Obtaining wage determinations
Contracting officers must use SAM.gov or the e98 process to obtain and accurately apply the correct prevailing wage determination for each service contract action.
Overview
FAR 22.1008-1 outlines the procedures for contracting officers to obtain prevailing wage determinations required under the Service Contract Act. The section details the use of the Wage Determinations at SAM.gov website and the Department of Labor’s e98 electronic process for requesting wage determinations. It emphasizes the importance of providing accurate and complete information, anticipating processing time, and ensuring the correct wage determination is selected and applied to each contract action. The regulation also specifies the steps contracting officers must take to identify the appropriate classes of service employees, the locality of performance, and applicable wage rates. If uncertainties arise, contracting officers are encouraged to consult their agency labor advisor for guidance.
Key Rules
- Use of Wage Determinations at SAM.gov and e98 Process
- Contracting officers should use the SAM.gov website to obtain wage determinations or the e98 process if the required determination is not available online.
- Accurate and Complete Information
- All information submitted via the e98 process must be accurate and complete, especially the email address.
- Anticipate Processing Time
- Contracting officers must allow sufficient time to gather information and, if necessary, contact the Department of Labor.
- Responsibility for Wage Determination Selection
- The contracting agency is responsible for the wage determination selected, even when using automated tools or the e98 process.
- Steps to Obtain Wage Determination
- Officers must determine employee classes, locality, applicability of 41 U.S.C. 6707(c), and relevant wage rates.
- Seek Guidance When Needed
- Officers should consult the agency labor advisor if questions arise.
Responsibilities
- Contracting Officers: Must obtain and apply the correct wage determination, provide accurate information, and consult advisors as needed.
- Contractors: Must comply with the wage determination included in the contract.
- Agencies: Responsible for oversight and ensuring correct wage determinations are used.
Practical Implications
- Ensures compliance with wage standards for service contracts.
- Impacts contract preparation timelines and accuracy of contract terms.
- Common issues include delays due to incomplete information or selection of incorrect wage determinations.