint through the OSHA website.

A safety audit is a systematic evaluation of a workplace to identify hazards and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Penalties can range from fines to legal action, depending on the severity of the violation and whether it was willful or repeated.

Safety training should be conducted regularly, at least annually, or whenever new equipment or procedures are introduced.

An SDS provides information on the properties of hazardous chemicals, including handling, storage, and emergency measures.

A safety officer is responsible for ensuring compliance with safety regulations and promoting a culture of safety within the organization.

Improving workplace safety involves regular training, hazard assessments, and fostering open communication about safety concerns.

In case of an accident, ensure immediate medical attention, report the incident to management, and document the details for future reference.