Bill > S2112

This bill requires the Massachusetts state agencies to develop new safety regulations for the construction industry covering multiple areas of worker and site safety. The proposed regulations mandate comprehensive safety training for different construction roles, including 40 hours of initial training and annual 10-hour refresher courses for craft workers, and 62 hours of training for craft forepersons and workers in specialized areas like concrete, steel, and excavation. For projects over 50,000 square feet, a Site Safety Manager (SSM) must be present at all times, with specific requirements including five years of construction safety experience, a 40-hour SSM course, a background check, a knowledge test, and a physical exam. The bill also introduces detailed safety protocols for scaffolding, concrete formwork, perimeter façade protection, and sidewalk sheds, requiring professional design drawings, licensed professionals for complex tasks, and safety netting. Additionally, the legislation aims to enhance inspection and enforcement capabilities by providing more resources to safety inspection agencies, reclassifying local building inspectors as public safety officials, and establishing stricter compliance standards for general contractors. The overall goal is to significantly improve worker safety and reduce accidents in the construction industry, particularly in high-risk urban environments like Boston.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2112