Hydrocarbon-Free Status

A documented check of equipment or structures for visible damage, corrosion, or defects — completed without disassembly. Subcontractors are often required to perform or witness EVIs before mobilising equipment on site. Results are typically recorded on inspection forms tied to client or regulatory compliance packages.

Any task that produces open flame, sparks, or heat sufficient to ignite flammable materials. Common examples include welding, cutting, and grinding. Subcontractors typically require a Hot Works permit before starting, and site compliance checks are strict.

A formal process where subcontractors identify and evaluate site-specific risks before work begins. It documents potential dangers, required controls, and responsible parties. Most client operators require a completed hazard assessment before issuing a work permit.

The formal process of documenting incidents where no injury or damage occurred, but easily could have. Subcontractors are typically required to report near-misses to the prime contractor or site owner within a set timeframe. Failure to report can result in contract penalties or disqualification from future work.

A 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.

The U.S. OSHA excavation and trenching standard that subcontractors must follow on American job sites. It requires protective systems for any trench deeper than five feet. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, fines, and contract termination.

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.