Determining the prevailing wage rate for a specific project involves several steps. The process typically involves government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Labor or state labor departments, and depends on the project’s location and type. Here’s how you can find and determine the prevailing wage rate:
Steps to Determine Prevailing Wage Rate
- Identify Project Location and Type:
- First, identify the geographic area and type of work involved in your project. Prevailing wages are determined based on local conditions and specific occupations.
- Consult Government Resources:
- National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC): For federal projects or those involving foreign workers, you may need to submit a request to the NPWC for a prevailing wage determination. This can be done using Form ETA-9141 via the FLAG system.
- Online Wage Library or Wage Determination Online (WDOL): For general wage determinations, you can use the DOL’s WDOL website or the Online Wage Library.
- Obtain Local Wage Data:
- If more specific data is required, contact local labor departments for surveys or consult collective bargaining agreements. For example, Missouri releases an Annual Wage Order by July 1 each year, detailing prevailing wage rates by county and occupation.
- Surveys and Calculations:
- Prevailing wage rates are often calculated from surveys of local employers. The rates are determined as either the majority wage (if more than half of workers are paid at that rate), an average wage, or a county average if no specific data is available.
- Review Published Wage Rates:
- Prevailing wage rates are typically published by state labor departments at regular intervals, such as in August and February. Ensure you have the latest rates for your project’s area.
Additional Tips
- Check Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with local prevailing wage laws and any specific requirements for your project, such as the Davis-Bacon Act for federal construction projects.
- Adjust Project Budgets: Prevailing wage rates can be higher than minimum wages, affecting project costs. Ensure you adjust your budget accordingly.
- Consult with Experts: If unsure about any aspect of prevailing wage determination, consider consulting with labor attorneys or experts familiar with local wage laws.
By following these steps, you can accurately determine the prevailing wage rate for your specific project.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/how-do-i-determine-the-prevailing-wage-rate-for-a-specific-project/
