Heat Illness

A belief, based on observable signs, that a worker may be impaired by drugs or alcohol on site. Supervisors must document specific behaviours before initiating a test. Subcontractors are typically required to have trained supervisors capable of making this determination.

The process of obtaining government approvals before starting work that may impact land, water, or air. Subcontractors must confirm permits are in place before mobilising — delays can halt work without pay. Missing or expired permits can expose your company to fines and contract termination.

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.

The process by which operators and prime contractors vet subcontractors before awarding work. It typically involves reviewing insurance, safety records, certifications, and financial stability. Failing to qualify can bar a company from bidding on projects entirely.

The U.S. OSHA standard governing respiratory protection programmes in general industry. Subcontractors working on U.S. job sites must ensure workers are fit-tested and trained before entering areas requiring respirators. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders and disqualification from future bids.

A government's legal right to seize private land for public use, with compensation paid to owners. For subcontractors, it can trigger sudden project delays or site access changes. Always confirm right-of-way status before mobilising crews or equipment.

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.

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.

How 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.