On December 19, 2024, the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) issued a historic bulletin establishing clear rules for digital record-keeping in the construction industry. For those in the field, this was a game-changer—something most never imagined would happen. It marked a new era where pen, paper, printers, and binders could finally be left behind. But this transformation didn't happen overnight, and SafetyClerk played a key role in making it possible. Here's the story of how we helped change the construction landscape in NYC forever.
The Beginning: Identifying the Problem
In the summer of 2023, SafetyClerk started hearing a recurring concern from clients and prospects: the lack of clarity from the DOB on digital record-keeping. Although the building code didn't explicitly prohibit digital records, the absence of official guidelines left many worried about compliance risks. Construction managers and subcontractors wanted the convenience and security of digital systems but feared that DOB inspections might not accept them.
We knew something had to be done. The potential for digital solutions to enhance record-keeping, streamline compliance, and improve site safety was enormous. But without official recognition, the industry would remain stuck in outdated, inefficient practices.
The Push for Change
Determined to clarify the situation, SafetyClerk requested a meeting with the DOB. In late October 2023, our team, including engineers and safety experts, sat down with DOB officials. We presented a comprehensive demo of our system, highlighting how digital record-keeping could:
- Improve data security and make records tamper-proof.
- Enable faster, more efficient inspections.
- Enhance overall compliance and accountability on job sites.
The meeting was a success, and the DOB agreed to pilot digital record-keeping on active construction sites.
The Pilot Program: Proving the Value of Digital
Between January and Spring 2024, over 45 job sites using SafetyClerk participated in the pilot program. DOB enforcement inspectors visited these sites daily, conducting standard inspections while utilizing digital records.
The results were undeniable. On SafetyClerk-enabled sites, inspection times dropped by an average of 70% compared to traditional pen-and-paper workflows. Digital records eliminated time wasted searching for physical documents or verifying their authenticity. The DOB saw firsthand how digital solutions could transform their processes, making compliance faster, safer, and more reliable.
Pushing for High Standards
Once the pilot's success was clear, the next challenge was to establish rules for digital record-keeping. At SafetyClerk, we advocated for the highest standards to ensure the integrity and security of digital systems. We worked closely with the DOB to develop guidelines that included:
- Unforgeable Documents: Digital records must be tamper-proof.
- Unique Worker Profiles: Every worker must have a secure, unique profile to ensure all signatures and reviews are authentic.
- Legislation-Recognized Protocols: All digital systems must comply with established standards, such as ESRA (the Electronic Signatures and Records Act).
We also suggested to eliminate the need for printing altogether, advocating for fully paperless workflows that would save time, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact.
The Bulletin Is Born
Once the draft language for the bulletin was complete, the DOB circulated it to industry associations for feedback. The core guidelines remained intact, and on December 19, 2024, the bulletin was officially issued.
After 14 months of relentless effort, NYC had a comprehensive framework for digital record-keeping in construction. The rules are strict, as they should be, and ensure that digital systems deliver on their promise of security, efficiency, and transparency.
A New Era
With this bulletin, NYC construction sites no longer need to rely on paper-based systems. Digital logs can now be created, stored, and accessed in seconds, revolutionizing how the industry operates.
SafetyClerk is proud to have been a driving force behind this change. Our platform not only meets but exceeds the bulletin's requirements, setting a benchmark for excellence in digital safety compliance.
This milestone is more than a win for SafetyClerk—it's a win for the entire industry. Together, we've laid the foundation for a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable future in construction.
Welcome to the new standard. Welcome to the future.
Interested in learning how SafetyClerk can help your job site go digital? Contact us to schedule a demo today!
