Jones Act

A formal permit allowing a subcontractor to use an alternative method that differs from a standard OSHA regulation. It is granted when the alternative provides equal or greater worker protection. Subcontractors must apply directly and remain compliant with all variance conditions during field operations.

The licensed engineer or firm legally responsible for a project's design documents and specifications. Subcontractors must follow their approved drawings exactly — any field changes require written authorisation from the Designer of Record. Deviating without approval can void liability protection and trigger compliance issues.

Materials or conditions that can cause fires, explosions, or toxic releases through chemical reactions when exposed to heat, water, or other substances. Subcontractors must identify these hazards before work begins and follow site-specific handling protocols. Common examples in oilfield and construction work include peroxides, unstable gases, and certain drilling chemicals.

A group of synthetic chemicals found in firefighting foams, protective gear, and some industrial fluids used on job sites. Subcontractors may face handling restrictions, disposal requirements, and liability exposure under evolving federal and provincial regulations. Always check site-specific PFAS protocols before mobilising, as non-compliance can result in fines or contract termination.

The practice of properly restraining equipment, materials, and tools on vehicles during transport to prevent shifting or falling. Subcontractors are legally responsible for securing their own loads under provincial and federal transport regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines, licence suspensions, or liability for road incidents.

Electrical switchgear and distribution equipment operating between 1 kV and 35 kV, commonly found on industrial sites and large construction projects. Subcontractors working near or on this equipment typically require specialised high-voltage certifications and site-specific safety training. Improper handling can trigger serious liability and compliance issues for your crew.

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.