Safety

At SHL Builders, safety is built into every aspect of our work. As specialists in high-end residential renovations, brownstones, and occupied homes throughout New York City, we have developed proven protocols that protect our team, residents, property, and valuable finishes while maintaining the level of craftsmanship and professionalism our clients expect.

Standards & certifications

We stay at the forefront of construction safety by actively engaging in industry organizations and regularly updating our practices. Our team is trained and certified to meet and exceed all regulatory standards.

OSHA 30-Hour certification for all project managers and supervisors
OSHA 10-Hour certification for all field staff
NYC Site Safety Training (SST) cards for every team member
Lead-Safe certification for residential projects
First Aid and CPR training for key site-foremen
Ongoing refresher training and regulation updates

Custom safety plans

We tailor safety protocols to each project’s scope and environment. These plans evolve with site conditions and project phases:

High-rise renovations

Specialized procedures are in place for material transport, emergency egress, and communication systems. Our crews receive site-specific training to ensure safety around complex building systems.

Occupied residential buildings

We specialize in working within occupied luxury residences and cooperative buildings. Our team carefully isolates work areas, maintains clean and secure common spaces, protects existing finishes, and minimizes disruption to residents while delivering exceptional construction quality.

Safety training and responsibilities

Client & resident protection

Team member safety

Emergency preparedness

Client & resident protection

Air and dust control

Systems are selected not only for performance but also to maintain the professional appearance expected in high-end residential environments.

Noise mitigation

We isolate construction zones, implement advanced dust-control systems, maintain clean pathways, protect existing finishes, and provide advance notice of disruptive activities. Our crews are trained to work respectfully and professionally within occupied homes and residential buildings.

Traffic management

Clear pathways and designated construction access routes are maintained at all times to ensure resident safety while minimizing disruption to building operations and daily routines.

On-site professionalism

Our crews are trained to work within luxury residences, occupied homes, and cooperative buildings with professionalism, discretion, and respect. We understand that we are guests in our clients' homes and represent both SHL Builders and the project team at all times.

Team member safety

Daily briefings

Each day begins with a focused safety meeting tailored to the day’s tasks and risks.

Personal protective equipment protocols

We go beyond minimum standards, supplying task-specific protective gear and enforcing usage with zero exceptions.

Culture of accountability

Our culture promotes accountability at every level. Team members are encouraged to identify potential risks, protect project quality, and take ownership of maintaining a safe, organized, and professional jobsite.

Internal and third-party audits

We conduct regular inspections to identify improvements and maintain high standards.

Emergency preparedness

Custom emergency plans

Each job site has a dedicated emergency response plan, including evacuation routes, contact protocols, and coordination with building systems.

First aid access

We maintain stocked medical stations on-site and ensure trained responders are always present.

Emergency drills

Regular emergency drills prepare teams to respond quickly and decisively during critical situations on-site.

Incident management

Every incident or near-miss is documented, investigated, and used as a learning opportunity to further reduce risks.

Insurance coverage

Our policy covers up to $10 million in general liability and umbrella insurance. Certificates are available upon request to clients, architects, and building management. Our strong safety record and disciplined project management allow us to maintain favorable relationships with trusted insurers while providing clients, architects, and building management with confidence throughout the construction process.

General liability insurance exceeding industry standards
Workers’ compensation for all employees
Professional liability coverage
Builder’s risk insurance for active sites
Umbrella policies providing additional protection

Standards & certifications

SHL Builders maintains a strong safety record that reflects the strength of our systems and training.

0.75

Experience Modification Rate (EMR), well below the industry average (>1)

Recorded lost-time incidents in the past three years

99%

Consistently high success rate in safety audits

Continuous improvement

We believe safety, organization, and project execution should evolve alongside new technologies, materials, and jobsite realities. Continuous improvement helps us deliver cleaner jobsites, better client experiences, and higher-quality construction outcomes.

Monthly safety meetings bring together management and field teams to review practices and identify areas for refinement.

We welcome suggestions from all team members, knowing that those on the ground often have the clearest perspective.

Annual reviews benchmark our program against industry best practices and incorporate new technologies and techniques.

Safety & insurance FAQs

We offer comprehensive protection with $10M in general and umbrella liability, workers' compensation, builder's risk coverage, and professional liability insurance. Certificates are available on request.

We use negative air systems, HEPA filters, sealed work areas, and thorough, regular cleaning. For sensitive projects, we monitor particulate levels and adapt as needed.

All project managers are OSHA 30-certified, hold SST cards, and are trained in First Aid/CPR. Many also complete advanced training in fall protection and confined space entry.

We create project-specific safety and logistics plans tailored to each building's requirements. Our team coordinates closely with building management, architects, designers, and residents to ensure smooth project execution with minimal disruption.

Immediate action is taken to secure the site and address the issue. We notify clients and management, conduct a full investigation, and implement changes to prevent recurrence.

Our Experience Modification Rate is 0.75, lower than the industry average, signaling a low rate of workplace incidents and cost-effective insurance.

Yes. All installed systems (fire protection, emergency lighting, etc.) are covered by manufacturer and workmanship warranties, with regular follow-up checks during the warranty period.

Still have questions? Reach out to our SHL Builders representative, we’re here to help. Ask a Question

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Give us a call at: 212 920 0185

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