What is the DAS 140 Form?

Definition of DAS 140

The DAS 140 form, also known as the Public Works Contract Award Information form, serves as a vital document for contractors engaged in public works projects in California. This form is essentially a notification to the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) that a contractor intends to undertake a project that will require apprenticeship training. The DAS 140 communicates key information about the awarded contract, including its value and the specific trades that will be utilized, to ensure compliance with state apprenticeship laws.

Importance for Public Works Projects

The DAS 140 is of paramount importance for various reasons. Firstly, it ensures that local unions and apprenticeship programs are informed about new public works projects, allowing them to mobilize the necessary workforce. Secondly, this form is crucial for maintaining compliance with the California Labor Code, which mandates the inclusion of apprentices in certain public work contracts. By submitting a DAS 140, contractors affirm their commitment to workforce development and fair labor practices. Failure to submit this form can result in penalties, including financial repercussions and the potential withholding of contract payments.

Key Components of the DAS 140

The DAS 140 form consists of several essential components that need to be accurately filled out by the contractor. These include:

• Contractor Information: Name, address, and contact information of the contractor.
• Project Details: A brief description of the project, including its location and anticipated start date.
• Financial Information: Total contract value, which must be $30,000 or more for the DAS 140 requirement to apply.
• Trade Information: List of crafts or trades involved in the project.
• Apprenticeship Program Details: Information about the apprenticeship programs that will supply apprentices for the project.

Who Needs to Submit the DAS 140?

Eligibility for Submitting Forms

Understanding who is required to submit the DAS 140 is critical for compliance. Any contractor who has been awarded a public works project that meets the financial threshold (i.e., projects valued at $30,000 or greater) must submit this form. Additionally, this obligation falls on contractors who are either:

• Approved by a recognized apprenticeship program to train apprentices; or
• Unapproved, in which case they must submit the DAS 140 to apprenticeship committees that can provide apprentices for the site.

Roles of Contractors and Apprenticeship Committees

Contractors play a crucial role in the submission process, acting as the primary parties responsible for filing the DAS 140 with the appropriate authorities. Apprenticeship committees, on the other hand, serve as the receiving entities that will utilize the information to match available apprentices with the needs of the project. Contractors need to have an understanding of which committees they should send their DAS 140 form to based on the crafts listed within their project details.

Common Scenarios Requiring Submission

There are several common scenarios that necessitate the completion and submission of a DAS 140 form:

• When a contractor is awarded a new public works project valued at $30,000 or more.
• If a contractor plans to utilize apprentices from various trades, notifying multiple apprenticeship committees may also be required.
• When initializing a project involving the construction, alteration, or repair of public buildings or public works.

Step-by-Step Guide to Completing DAS 140

Gathering Required Information

Before filling out the DAS 140 form, contractors need to gather all necessary information to ensure accuracy. This should include:

• Contract details, including value and project scope.
• Information about the specific trades or crafts involved in the project.
• Details about the apprenticeship program or committee to which the submission will be sent.

Filling Out the Form Accurately

Completing the DAS 140 form requires careful attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Begin by filling out the contractor’s information, ensuring all contact details are current.
2. Next, accurately describe the project, including its physical location and what the public works entails.
3. Detail the total contract value; remember that the threshold for DAS 140 submission is $30,000.
4. List the relevant trades that will be utilized and ensure to double-check for typos and errors.
5. Finally, review all parts of the form before submission—small mistakes can lead to significant delays.

Submitting to Appropriate Authorities

Once the DAS 140 form is completed, it must be submitted to the appropriate apprenticeship committees or directly to the DAS. If a contractor is approved to train apprentices, the completed form should be sent to their apprenticeship committee. Conversely, if they are not approved, they will need to send it to all committees that may provide apprentices for the project. This ensures compliance and facilitates the contract’s operational workflow.

Consequences of Non-Compliance with DAS 140

Financial Penalties and Withholding of Payments

Failure to submit the DAS 140 can have serious financial implications. Public agencies possess the authority to withhold contract payments until the contractor demonstrates compliance with apprenticeship requirements. This withholding can jeopardize cash flow for contractors, making timely submission critical for sustaining operations and maintaining good relationships with stakeholders.

Impact on Future Contracts

Beyond immediate financial penalties, non-compliance with the DAS 140 can tarnish a contractor’s reputation. Future bidding opportunities may be severely compromised if contractors develop a history of failing to submit necessary documentation. Public agencies often seek reputable contractors who embody compliance and integrity, underscoring the need for diligent adherence to regulations.

Legal Repercussions for Contractors

In severe instances, failure to comply with DAS 140 requirements could escalate to legal repercussions. Contractors may face lawsuits, potential sanctions, and other legal challenges if found in violation of apprenticeship laws. The ramifications not only affect the financial standing of a company but could also lead to loss of licenses or public works eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about DAS 140

What to Do If You Make a Mistake?

If a contractor makes an error on the DAS 140 form, it is crucial to correct it as soon as possible. Generally, contractors can submit a revised DAS 140, clearly indicating that it is a correction. Communication with the relevant apprenticeship committees is vital to ensure all parties are informed of the changes and to avoid misunderstandings.

How to Track Submissions and Confirm Receipt

Tracking DAS 140 submissions can sometimes be challenging, but there are best practices to follow. Contractors should maintain a copy of the submitted form and include tracking mechanisms when sending the form, like certified mail or email acknowledgment requests. Keeping clear records and confirming receipt with apprenticeship committees can prevent future complications.

Resources for Further Guidance

For contractors seeking additional guidance regarding the DAS 140 form and compliance regulations, resources are widely available. The California Division of Apprenticeship Standards offers comprehensive and detailed guides on their website, where contractors can also access the most recent forms. It is also advisable to consult with legal counsel or compliance specialists to navigate more complex contract requirements effectively.