Trench Cave-in Protection

A worker recognised by a client or regulator as having the training, experience, and authority to identify hazards and direct safe work. Subcontractors are often required to designate a Competent Person on-site before work begins. Failing to do so can result in work stoppages or lost contracts.

A client- or prime contractor-maintained registry of pre-qualified suppliers and subcontractors eligible to bid on work. Getting onto an AVL often requires submitting safety records, insurance, and certifications in advance. Without AVL status, subcontractors are typically blocked from receiving purchase orders or contracts.

The U.S. federal standard governing excavation and trenching safety on construction sites. Subcontractors must comply with shoring, sloping, and protective system requirements before workers enter any excavation. Non-compliance can result in stop-work orders, fines, and loss of site access.

A formal dispute filed against a customs ruling, such as import duties charged on tools or equipment crossing the border. Subcontractors use protests to recover overbilled duties on temporarily imported gear. Filing deadlines are strict, so act quickly after receiving a customs decision.

Automated systems that track pollutant outputs from equipment in real time. Subcontractors operating combustion equipment may be required to install, maintain, or provide data from these systems. Non-compliance can trigger work stoppages or contract penalties.

A regulatory classification used by MSHA to flag violations that could reasonably cause serious injury or illness. S&S citations carry higher fines and greater scrutiny for subcontractors working on mine sites. Accumulating S&S violations can jeopardise a subcontractor's site access and future contract eligibility.

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