The FAR governs purchasing rules for U.S. federal contracts, including subcontractor requirements on government-funded projects. If your prime contractor holds a federal contract, FAR clauses flow down and bind your work. These rules cover pricing, record-keeping, audits, and labour standards you must follow.
FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation)
Related Terms
Classification (aggregate)
ComplianceA method of grouping all subcontractor invoices or costs together to assess total contract value or spending thresholds. Owners and primes use aggregate classification to trigger compliance requirements, audit rights, or tiered pricing terms. Subcontractors should track cumulative billing carefully, as crossing thresholds can change contract obligations.
RBI (Risk-based Inspection)
ComplianceA method that prioritises equipment inspections based on failure risk and consequence severity. Subcontractors may be required to follow RBI schedules set by operators rather than fixed calendar intervals. Understanding RBI helps field crews anticipate inspection scopes and mobilisation timing.
Customs Broker
ComplianceA licensed intermediary who handles import and export paperwork for equipment and materials crossing international borders. Subcontractors moving tools or machinery into Canada or the U.S. often hire one to avoid costly delays. They ensure duties, tariffs, and compliance documents are filed correctly.
CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information)
ComplianceSensitive government or client data that requires protection but is not classified as secret. Subcontractors handling site plans, personnel records, or project specs may be legally required to safeguard CUI. Mishandling it can result in contract termination or regulatory penalties.
Hold Point
ComplianceA mandatory stop in work where a client or inspector must review and sign off before the subcontractor can proceed. Missing a hold point can void certifications or trigger costly rework. Always confirm hold points during project kickoff to avoid schedule delays.
Osha 1926 Subpart P
ComplianceThe U.S. federal standard governing excavation and trenching safety on construction sites. Subcontractors must comply with shoring, sloping, and protective system requirements before workers enter any excavation. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, fines, and loss of site access.
Latest Compliance News
Six Mine Safety Shifts Subcontractors Need to Watch in 2026
From a stalled silica rule to new S&S citation standards, Pit & Quarry outlines six enforcement developments that could significantly change compliance obligations for mine operators and their subcontractors.
yesterday ComplianceTexas Oilfield Theft Task Force Holds Second Meeting as Industry Reports Widespread Losses
A Texas legislative task force on petroleum theft held its second quarterly meeting in Midland, with data showing more than 40% of oil and gas operators reported theft impacts in the past year. Here's what Permian Basin subcontractors need to know.
yesterday ComplianceAggregates Leaders Flag MSHA Changes and Highway Bill Timing at 2026 Pit & Quarry Roundtable
Industry executives gathered in Naples, Florida to discuss MSHA regulatory developments, infrastructure funding, and market conditions affecting the aggregates sector.
2 days ago ComplianceOSHA 1926.651: What Excavation Contractors Must Do to Stay Compliant
OSHA 1926.651 sets specific requirements for excavation safety during utility installation work. Here's what field subcontractors need to know to avoid violations, fines, and liability.
4 days agoRelated Guides
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.
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.
Stay sharp on field operations
Industry news and insights, delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe to FieldNews