Boston Begins Requiring Contractors to File and Vow to Implement Site Safety Plans

The city of Boston will begin requiring construction and demolition contractors to file site-specific safety plans and attest to following them starting December 1.

The requirement is part of the city’s implementation of a new safe construction ordinance that was passed in the wake of several fatal construction accidents in the city including one at the Government Center garage in March 2022 and another in the Seaport District in June 2022.

The ordinance was a collaborative effort among the city, developers, contractors, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and health and safety advocates.

“Every worker deserves to return home safe and healthy each day,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “The implementation of this important ordinance will help ensure that every family can count on work environments centering health and safety, thanks to our partners and community members leading the way on a comprehensive approach to worker safety.”

Beginning December 1, 2023, the ordinance will require construction and demolition sites in Boston seeking a permit with the Inspectional Services Department (ISD) to submit a site safety plan affidavit, implement a project-specific site safety plan and implement a site safety monitoring plan that includes site safety orientations, pre-shift safety meetings, and a site safety coordinator on larger projects.

The ordinance gives ISD enforcement capacity it previously lacked. ISD can now issue violations, stop work, revoke permits, and impose fines up to $300 on permit holders, developers, general contractors/construction managers, and subcontractors found to be in non-compliance with the ordinance.

The city’s is hosting a series of webinars in November to inform permit applicants and contractors about the ordinance requirements and compliance.

Additionally, the city will offer free OSHA 30-hour health and safety training.

Topics Contractors Training Development