Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act

The Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (CWHSSA) is a federal law that regulates contracting agencies that work with the federal government. The law has been in effect since 1962 and is designed to protect workers from unsafe working conditions and to ensure they receive fair compensation for their work.

The CWHSSA applies to all contracts with the federal government that exceed $100,000 and require more than 30 days of work. This law requires contractors to follow certain safety standards and to comply with regulations designed to prevent workplace accidents and injuries. The law also requires that workers on federal contracts receive overtime pay, which is calculated at one and one-half times their regular hourly rate.

Moreover, the CWHSSA mandates that contractors provide their employees with a safe and healthy work environment and comply with all applicable regulations. Contractors must also ensure that workers are provided with appropriate protective equipment and receive training on their proper use.

The act also requires contractors to keep accurate records of the hours worked by their employees on federal contracts. This is to ensure that workers are compensated correctly for their work and are not being exploited by employers who try to underpay them or deny them overtime pay.

If an employer is found to have violated the CWHSSA, penalties can be imposed, including fines, suspension or termination of the government contract, and debarment from future government contracts.

In conclusion, the CWHSSA is an essential law that ensures the safety and fair compensation of workers on federal government contracts. Employers must comply with regulations and standards to create a safe and healthy working environment for their employees. This law helps prevent workplace accidents and ensures that workers receive appropriate compensation for their work.