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Prevailing Wage Material Tester FAQ
The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) provided below highlight topics and specific questions that are often asked of the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL). The information provided in the FAQs is intended to enhance public access and understanding of IDOL laws, regulations and compliance information.
The FAQs should not be considered a substitute for the appropriate official documents (i.e. statute and/or administrative rules.) Individuals are urged to consult legal counsel of their choice. Court decisions may affect the interpretation and constitutionality of statutes. The Department cannot offer individuals legal advice or offer advisory opinions. If you need a legal opinion, we suggest you consult your own legal counsel. These FAQs are not to be considered complete and do not relieve employers from complying with applicable IDOL laws and regulations.
- 1. Is the classification of Material Worker I and Material Worker II new classifications under the Prevailing Wage Act (PWA)?
- 2.Is the classification of Material Tester/Inspector I and Material Tester/Inspector II that was added to the counties of Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Henry, Mercer, Livingston, Whiteside, Rock Island, Bureau, Putnam and LaSalle encompass the same job duties as the classifications entitled Material Tester I and Material Tester II that already existed?
- 3. Is it necessary that an individual performing material tester work on a PWA project join a union?
- 4. If an individual is working on a project that is not subject to the PWA must the wage rates and benefits for material testers be paid?
1. Is the classification of Material Worker I and Material Worker II new classifications under the Prevailing Wage Act (PWA)?
No, the classifications of Material Worker I and Material Worker II already existed in 15 counties of the State.
2.Is the classification of Material Tester/Inspector I and Material Tester/Inspector II that was added to the counties of Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Henry, Mercer, Livingston, Whiteside, Rock Island, Bureau, Putnam and LaSalle encompass the same job duties as the classifications entitled Material Tester I and Material Tester II that already existed?
Yes, notwithstanding the difference in the classification title, the classification entitled Material Tester I involves the same job duties as the classification entitled Material Tester/Inspector I. Likewise, the classification entitled Material Tester II involves the same job duties as the classification entitled Material Tester/Inspector II.
3. Is it necessary that an individual performing material tester work on a PWA project join a union?
No, an individual working on a PWA project does not need to join a union, but while working on a project subject to the PWA, that individual must be paid the wage rates and benefits for the classifications of material worker as set forth in the Department’s prevailing wage schedules which are located on the Department’s website.
4. If an individual is working on a project that is not subject to the PWA must the wage rates and benefits for material testers be paid?
No. If the project is not subject to the PWA, then the wage rates and benefits for the classification of material worker would not apply.