NYC Construction Permits Increased in 2011

NYC announced today an 18 percent decrease in construction-related accidents in New York City for 2011, despite a 7.7 percent increase in the issuance of construction permits citywide. 

Construction-related injuries also decreased across the City last year – falling from 165 reported accidents in 2010 to 152 in 2011, a reduction of 7.8 percent.

In addition to increased enforcement, expanded outreach to construction industry members and greater cooperation by builders throughout the City, the Department of Buildings has implemented more than 25 new construction safety laws since 2008 to enhance public safety and provide businesses and developers with the confidence to invest in New York City, create good-paying jobs and promote economic growth.

While there were notable decreases in construction-related accidents and injuries, the number of initial construction permits – including new buildings, major and minor alterations and demolitions – increased by 7.7 percent from 80,675 to 86,895 in 2011. This marks the third consecutive year where the issuance of permits has increased, fueled by a rise in small-scale construction, a positive sign for both the construction industry and the economic future of the City.

Examples of the new initiatives launched by the Department of Buildings in recent years to enhance public safety, provide greater oversight and increase industry awareness include:

• First revision of the City’s construction codes in 40 years, which took full effect in 2009 and expanded safety requirements during the construction process;
• More than 25 new construction safety laws, including a smoking ban on all construction sites, mandatory training for all tower crane workers and requiring the uniform color coding and regular pressure testing of standpipe sprinkler systems;
• Creation of a Stalled Sites Unit that has conducted more than 14,000 inspections of stalled construction sites to ensure properties are maintained in a safe manner;
• Creation of a site safety program for major construction projects that allows contractors to submit plans for an enhanced review by Department experts; and
• Launch of Experience Is Not Enough, a citywide safety campaign to encourage construction workers to use proper fall protection, such as safety harnesses, guardrails or nets. More than 12,000 banners, bracelets and posters were distributed to construction sites across the City.