I would put the job shortage as the main factor, although tight times tempt contractors to take shortcuts.

I did witness one contractor and their subcontractor more rigorously enforcing safety procedures. As smaller companies are taken over by large ones, the larger ones are more concerned with litigation and more inclined to enforce safety.


---- deb bledsoe <[log in to unmask]> wrote: 
> I was wondering if any one had noticed the stepped up enforcement 
> mentioned in this article?
> 
> http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/fatality_drop_for_hardhats_cLXcXxueVP4lDhPRas8F5J
> 
> 
>   Fatality drop for hardhats
> 
> By TOM TOPOUSIS
> 
> /Last Updated:/ 11:15 AM, January 8, 2010
> 
> /Posted:/ 3:38 AM, January 8, 2010
> 
> Construction site deaths fell a whopping 84 percent from last year as 
> the city instituted tougher safety rules and building slowed due to the 
> recession, officials said yesterday.
> 
> Three fatal construction accidents were reported last year, compared 
> with 19 deaths during 2008 -- including nine who died as a result of two 
> horrific crane accidents on the East Side of Manhattan.
> 
> The accidents prompted a sweeping review of safety standards that gave 
> the Buildings Department <http://www.nypost.com/t/Buildings_Department> 
> expanded enforcement powers, while requiring more extensive worker 
> training.
> 
> "We have been working to change the culture of the construction industry 
> - to put public safety ahead of profit - and our message is being 
> heard," said Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri.
> 
> Fatal construction accidents had been rising steadily in connection with 
> the city's building boom, which has since cooled dramatically.
> 
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