A dispute resolution process where a neutral third party helps subcontractors and clients reach a settlement without going to court. Common in contract payment disputes or scope disagreements. It is faster and cheaper than litigation.
Mediation
Related Terms
Foreign-Flagged Vessel
ComplianceA marine vessel registered under another country's flag rather than the nation where it operates. Subcontractors must verify compliance with cabotage laws, as restrictions may limit which vessels can legally perform local work. This affects equipment mobilisation planning and contract eligibility on offshore projects.
Hazcom (hazard Communication Standard)
ComplianceA 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.
BLM (Bureau of Land Management)
ComplianceA U.S. federal agency that manages public lands and issues permits for oil, gas, and construction operations on those lands. Subcontractors working on BLM-administered land must comply with specific permit conditions, environmental rules, and access requirements. Non-compliance can result in work stoppages or contract penalties.
Performance Bond
ComplianceA surety bond guaranteeing a subcontractor will complete work per contract terms. If you default, the bond compensates the prime contractor or owner. Bonding capacity directly affects your ability to bid larger contracts.
Osha (occupational Safety and Health Administration) Variance
ComplianceA 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.
PSC (Public Service Commission)
ComplianceA provincial regulatory body that oversees public utilities and energy services in its jurisdiction. Subcontractors working on regulated utility projects must ensure their work meets PSC standards and approvals. Non-compliance can delay project sign-off and affect payment milestones.
Latest Compliance News
Deadline Nears for J. J. Keller's 2026 Safety Professional of the Year Awards
J. J. Keller & Associates is accepting applications for its 2026 SPOTY Awards through July 31, with winners receiving prize packages valued up to $47,200.
20 hours agoComplianceDOT Plans New Rules on Truck Braking Systems and Electronic Logging Devices
The Department of Transportation's 2026 regulatory agenda includes a supplemental proposal for automatic emergency braking on heavy trucks and an update to electronic logging device rules, Safety+Health Magazine reports.
20 hours agoComplianceKansas Adds Penalties for Distracted Driving in Work Zones
Kansas' new S.B. 366 bans handheld device use in active construction and school zones, with fines starting July 2027, Safety+Health Magazine reports.
20 hours agoComplianceSafety Psychology Research Offers New Framework for Field Culture
ISHN outlines research on cognitive dissonance and "induced hypocrisy" showing how publicly stated safety values, even when imperfectly followed, can drive real behavior change on job sites.
20 hours agoRelated Guides
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.
Compliance GuideOSHA 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.
Compliance GuideHow 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.
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