A mandatory work pause requiring crews to verify no buried utilities or underground hazards exist before digging or drilling begins. Subcontractors are typically contractually responsible for completing all locates and documented checks before breaking ground. Failure to comply can void insurance coverage and expose your company to full liability for strikes.
Stop-Before-Strike
Related Terms
Punitive Damages
ComplianceCourt-ordered payments that go beyond compensating actual losses, intended to punish serious misconduct. Subcontractors can face these for gross negligence or wilful safety violations. Many prime contracts include clauses limiting or waiving punitive damage liability.
Walkaround Inspection
ComplianceA pre-shift visual check of equipment, vehicles, or a worksite to identify hazards, damage, or defects before work begins. Subcontractors are typically required to document findings using a checklist. Incomplete or skipped inspections can create liability exposure and violate site safety requirements.
FCI (Federal Contract Information)
ComplianceInformation provided by or generated for a federal government contract, but not intended for public release. Subcontractors handling FCI must meet specific cybersecurity and data protection requirements. Non-compliance can result in contract termination or disqualification from future federal work.
Api 579
ComplianceAPI 579 (Fitness-For-Service) is an industry standard used to assess whether ageing or damaged equipment is safe to keep operating. Subcontractors may be required to support or comply with these assessments during inspection and maintenance scopes. Understanding it helps when working alongside integrity engineers on pressure vessels, piping, and tanks.
Federal-Aid Highway Programs
ComplianceU.S. government funding programmes that finance highway construction and repair projects. Subcontractors working on federally funded road work must meet strict compliance requirements, including prevailing wage and DBE rules. Understanding these programmes helps firms qualify for and bid on publicly funded infrastructure contracts.
Asme Bpv (boiler and Pressure Vessel) Code
ComplianceA set of standards governing the design, fabrication, and inspection of pressure vessels and boilers. Subcontractors working on pressure equipment must ensure their work meets applicable ASME BPV sections or risk failing inspection. Non-compliance can result in project shutdowns, liability exposure, and lost contracts.
Latest Compliance News
McElhattan Foundation Offering $1 Million Prizes to Eliminate Workplace Electrocutions
The McElhattan Foundation has extended deadlines for its Zero Electrocution Challenge, offering two $1 million grants for innovations that eliminate on-the-job electrical hazards. Registration closes Sept. 1, 2026.
20 hours ago ComplianceTexas RRC Hits Oil and Gas Operators With $1.1 Million in Enforcement Penalties
The Railroad Commission of Texas approved more than $1.1 million in fines at its latest open meeting, targeting operators across drilling, production, and pipeline operations. Field service companies working in Texas should take note.
20 hours ago ComplianceOSHA Sets August Hearings on 20+ Proposed Rule Rollbacks, Including Chemical and Fall Protection Standards
OSHA has scheduled virtual public hearings beginning August 19 on more than 20 proposed deregulatory rules, covering chemical exposure standards, respiratory protection, and fixed ladder safety systems. Subcontractors have until July 6 to register to testify.
2 days ago ComplianceTrench Safety Stand Down Set for June 15-19, Registration Now Open
The National Utility Contractors Association is hosting the Trench Safety Stand Down June 15-19, open to all employers doing trench and excavation work. Utility and pipeline subcontractors can register crews online now.
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