AS YWN had reported earlier (News Alerts), heavy thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 60 mph are forecast for the New York City area Tuesday, May 27. In preparation for the windy weather, the Buildings Department is reminding all builders, contractors, and property owners to secure their construction sites and buildings. The Buildings Department will be performing random spot-check inspections of construction sites around the city. If construction sites are not safely secured in preparation for the inclement weather, the Department will take immediate enforcement action with the issuance of violations and Stop Work Orders if necessary.

“The Buildings Department will have zero tolerance for builders, contractors, and property owners who compromise safety by failing to take appropriate safety measures to secure their construction sites and buildings,” said Acting Buildings Commissioner Robert D. LiMandri.

Wind gusts may reach higher speeds than forecast in different parts of New York City. Property owners must consider the safety of their buildings and construction sites, cranes, suspended and supported scaffolding, and any other building appurtenances that may come loose from exposure to high winds. Structures that have been subject to deferred maintenance or are in delicate condition could be at greater risk. The Buildings Department strongly suggests consulting a professional to advise how to safely secure construction sites and buildings.

To secure 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 and scaffolding.
Suspend crane operations and secure crane equipment.
Secure exterior construction elevators.
Brace and secure construction fences.
Call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency on a construction site.
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 up and secure patio umbrellas.
Secure retractable awnings.
Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes.
New Yorkers are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to report non-compliant conditions or 9-1-1 to report emergencies at construction sites or buildings. New Yorkers who suspect a building or property has been structurally compromised should call 9-1-1.