Stop-Work Order Issued to Robbinsville Contractor for Violations at Middlesex Elementary School

New Jersey Department of Labor's Division of Wage and Hour halts construction at John P. Faber School in Dunellen, citing failure to register as a public works contractor.

On August 15, 2023, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOL) issued a stop-work order to Custom Siding LLC of Robbinsville for failing to register as a public works contractor during construction of a classroom addition at John P. Faber School in Dunellen.

Investigators from NJDOL's Division of Wage and Hour and Contract Compliance discovered the violation while conducting a routine site inspection. This inspection was part of a broader initiative aimed at overseeing public works projects at schools.

The stop-work order was issued to Custom Siding LLC, a subcontractor based in Robbinsville, N.J. The violation was identified as a failure to register as a public works contractor, which is mandatory under state laws and regulations.

The order was issued on August 15, 2023, as part of NJDOL's continuous efforts to ensure compliance with labor laws. The violation occurred at John P. Faber School in Dunellen, N.J., where a classroom addition project was underway.

The order was issued to protect workers and maintain compliance with state regulations. NJDOL has previously issued 140 stop-work orders since the expansion of these powers in July 2019.

An employer may appeal a stop-work order. In this case, NJDOL has seven days to schedule a hearing. Civil penalties of $5,000 per day can be assessed against an employer for violations, and the order may be lifted when back wages and penalties are paid, and related issues are resolved.

In coordination with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and the Department of Education, NJDOL is also reminding local governments and boards of their obligations under the New Jersey Prevailing Wage Act. They maintain a record of registered public works contractors to avoid unnecessary delays and extra costs.

Furthermore, registered public works contractors must participate in Registered Apprenticeship programs, ensuring that public funds contribute to the training of New Jersey workers in the construction sector.

This stop-work order is part of NJDOL's ongoing commitment to enforce state labor laws and protect workers. It emphasizes the necessity of proper registration and compliance, fostering a fair and lawful working environment. For more information on worker benefits and protections, residents are directed to visit myworkrights.nj.gov.