A private dispute resolution process where a neutral third party settles contract disagreements outside of court. Subcontractors often encounter arbitration clauses in master service agreements. It can limit your right to sue a prime contractor or operator directly.
Arbitration
Related Terms
EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety)
ComplianceA framework governing how subcontractors manage workplace hazards, environmental risks, and worker wellbeing on job sites. Most operators require subcontractors to meet specific EHS standards before awarding contracts. Non-compliance can result in site removal, fines, or disqualification from future work.
Performance Bond
ComplianceA surety bond guaranteeing a subcontractor will complete work per contract terms. If you default, the bond compensates the prime contractor or owner. Bonding capacity directly affects your ability to bid larger contracts.
Pre-Task Planning
ComplianceA structured safety and work review completed by a crew before starting a job on site. Subcontractors use it to identify hazards, assign roles, and confirm equipment readiness. It is often required by the prime contractor before work can begin.
Fall Prevention Campaign
ComplianceA structured site safety initiative targeting fall hazards across elevated work areas, scaffolding, and ladders. Subcontractors are typically required to participate and document compliance as a condition of their contract. It often involves toolbox talks, harness inspections, and audits by the prime contractor.
NORA (National Occupational Research Agenda)
ComplianceA U.S. research framework identifying priority workplace health and safety issues across industries, including oil and gas and construction. NORA findings often shape safety standards and training requirements that affect subcontractor compliance obligations. Field crews should monitor NORA sector updates, as they can signal incoming regulatory changes.
EMR (Experience Modification Rate)
ComplianceA numerical score calculated by insurers that compares your company's workplace injury claims to industry averages. A score below 1.0 indicates a safer-than-average record; above 1.0 signals higher risk. Many prime contractors and operators require subcontractors to maintain a low EMR to qualify for bid lists.
Latest Compliance News
How to Win at Construction Arbitration Before You Ever Enter the Hearing Room
Construction arbitration outcomes are shaped long before the hearing begins. Here's what subcontractors need to know about contract language, documentation, and claim strategy.
11 hours ago ComplianceOSHA Sets August Hearings on 20+ Proposed Rule Rollbacks, Including Chemical and Fall Protection Standards
OSHA has scheduled virtual public hearings beginning August 19 on more than 20 proposed deregulatory rules, covering chemical exposure standards, respiratory protection, and fixed ladder safety systems. Subcontractors have until July 6 to register to testify.
yesterday ComplianceTrench Safety Stand Down Set for June 15-19, Registration Now Open
The National Utility Contractors Association is hosting the Trench Safety Stand Down June 15-19, open to all employers doing trench and excavation work. Utility and pipeline subcontractors can register crews online now.
yesterday ComplianceCSB Warns Chemical Facilities to Prep for Hurricane Season Now
The U.S. Chemical Safety Board is urging chemical facilities to complete hurricane preparations before a single storm can trigger a catastrophic release. Gulf Coast maintenance and turnaround subcontractors should expect heightened client scrutiny this season.
2 days agoRelated Guides
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.
Compliance GuideOSHA 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.
Compliance GuideHow 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.
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