According to a notice from the Department of Buildings all crane operations are temporarily suspended. The DOB asks contractors to take precautionary actions due to high winds predicted for the weekend and until further notice.
Winds upward of 50 mph are expected in NYC during a possible Nor’eatester. The DOB is asking all contractors and property owners to secure contraction sites and buildings. There will be random spot checks around the city. Violations may be issued as well as Stop Work Orders.
Items to be secured are: cranes, suspended and supported scaffolding, hoists and any other building appurtenances the may become loose from exposure to high winds.
To safeguard construction sites, builders, contractors and developers should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:
Tie down and secure material and loose debris at construction sites
- Cover electrical equipment from exposure to the weather
- Store loose tools, oil cans and extra fuses in a tool box
- Secure netting, scaffolding and sidewalk sheds
- Suspend crane operations and secure crane equipment when wind speeds reach 30 mph or greater
- Suspend hoist operations and secure exterior hoists when wind speeds reach 35 mph or greater, unless manufacturer specifications state otherwise
- Brace and secure construction fences
- Call 911 if there is an emergency on a construction site
Buildings Bulletin 2010-019 outlines the requirements for vertical netting, debris netting and material-fall protection devices at buildings and construction sites.
To secure a building, property owners should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:
- Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools and toys
- Anchor objects that would be unsafe outside, such as gas grills or propane tanks.
- Close and secure patio umbrellas
- Secure retractable awnings
- Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes
Under §28-301.1 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York, property owners are legally obligated to maintain their properties in a safe condition. Department weather advisories are strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to prepare their properties for inclement weather and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.
United Rigging hopes to be able to complete any current and future jobs as soon as possible. Contact us if you have any questions.