For contractors working on public works projects in California, understanding the distinction between DAS 140 and DAS 142 is essential. Both forms play critical roles in apprenticeship compliance but serve different purposes in the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS) process. Knowing how and when to use Das 140 and DAS 142 helps contractors meet legal obligations and maintain smooth project operations.

What Is DAS 140?

DAS 140 is the “Notice of Public Works Contract Award” form. It must be filed by contractors within five days of being awarded a public works contract. The purpose of DAS 140 is to notify apprenticeship programs that a contract has been awarded, allowing these programs to send apprentices to the job site. DAS 140 initiates the compliance process by alerting the Division of Apprenticeship Standards and relevant apprenticeship committees.

What Is DAS 142?

DAS 142, on the other hand, is the “Contract Completion Report.” Contractors must file DAS 142 within 30 days after completing a public works project. This form reports the actual hours worked by apprentices and journey-level workers on the project. DAS 142 is used to verify compliance with apprenticeship standards and to track the training hours accrued during the contract.

Key Differences Between DAS 140 and DAS 142

AspectDAS 140DAS 142PurposeNotify contract awardReport contract completion and hoursSubmission DeadlineWithin 5 days of contract awardWithin 30 days after project completionMain FunctionNotify apprenticeship programsVerify apprenticeship complianceFiled WithApprenticeship committees per countyDivision of Apprenticeship StandardsImpactInitiates apprenticeship participationConfirms fulfillment of training requirements

Why Both Forms Are Necessary

DAS 140 and DAS 142 work together to ensure apprenticeship compliance on public works projects. DAS 140 informs the apprenticeship programs about upcoming work, allowing apprentices to be dispatched. DAS 142 completes the process by documenting the actual apprentice hours worked, ensuring contractors meet their training obligations. Filing both forms accurately and on time protects contractors from penalties and supports workforce development.

How to Manage Filing DAS 140 and DAS 142

Contractors should establish a system to track contract awards and project completions to meet the deadlines for both DAS 140 and DAS 142. Typically, DAS 140 is handled early in the project lifecycle, while DAS 142 comes into play after the job is done. Keeping detailed records of apprentice hours throughout the project will make completing DAS 142 easier and more accurate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistakes such as missing deadlines, filing incomplete forms, or confusing DAS 140 with DAS 142 can lead to compliance violations. Contractors must treat DAS 140 and DAS 142 as separate, equally important filings. Proper training and use of available resources, like those offered by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC), can reduce errors.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between DAS 140 and DAS 142 is fundamental for California contractors engaged in public works. While DAS 140 notifies apprenticeship programs of a contract award, DAS 142 reports on the completion and training hours. Together, these forms ensure contractors fulfill apprenticeship obligations, avoid penalties, and contribute to a skilled workforce. Proper management of both DAS 140 and DAS 142 filings is a cornerstone of public works compliance.