The Safe Construction and Demolition Operations Ordinance, which takes effect Dec. 1 in Boston, will require construction and demolition permit applications to submit safety plans, conduct safety meetings and appoint safety coordinators to protect workers and the public, according to Construction Dive.
The ordinance gives Boston’s Inspectional Services Department the authority to now issue violations, stop work, revoke permits and impose fines of up to $300 on permit holders, developers, general contractors, construction managers and subcontractors found to be in noncompliance with the ordinance.
Additionally, the city of Boston will provide training, tools and resources to ensure the successful implementation of the ordinance. The Worker Empowerment Cabinet, a government agency tasked with enhancing Boston’s workforce, will host a series of webinars to inform permit applicants and contractors about the ordinance requirements and compliance. The cabinet also will provide free OSHA 30-hour health and safety training for site safety coordinators to ensure they have the necessary credentials, as well as resources to educate workers regarding their rights.
Construction work in Boston accounted for nearly 30% of workplace fatalities in 2021. With the new ordinance, the city now aligns with other major cities—such as Chicago, Los Angeles and New York City—that have taken steps to ensure worker safety during construction and demolition projects.
