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ComplianceGlossary Term

DOL (Department of Labour)

The U.S. federal agency that enforces wage, hour, and worker classification laws affecting subcontractors. It oversees rules on overtime pay, prevailing wages, and employee vs. contractor status. Non-compliance can trigger audits, back-pay orders, and significant penalties.

Related Terms

CBP (Customs and Border Protection)

Compliance

The U.S. federal agency that regulates the entry of workers, equipment, and materials across the Canadian-American border, which subcontractors must navigate when mobilising crews or hauling specialised equipment into U.S. job sites. Non-compliance with CBP requirements can result in delays at the border, seized equipment, or crews being turned away, making proper documentation and advance planning critical for cross-border field work.

Loading Away From the Face

Compliance

A blasting technique where explosives are loaded starting from the back of the borehole toward the opening. This reduces the risk of premature detonation during charging operations. Subcontractors must follow site-specific protocols, as improper loading sequences can trigger serious safety violations.

BOEM (Bureau of Ocean Energy Management)

Compliance

The U.S. federal agency overseeing offshore energy leasing on the Outer Continental Shelf. Subcontractors working U.S. offshore projects must meet BOEM-driven compliance requirements set by their prime contractors. Permits and operational approvals from BOEM directly affect project timelines and mobilisation schedules.

Surface Use Plan

Compliance

A document outlining how land above a wellsite or pipeline corridor can be accessed and used during operations. Subcontractors must follow it to avoid disturbing restricted areas or triggering landowner disputes. Non-compliance can result in work stoppages or liability on your crew.

FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission)

Compliance

The U.S. federal body that regulates interstate energy infrastructure, including pipelines and transmission lines. Projects requiring FERC approval often have strict compliance timelines that affect subcontractor scheduling and scope. Work on FERC-regulated assets may require additional permitting and documentation.

Trench Cave-in Protection

Compliance

Mandatory safety systems used to prevent trench walls from collapsing on workers during excavation. Common methods include shoring, sloping, and trench boxes. Subcontractors are legally responsible for implementing compliant cave-in protection before workers enter any trench deeper than 1.2 metres.

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