Understanding the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act: Key Insights

Definition & Meaning

The Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (CWHSSA) is a federal law that governs labor practices on certain federal contracts. It applies to federal service contracts and federally assisted construction contracts exceeding $100,000. The Act mandates that contractors and subcontractors must pay laborers and mechanics one and one-half times their regular pay rate for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Additionally, it establishes safety standards to ensure that working conditions on federal projects are not unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A contractor working on a federal highway project must pay workers overtime for any hours they work beyond 40 in a week, ensuring they receive one and one-half times their regular pay rate.

Example 2: A subcontractor on a federally funded building project discovers that their worksite lacks proper safety measures. They must address these issues to comply with CWHSSA requirements. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) A federal law that sets minimum wage, overtime pay, and youth employment standards for workers in both the private and public sectors.
Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) A federal law aimed at ensuring workplace safety and health standards across various industries, including construction.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are a contractor or subcontractor working on a federal project, ensure you understand your obligations under the CWHSSA. This includes properly calculating overtime pay and maintaining safe working conditions. Consider using legal templates from US Legal Forms to help manage compliance. If your situation is complex, consulting with a legal professional may be necessary.

Quick facts

  • Applicable Contracts: Federal contracts over $100,000
  • Overtime Rate: One and one-half times the basic rate
  • Enforcement Agency: Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
  • Safety Standards: Mandatory for all covered projects

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It applies to federal service contracts and federally assisted construction contracts that exceed $100,000.