Manhattan scaffold work is governed by NYC Admin Code Title 28, Local Law 196 (40 hours Site Safety Training), and NY State Labor Law 240/241 (the Scaffold Law).
Manhattan construction and facade work routinely uses sidewalk sheds, supported scaffolds, and suspended scaffolds. NYC Administrative Code Title 28 Chapter 33 and NYC Building Code Chapter 33 require DOB permits for sidewalk sheds, supported scaffolds over 40 feet, suspended scaffolds, and hoists. Local Law 196 of 2017 requires all construction workers at DOB-permitted job sites (above certain thresholds) to complete 40 hours of OSHA-based Site Safety Training, and Site Safety Managers or Coordinators on major sites. NY State Labor Law Section 240 (the Scaffold Law) and Section 241 impose absolute liability on owners and general contractors for elevation-related injuries and failure to provide proper safety devices. Federal OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L also applies. Sidewalk sheds associated with Local Law 11 facade work can remain for years in Manhattan.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how New York County's scaffold & sidewalk shed rules stack up against other locations.
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