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NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package

New York City has some of the strictest construction safety regulations in the country, largely due to its high-rise buildings and dense urban environment. To ensure the safety of both workers and the public, the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) enforces Local Law 196 of 2017, which mandates Site Safety Training (SST) for construction workers and supervisors.

For supervisors in the construction industry, staying compliant requires periodic renewal of their SST Supervisor Card. The NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package is a mandatory training program designed to update supervisors on the latest safety protocols, hazard prevention strategies, and regulatory changes. In this article, we’ll break down what this course covers, who must take it, the certification process, and the benefits of completing it—especially through online training options.

Understanding Local Law 196 and NYC Site Safety Training (SST)

What is Local Law 196?

Local Law 196 of 2017 was enacted to enhance construction site safety by requiring extensive training for workers and supervisors on Major Buildings. It specifies different SST card requirements:

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

To maintain compliance, SST Supervisor Cards must be renewed every five years by completing the 16-hour Supervisor Refresher Package.

 

Who Needs to Take the 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package?

The 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package is required for any individual who holds an SST Supervisor Card that is approaching its five-year expiration date.

Who Must Take This Course?

  • Construction supervisors on NYC Major Building sites.
  • Site Safety Managers (SSMs) and Site Safety Coordinators (SSCs).
  • Competent persons responsible for workplace safety.
  • Forepersons, project managers, and superintendents overseeing construction operations.
  • Anyone with an SST Supervisor Card that is about to expire.

Failing to complete the refresher course before the expiration date means the SST Supervisor Card will become invalid, making the individual ineligible to supervise work on Major Building sites.

What Does the NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package Cover?

This course is designed to reinforce knowledge of construction safety best practices and ensure that supervisors stay informed about the latest DOB regulations and OSHA standards.

Course Modules

  1. Site Safety Responsibilities (8 Hours)
    • Supervisor duties under NYC DOB regulations.
    • Ensuring worker compliance with safety standards.
    • Effective leadership in promoting job-site safety.
  2. Toolbox Talks & Pre-Task Meetings (2 Hours)
    • The role of supervisors in conducting toolbox talks.
    • How to communicate safety information effectively.
    • Strategies for engaging workers in hazard awareness.
  3. NYC Construction Site Standards (2 Hours)
    • Understanding Local Law 196 and SST training requirements.
    • NYC DOB’s enforcement and inspection process.
    • Site-specific safety plans and emergency procedures.
  4. Protection from Falls & Excavation Hazards (2 Hours)
    • Identifying and mitigating fall risks on job sites.
    • Safe use of ladders, scaffolding, and fall arrest systems.
    • OSHA excavation safety standards and trenching hazards.
  5. Drug & Alcohol Awareness (2 Hours)
    • Recognizing substance abuse signs in the workplace.
    • Supervisor responsibilities in maintaining a drug-free site.
    • NYC DOB and OSHA policies on impairment-related hazards.

Certifications Awarded After Completion

After completing the NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package, participants receive:

  1. Certificate of Completion
    • Provided immediately after finishing the training.
    • Can be used as proof of completion while awaiting the updated SST Supervisor Card.
  2. Renewed SST Supervisor Card
    • Issued by an NYC DOB-approved training provider.
    • Valid for another five years before another refresher is required.

Why is the NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Course Important?

1. Maintains Legal Compliance

Supervisors must renew their SST Supervisor Card to continue working on Major Building sites. NYC DOB inspectors strictly enforce compliance, and failure to complete this training can lead to job-site violations or employment termination.

2. Keeps Supervisors Updated on Safety Best Practices

Construction safety standards are constantly evolving. This refresher course ensures supervisors stay current with:

  • New hazard control methods.
  • Updated NYC DOB and OSHA safety regulations.
  • Best practices for managing site safety.

3. Enhances Job-Site Safety & Reduces Accidents

As construction supervisors, ensuring a safe work environment is a primary responsibility. Refresher training helps:

  • Reduce falls, struck-by incidents, and electrical hazards.
  • Reinforce safety leadership skills for managing workers.
  • Prevent OSHA violations and costly fines for job-site safety failures.

4. Improves Career Prospects & Earning Potential

Holding an active SST Supervisor Card increases job stability and qualifies supervisors for higher-paying roles.

  • Supervisors with full SST compliance often earn 15–25% more than uncertified individuals.
  • Many NYC construction firms prioritize hiring certified supervisors to maintain compliance.

Advantages of Taking the NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package Online

Many supervisors choose online training for its flexibility and convenience.

1. Learn at Your Own Pace

  • Online courses allow supervisors to complete training without disrupting their work schedules.
  • Course modules can be paused and resumed as needed.

2. Cost-Effective Training

  • No need for travel or time off work.
  • Lower tuition costs compared to in-person training.

3. Immediate Certification

  • Digital certificates are issued immediately after course completion.
  • Provides proof of compliance while awaiting the official SST Supervisor Card renewal.

4. Interactive & Engaging Learning

  • Online platforms include videos, simulations, and quizzes.
  • Content is updated regularly to reflect new safety standards.

tl;dl NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package

The NYC SST: 16-Hour Supervisor Refresher Package is a critical requirement for supervisors who need to renew their SST Supervisor Card and maintain compliance with Local Law 196. This training ensures that supervisors stay updated on NYC construction safety regulations, OSHA standards, and the latest hazard control methods.

By completing this refresher course, supervisors maintain job eligibility, improve site safety, and increase earning potential. With online training options, it’s now easier than ever to meet the requirements without disrupting work schedules.

For supervisors whose SST Supervisor Card is nearing expiration, enrolling in the 16-Hour Refresher Package is not just a requirement—it’s a career investment.