Yesterday, the City of Boston has announced plans to implement the Safe Construction and Demolition Operations Ordinance. The new regulations, due to take effect on December 1, 2023, aim to enhance worker safety at construction and demolition sites in response to continuous calls for improved working conditions.
The ordinance seeks to fill the void in safety protocols, which has, in part led to work-related accidents within Boston's construction industry. Mayor Michelle Wu stressed the necessity of such wide-ranging measures with a comment stating, "for every worker, returning home safe and healthy each day is a deserved right". The ordinance necessitates the submission of a Site Safety Plan Affidavit and enforcement of a Site Safety Monitoring Plan, putting itself at the core of Boston's drive to protect workers and the public.
The Boston ordinance plans to fill gaps in enforcement, by empowering the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) to issue violations, halt work, revoke permits, and impose fines of up to $300 on those who fail to comply. To facilitate this, building inspectors are recently trained by OSHA 30-Hour to better identify and rectify unsafe working conditions.
Additionally, the Worker Empowerment Cabinet will conduct webinars to help permit applicants and contractors familiarize with the ordinance's requirements. Furthering their commitment to worker rights, free OSHA 30-Hour health and safety training will be made available to Site Safety Coordinators.
In the spirit of inclusivity, permit holders will need to conduct Site Safety Orientations and Pre-Shift Safety Meetings in languages workers understand. This step ensures that every worker has access to necessary information and a clear understanding of the new ordinance's enforcement procedures.
