The near-collapse of 235 East 42nd Street on July 7th took the city by surprise, but not the building trades unions that have warned developers and the public about safety issues and substandard conditions on non-union construction sites. The former headquarters of Pfizer is being converted into a residential building with an additional 15 floors, but MetroLoft Developers failed to reinforce the structural steel and columns could be seen buckling under the weight of the floors above the 21st story. The fact that nobody was hurt, or worse, was a miracle.
Read more about the emergency response and prior safety violations at the site in the LaborPress and The City Reporter.
Local 3 members are urged to report any safety concerns or unsafe conditions to the Construction Desk by calling (718) 591-4000 ext. 440. As always, your safety is our top priority.
