FieldNews
Subscribe

Daily oil & gas and construction news for subcontractors

ComplianceGlossary Term

Hazcom (hazard Communication Standard)

A regulatory requirement mandating that workers are informed about hazardous chemicals on site through labels, Safety Data Sheets, and training. Subcontractors must maintain compliant SDS binders and ensure crews are trained before handling any hazardous materials. Non-compliance can result in site removal or fines from regulators like WorkSafeBC or the OHS.

Related Terms

DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise)

Compliance

A certification recognising businesses owned by minorities, women, or economically disadvantaged individuals. Prime contractors on federally funded projects often must subcontract a percentage of work to certified DBEs. Holding DBE status can open doors to set-aside contracts and preferred bidder programmes.

Reclamation

Compliance

The process of restoring a work site to its original or agreed-upon condition after project completion. Subcontractors are often scoped for reclamation work including grading, revegetation, and soil remediation. Reclamation scopes are regulated and must meet provincial closure criteria before sign-off.

Evacuation Readiness

Compliance

A subcontractor's documented ability to safely remove all personnel from a worksite during an emergency. It includes maintained muster lists, assigned roles, and verified escape routes. Primes often audit subcontractor evacuation plans before mobilisation.

Worker Misclassification

Compliance

Occurs when a subcontractor or field worker is incorrectly classified as an independent contractor instead of an employee. This exposes hiring companies to back-taxes, penalties, and liability for unpaid benefits. CRA audits in oil and gas and construction regularly target this issue.

MI (Mechanical Integrity)

Compliance

A regulatory and operational standard confirming that pressure-containing equipment is fit for service and free from defects. Subcontractors working on vessels, pipelines, or wellheads must often meet MI requirements before commencing work. Non-compliance can halt operations and trigger liability for field service crews.

Hazmat-Permitted Storage

Compliance

Designated facilities licenced to store hazardous materials such as fuel, chemicals, or drilling fluids under strict regulatory approval. Subcontractors must verify their storage sites hold valid permits before mobilising hazardous goods to a worksite. Non-compliance can trigger project shutdowns, fines, or loss of contract eligibility.

Stay sharp on field operations

Industry news and insights, delivered to your inbox.

Subscribe to FieldNews
A community project byAimsio