The Department of Buildings is taking steps to improve its battered reputation, including publicizing its first ever code of conduct for workers in the construction sector.
The code spells out the do’s and dont’s for construction workers when it comes to ethics and standards in licensing. It also outlines the consequences for abusing privileges. A “bill of rights” explains the level of service that customers are entitled to from DOB staffers.
Establishing a code of conduct was made a priority in the May-issued “Building One City” plan, the department said in a press statement.
“One of our crucial strategies to transform the Department is to enhance transparency, and we are doing that by unequivocally stating the ethical standards and expectations of the thousands of construction industry members and professionals who interact with our employees and build in this City,” said Buildings Commissioner Rick Chandler.
The department is reeling from a scandal in which 11 employees were charged in a wide-ranging bribery scheme that resulted in 50 arrests. — Tess Hofmann