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ComplianceGlossary Term

Competent Person

A worker recognised by a client or regulator as having the training, experience, and authority to identify hazards and direct safe work. Subcontractors are often required to designate a Competent Person on-site before work begins. Failing to do so can result in work stoppages or lost contracts.

Related Terms

Workers' Compensation Premium

Compliance

The periodic fee subcontractors pay to provincial workers' compensation boards to fund injury coverage for their workers. Premium rates vary by industry classification and your company's claims history. High premiums directly impact your labour costs and project bid pricing.

Osha (occupational Safety and Health Administration) Variance

Compliance

A formal permit allowing a subcontractor to use an alternative method that differs from a standard OSHA regulation. It is granted when the alternative provides equal or greater worker protection. Subcontractors must apply directly and remain compliant with all variance conditions during field operations.

Crystalline Silica Rule

Compliance

A regulatory standard requiring subcontractors to limit worker exposure to airborne silica dust on worksites. Common in drilling, sandblasting, and concrete cutting operations. Requires action plans, air monitoring, and respirator programmes for affected crews.

FHWA (Federal Highway Administration)

Compliance

A U.S. federal agency that sets regulations for highway construction, maintenance, and safety standards. Subcontractors working on federally funded road projects must meet FHWA compliance requirements. This includes equipment standards, worker safety rules, and reporting obligations.

Heat Illness Prevention

Compliance

Protocols subcontractors must follow to protect field crews from heat-related conditions during outdoor or hot-environment work. Includes hydration schedules, shade access, acclimatisation plans, and buddy checks. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, liability exposure, or lost contracts.

Safety Stand-Down

Compliance

A mandatory work stoppage called by a prime contractor or owner to address an immediate safety concern or incident. All field personnel halt operations and gather for a safety review before work resumes. Subcontractors must comply immediately, regardless of schedule or milestone pressures.

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