NYC modernizes building codes; 1st time since '68

New York City is revamping its building codes for the first time in four decades to require new safety measures for construction sites and increase penalties for violations.

(Forbes) -- Acting Buildings Commissioner Robert LiMandri says the new codes will "raise construction safety standards to a level never seen before."This is the first time building codes have been modernized since 1968. The changes include a new violation classification system that will allow buildings inspectors to focus on sites posing the greatest risk to the public. The city also will use third-party inspectors at critical points in the construction process and require sprinklers in more buildings.