How to Handle a Site Shutdown

Several reasons can cause site shutdowns, including government mandates, severely inclement weather, and site incidents. These shutdowns protect workers’ safety from hazardous site environments and require them to go offsite until the project can be resumed.

Site shutdowns aren’t a rarity. For instance, New York City’s Department of Buildings shut down over 300 construction sites in June 2021 in a zero-tolerance crackdown. The crackdown occurred because of the number of construction deaths earlier in the year. The DOB wished to prevent construction worker injuries and deaths and decided to shut down construction sites until the proper safety measures were implemented.

A 2022 report from the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health shows that more deaths on construction sites occur in New York City than anywhere else in the USA. While NYC construction deaths have been steadily declining for three consecutive years, these figures highlight an underlying problem that the DOB is trying to address.

Handling a Site Shutdown

Construction and demolition sites must take certain precautions during site shutdowns to ensure site safety. They include:

● Securing material to ensure it doesn’t fall or become displaced because it could harm those visiting the site or remaining on the project.

● Locking tools and equipment to prevent them from being moved.

● Securing the project with fencing and guardrails.

● Removing electrical equipment from the site.

● Barricading excavations, trenches, and open holes.

● Locking heavy equipment.

● Posting the necessary warning signs on the site.

● Turning off generators.

● Ensuring temporary lighting is available.

Handling Site Shutdown with Local Law 70 of 2009

Local law 70 of 2009 also lists some protocols that construction and demolition sites must follow to ensure site safety during a shutdown. It also involves creating a detailed suspension plan. The protocols include:

● The suspension plan must include proposed measures to secure the site from unauthorized visitors.

● Proper maintenance of construction fencing with view panels is necessary. Work permits must also be posted on the construction fencing. In addition, excavated sites must be properly shored.

● On-site equipment must be placed properly to minimize harm to public members. In addition, a schedule must be created to inspect the remaining equipment on the worksite.

● Maintenance of fire suppression and detection systems is crucial.

● Removing volatile gases and liquids, stagnant water from excavation sites, construction debris, and excess vegetation is also necessary. 

Get Started with RC Safety Inc

RC Safety Inc provides professional and competitive site safety services for construction sites in NYC. The organization is a site safety consultant for NYC construction projects. If you’re seeking assistance with worksite safety or site construction projects management in NYC, consider visiting their website for more information. Alternatively, you can also contact them to learn more.