5 Things a Superintendent Can Do Today to Strengthen Davis-Bacon Compliance
Superintendents are already managing schedules, materials, and job site safety. While they don’t need to handle every detail of Davis-Bacon compliance, they can take simple steps while they walk the job site to help reduce risk and keep the project in compliance.
Taking just 15 minutes a day to check these five areas can go a long way in keeping the project on track and in compliance:
1. Verify That Only Approved Subcontractors Are on Site
If an unknown or lower-tier subcontractor is working, notify the project manager or compliance team to confirm if they are properly documented.
2. Conduct a Quick Headcount to Compare Against Subcontractor Reported Headcounts
Twice a week, walk the site and note the number of workers present per trade. This helps ensure subcontractors are reporting the correct number of workers on certified payrolls.
3. Ask Foremen to Keep Good Timesheets for the Work They Perform
Train foremen and assistant superintendents to avoid misclassifying workers on their timesheets. This reduces reporting errors back at the office.
4. Confirm That Subcontractors Are Submitting Payroll Reports
Instead of chasing down payroll reports, a superintendent can take a simple step to keep subcontractors accountable. At the weekly subcontractor meeting, ask: “Has your company submitted certified payroll for this week?”
If a subcontractor hasn’t submitted, remind them that no payroll = no payment. That usually gets some attention!
5. Plan Ahead for Worker Interviews
- Superintendents don’t need to conduct interviews, but they can help coordinate and make them run smoothly when compliance officers visit the site.
- Be sure required posters and wage decision are visible and legible. Replace worn and torn postings.
- Remind workers that the interviews verify their correct pay and classification.
- Ensure interviews are conducted in a quiet space without pressure from supervisors.
The superintendent doesn’t need to manage compliance alone, but they do need to be aware of key risks. By taking small steps—like verifying headcounts, confirming subcontractors, and training field leaders—the superintendent can help prevent compliance violations before they become major problems.
