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ComplianceGlossary Term

Lead Service Line Replacement

A regulated programme to remove and replace lead water pipes connecting mains to buildings. Subcontractors are often mobilised under municipal contracts to perform excavation, pipe removal, and restoration work. Compliance with environmental and safety regulations is mandatory throughout.

Related Terms

OHS (Occupational Health and Safety Act)

Compliance

Provincial legislation that sets minimum safety standards for all workers on a job site, including subcontractors. As a subcontractor, you are legally responsible for your crew's compliance, even when working under a prime contractor. Violations can result in fines, stop-work orders, or loss of site access.

Protective Systems

Compliance

Engineered controls used to prevent cave-ins, collapses, or hazardous exposures at excavation and confined space sites, including shoring, trench boxes, sloping, and shielding. Required by regulation on any excavation deeper than 1.2 metres. Subcontractors are typically responsible for selecting and installing the correct system before workers enter.

Personal Fall Arrest System

Compliance

A PFAS (Personal Fall Arrest System) is safety equipment that stops a worker from hitting the ground during a fall. It typically includes a full-body harness, lanyard, and anchor point. Subcontractors must ensure PFAS equipment is inspected, certified, and meets provincial and federal regulations before workers go at height.

Arbitration

Compliance

A private dispute resolution process where a neutral third party settles contract disagreements outside of court. Subcontractors often encounter arbitration clauses in master service agreements. It can limit your right to sue a prime contractor or operator directly.

Excavation Protective Systems

Compliance

Engineered safeguards—such as shoring, shielding, or sloping—used to prevent trench or excavation collapse on job sites. Subcontractors are typically responsible for selecting and installing the correct system based on soil conditions and depth. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, fines, or liability for injuries.

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.

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