What You Need To Know About NYC SST Training

NYC’s Site Safety Training (SST) is a requirement under Local Law 196 of 2017, aimed at increasing safety awareness and reducing accidents on construction sites. Workers and supervisors must complete specific safety training to comply with this law. Whether you’re new to the construction industry or an experienced worker, it’s essential to understand what SST training entails and how to stay compliant.

What Is SST Training? SST training refers to a series of safety courses designed to educate construction workers and supervisors about the risks associated with their work and how to prevent accidents. These courses meet the requirements set by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) and focus on topics such as fall prevention, personal protective equipment (PPE), site safety plans, and other essential safety measures.

Who Needs SST Training? Local Law 196 mandates that workers and supervisors on certain construction sites complete the required training. This includes:

• Workers must complete 40 hours of safety training to receive an SST Worker Card.
• Supervisors must complete 62 hours of training to obtain an SST Supervisor Card.

The law applies to all workers on job sites that require a Construction Superintendent, Site Safety Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager.

What Are the Required Courses for SST?

1. For Workers (40 hours of training):

   • OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Course (or OSHA 30-Hour)
   • 8-Hour Fall Prevention
   • 2-Hour Drug and Alcohol Awareness
   • Additional approved safety courses to meet the 40-hour requirement

2. For Supervisors (62 hours of training):

   • OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Course
   • 8-Hour Fall Prevention
   • 8-Hour Site Safety Manager Refresher/Chapter 33
   • 4-Hour Supported Scaffold User
   • Additional courses as per DOB regulations

How to Get Your SST Card:

1. Complete the Required Training: Whether online or in-person, make sure to take your courses from a DOB-approved training provider.
2. Get Your SST Card: Once you complete the necessary hours, you will receive your SST card, which serves as proof of your training.
3. Keep Your Card Updated: SST cards are valid for five years, after which you’ll need to complete refresher training to renew your card.

Online and In-Person Training Options: Workers can take their SST training both online and in person, depending on their schedule and learning preferences. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to complete the training at your own pace, while in-person classes may provide more hands-on instruction. Be sure to choose a training provider approved by the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).

Why Is SST Training Important?

1. Ensures Legal Compliance: Completing SST training is a legal requirement for many workers on NYC construction sites. Employers and contractors must ensure all employees have their SST cards to avoid penalties and fines.

2. Promotes a Safer Work Environment: SST training focuses on preventing common construction accidents like falls, scaffolding incidents, and electrical hazards, making the job site safer for everyone.

3. Improves Employability: Many contractors and employers in NYC will only hire workers who have completed their SST training, making the SST card a valuable credential for advancing your construction career.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with SST requirements can result in penalties for both workers and employers. Contractors may face fines of up to $5,000 per untrained worker, while workers may be barred from job sites that require SST certification.

Conclusion: SST training is essential for anyone working in the NYC construction industry. By completing the required safety courses, you not only comply with Local Law 196 but also enhance your skills, protect your health, and boost your employability. Make sure to choose a certified training provider and keep your SST card current to stay safe and compliant on the job.