Good Morning,

Scaffolds have become an essential component of every jobsite across New York City. Under Local Law 196, multi-hour Supported Scaffold training is required for every New York City construction site. However, the majority of scaffolding-related issues arise from general requirements, which, if overlooked, pose serious risks. In 2023, scaffolding violations ranked #4 on OSHA's Top 10 most cited standards, indicating the ongoing need for proper awareness and adherence to scaffold safety.

Some of the most common hazards associated with all scaffolds include:

• Access: Improper access points can lead to accidents.
• Collapse: Structural integrity issues can cause scaffold failures.
• Electrical: Proximity to live electrical lines increases the risk of electrocution.
• Falls: Fall risks remain prevalent, especially when proper guardrails and personal protective equipment are not used. Also when platforms are not properly maintained.
• Struck-by: Falling tools or materials from scaffolds can cause serious injuries to workers below.

Please refer to 29 CFR 1926.451 for the full detailed OSHA Scaffold General Requirements.

We are aware the scaffold training required by Local Law 196 is not sufficient for construction workers working on interior portions of construction projects in NYC. The training required for the SST card only covers scaffold awareness and the law requires any individual working on supported scaffold to take the 4-hour in person/live course. Therefore, every construction worker working using a supported scaffold, needs to take the in person/actively proctored DOB approved 4 hour supported scaffold class to receive their scaffold card. This course will be compliant with SST cards and the DOB's new Worker Wallet App beginning November 1. More information on the differences can be found here. The Education and Cultural Trust Fund partners with a NYC DOB course provider to offer this class to members of Local Union #3, IBEW. Please reach out to them or coordinate through your superintendent to have the training scheduled.

By maintaining compliance and staying informed, we can work toward safer and more efficient job sites across the city.

There are also several tool box talks on this topic in the Safety Meeting App and eSafetyline website that are included in your NYECA membership. You may also find resources covering accident investigation on the NYECA website here.

We encourage anyone interested in participating in the NYECA Safety Committee to reach out to evangelista@nyeca.org.

The next meeting will be taking place via Zoom on Tuesday November 12 at 3:00pm.

If you have any question, you may reach out to the Association Office.

Thank You