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IndustryGlossary Term

Suspension Order

A formal directive from a prime contractor or operator to halt work on a project temporarily. Subcontractors must stop billable activities but may still incur standby costs. Review your contract carefully, as suspension terms affect demobilisation, remobilisation, and delay compensation.

Related Terms

Alternative Delivery Models

Industry

Contracting arrangements beyond traditional lump-sum or day-rate structures, such as alliance, integrated project delivery, or performance-based contracts. These models shift how subcontractors are engaged, paid, and held accountable for outcomes. Understanding them helps field service firms assess risk, pricing strategy, and scope responsibilities before signing.

DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid)

Industry

A urea-based solution injected into diesel exhaust systems to reduce harmful emissions on Tier 4 equipment. Subcontractors must keep adequate DEF on-site, as running out triggers engine derate or shutdown. Factor DEF supply and storage into your remote site logistics planning.

Working Interest

Industry

An ownership stake in an oil and gas lease that obligates the holder to pay a share of exploration and production costs. For subcontractors, knowing who holds working interest helps identify who is ultimately responsible for approving work orders and invoices. Operators typically hold majority working interest and are your primary point of contract.

Exploration Well

Industry

A well drilled in an unproven or lightly tested area to determine whether hydrocarbons are present, often representing shorter-term, high-mobilisation contracts for subcontractors with less predictable follow-on work than development drilling programmes.

Field Gathering Lines

Industry

Pipelines that collect oil, gas, or water from individual wellheads and route it to a central processing facility. Subcontractors frequently work on installation, inspection, and maintenance of these lines. Knowing the layout is essential for safe excavation and tie-in work.

Aggregates

Industry

Crushed stone, gravel, and sand used as base materials in construction and oil and gas site preparation. Subcontractors sourcing or hauling aggregates must account for material costs, transport, and site access conditions. Pricing and availability vary significantly by region and project remoteness.

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