Code: Accident (outdated construction term)
Description: (Accident) is the older term for an unplanned event on a construction or demolition site, now replaced in NYC DOB and OSHA rules by the word "Incident." The change was made to reflect that most unplanned events are preventable, not random.
Practical Meaning: If you see the word "accident" in an older DOB letter or inspection report, it means the same thing as "incident" in current rules. You do not need to take any extra action because of the word itself, but you must still respond to any violation or notice attached to that event.
Where You May See It: Older DOB letters, pre-2014 inspection reports, OSHA documents, contractor safety plans, and older NYC construction code references.
Why It Matters: NYC DOB and OSHA stopped using the word "accident" after the 2014 Construction Codes because the word implies events cannot be prevented, which is no longer accepted in safety law. If you see it in any current official document, it may signal an outdated template or form that should be reviewed.