FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, August 15, 2019

Contact: Julianne Cho, SBS Director of Communications - jcho@sbs.nyc.gov, 212-513-6318

APPLICATIONS OPEN: CITY OFFERS GRANTS FOR SMALL CONSTRUCTION BUSINESSES TO TRAIN WORKERS FASTER, KEEP THEM SAFER ON THE JOB

Program provides equal access to required construction site safety training

NEW YORK — NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Gregg Bishop today announced that applications are now open for small construction firms to apply for a one-time grant to offset the cost of Site Safety Training.

Small construction firms located in New York City with 1-15 employees, and NYC-certified M/WBE construction firms with 1-15 employees in the region, are eligible for the one-time grant. These grants help businesses to comply with Local Law 196 of 2017, requiring most construction workers to obtain Site Safety training by September 1, 2020. Up to 40,000 construction workers can benefit from Site Safety training through this program as employees of small businesses. This initiative is expected to save small businesses tens of thousands of dollars - the cost of training a single worker can be as much as $1,500.

"SBS is committed to equity of opportunity - and that includes helping our small construction businesses to keep their workers safe on the job, said Gregg Bishop, Commissioner of the Department of Small Business Services. "These grants will allow small construction firms to provide necessary training to their workers more quickly, and help them to thrive in this key economic sector."

How it works:

• Businesses may choose a training provider that is best for their business by selecting from a DOB-approved list.
• Eligible construction firms may apply for the grant online or obtain more information by dialing 311. Businesses are required to submit information that demonstrates their eligibility and completion of training with an authorized provider.

An analyst will review the application and SBS will provide up to 100% reimbursement within two months after the application is finalized.

"Every worker who leaves for the job site in the morning deserves to come home safely at night. We're proud to work with our partners at SBS to make it easier for workers at small construction firms to get the safety training they need. This training is required by law – but even more importantly, it can save lives," said Melanie E. La Rocca, Commissioner of the Department of Buildings.

"We know that construction is one of the most dangerous jobs in New York City. We also know that many workers die because they do not get adequate safety training, especially at smaller businesses. These grants are not just good for business, but will literally save lives, and I am heart warmed knowing that so many families will avoid tragedy because of these grants," said City Council Member Carlos Menchaca.

About the Department of Small Business Services (SBS)
SBS helps unlock economic potential and create economic security for all New Yorkers by connecting New Yorkers to good jobs, creating stronger businesses, and building vibrant neighborhoods across the five boroughs. For more information, visit nyc.gov/sbs, call 311, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.