Run-Life

The pipelines, compressor stations, and processing facilities that move and condition product between the wellhead and end markets. For subcontractors, it represents a major source of maintenance, construction, and inspection work. Contracts here often involve long project timelines and strict regulatory oversight.

Large-scale projects to expand or modernise pipeline or power transmission infrastructure. For subcontractors, these generate significant work in welding, civil prep, and equipment installation. Scopes are often phased, requiring flexible crew deployment and quick mobilisation.

The full cost of completing a scope of work, including labour, equipment, materials, and indirect expenses. Subcontractors use TIC to build accurate bids and avoid underpricing complex field installations. Owners and GCs often benchmark TIC when evaluating competing quotes.

Refers to oil and gas or construction operations located on land, as opposed to offshore or marine environments. For subcontractors, onshore work typically means different mobilisation logistics, certification requirements, and rate structures. Most Canadian field service activity in Alberta and Saskatchewan is onshore.

The heaviest category of commercial trucks, rated at over 33,001 lbs gross vehicle weight. Common in oil and gas field work for hauling heavy equipment, frac sand, and pipe. Operators require a Class 1 licence in Canada.

The treatment of raw natural gas to remove impurities and separate saleable products like propane and condensate. Processing plants are major work sites for subcontractors providing maintenance, instrumentation, and turnaround services. Scopes can be large and ongoing, making them reliable sources of repeat field work.

How Operator Mergers and Acquisitions Affect Your Subcontract Agreements

When operators merge, get acquired, or sell assets, subcontractor agreements are caught in the middle. Learn how M&A activity affects your MSA, payment terms, vendor status, and what to do before, during, and after a deal closes.

How Rig Count Trends Affect Subcontractor Demand and What to Do About It

Rig counts are the earliest signal of where field service work is heading. Learn how to read drilling activity trends, anticipate demand shifts, and position your crew before the phone stops ringing.

What Is an AFE in Oil and Gas and How Does It Affect Subcontractor Payments?

An AFE (Authorization for Expenditure) controls every dollar spent on an oilfield project. Learn how it affects your billing, change orders, and cash flow as a subcontractor.