Alternative Risk Transfer

The U.S. OSHA excavation and trenching standard that subcontractors must follow on American job sites. It requires protective systems for any trench deeper than five feet. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, fines, and contract termination.

A free national service requiring subcontractors to notify utility companies before any ground disturbance. Utilities mark underground lines within 48–72 hours, reducing strike risk. Non-compliance can result in serious liability, fines, and project shutdowns.

Land or mineral rights owned and managed by the federal government where drilling or construction activity requires federal permits and approvals. Subcontractors working on federal acreage must meet stricter regulatory requirements than on provincial or private land. Expect longer permitting timelines and additional compliance obligations that can affect project schedules and mobilisation.

A U.S. federal agency that regulates safety at mines and quarries. Subcontractors working on mine sites must comply with MSHA standards, separate from OSHA rules. Workers may require site-specific MSHA training before mobilising.

A regulatory requirement mandating fit-tested respirators and written programmes when workers face airborne hazards like H2S, silica, or fumes. Subcontractors must maintain records of fit tests, training, and equipment inspections for each worker. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders or disqualification from site.

Formal approval granted by an oil and gas operator confirming a subcontractor meets their specific safety, training, and insurance standards. Without it, your crews cannot access the operator's sites or perform work. Certification requirements vary by operator and must be renewed regularly.

When a Jobsite Incident Happens: What Field Workers Need to Know Before Signing Anything

What to do after a jobsite injury or incident, what your rights are before signing incident reports, how workers' compensation works, and how to protect yourself on multi-employer worksites.

OSHA Citations on Multi-Employer Worksites: What Subcontractors Need to Know

Learn how OSHA's multi-employer citation policy works, why subcontractors get cited for hazards they didn't create, and how to protect your company on operator-controlled job sites.

How to Read and Negotiate an Oilfield Master Service Agreement (MSA): A Subcontractor's Guide

Learn which MSA clauses actually matter for oilfield subcontractors: indemnity, insurance, payment terms, and change orders. Know what you're signing.