As we head toward 2025, construction companies in New York City need to be prepared for significant changes impacting both Site Safety Training (SST) card renewals and NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) compliance requirements. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard by new regulations that could result in costly penalties, project delays, or worse—being forced to pull workers from job sites due to non-compliance.
Here’s what you need to know:
Massive Increase in SST Card Renewals
Over 60,000 SST cards will require renewal in 2025, which is triple the number due for renewal in 2024. There is no grace period for expired SST cards, meaning any worker without a valid card will be barred from job sites. To avoid delays, workers should complete their required training 60 days before their card expires and submit renewal applications no later than 30 days before expiration.
Changes to NYC DOB Code – December 11, 2024
The definition of a "major building" is changing under NYC law. Starting on December 11, 2024, any new building 7 stories or 75 feet or higher will be classified as a major building. This new classification will require both a registered Construction Superintendent (CS) and either a Site Safety Manager (SSM) or Site Safety Coordinator (SSC). If your project falls under this category, make sure your team members are qualified and certified. Check out the NYC Service Notice here.
Course Provider Closures Could Delay Verifications
Several DOB-approved training providers have closed their doors this year, which could make it difficult to verify course completion for workers applying for new or renewed SST cards. If your provider is no longer operating, this could mean retaking courses, leading to potential delays and additional costs. Plan ahead by giving yourself extra time to ensure smooth verification.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
The penalties for having untrained or expired card-holding workers on site are steep. The DOB can issue fines up to $5,000 per untrained worker, and workers with expired SST cards are treated the same as untrained workers. You also risk site delays and wage loss if workers are pulled from the job for compliance issues.
Lift Director Registration Reminder
As a friendly reminder, per the NYCDOB, beginning January 2025, to register as a Lift Director, the applicant must successfully complete a lift director training course of at least 32 hours in length, as mandated by Section 28-424.3 of the New York City Administrative Code. This course is a prerequisite for registration as a Lift Director and licensure as a Master Rigger.
Introduction of the Worker Wallet Card
The NYC DOB has announced the introduction of the Worker Wallet Card. This card will replace individually issued cards for the following positions:
Mast Climber User/Operator
Climber/Tower Crane Rigger
Rigging Worker
Periodic Gas Piping Inspector
Supported Scaffold User
Supported Scaffold Installer & Remover
Suspended Scaffold Supervisor
Suspended Scaffold User
Starting July 1, 2025, the Worker Wallet will be the ONLY card accepted on NYC job sites. Read more here.
Navigating these upcoming changes can be challenging, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Construction Force Services, we specialize in providing a skilled workforce that is not only safety-certified but also fully compliant with all NYC regulations. By partnering with us, you can ensure your job sites are staffed with workers who meet every requirement—no gaps, no delays.
Our all-inclusive services mean that you won’t just get compliant tradesmen, but you’ll also have peace of mind. Our rates cover payroll taxes, workers' compensation, and general liability, so you’re protected on all fronts.
Don’t wait until compliance issues slow down your projects. Secure your workforce now and ensure that you’re prepared for the changes ahead in 2025. Let Construction Force Services be your partner in staying compliant and keeping your projects on track.
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