Major buildings: a new DOB class

Following the 2008 revision of the building code, the Department of Buildings created a building class known as a “major building.”  A major building is a structure that meets any of the following criteria:

• Ten stories or higher

• 125 feet high or taller

• Lot coverage of 100,000 square feet or more (regardless of height)

• Designated a major building by the Buildings Commissioner

There are several special considerations to take when working on a major building.  All workers performing construction work on the building must have completed a 10-hour-long construction safety course.  In addition, a site safety manager must be on premises at all times to oversee the work and ensure that everything is done safely and according to protocol.  Finally, all construction, demolition, and major facade alteration projects need a site safety plan drawn up and available on site.