As a civil contractor specializing in a range of specific construction services, we not only engage directly with clients to carry out excavation tasks, but also partner with general and electrical contractors on large-scale projects. In subcontracting for these types of complex projects, we work to maintain high levels of quality, safety and efficiency, providing the added value of WBENC certification and specialized expertise. Get a closer look at how we cultivate and sustain such partnerships, and what these relationships look like. 

Making the Bid

When it comes to large-scale construction projects, particularly those in the government and utility sectors, the role of subcontractors, vendors and suppliers is an integral one. In many cases, these are complex jobs requiring specialized expertise and licensing in a variety of functions that a single general or electrical contractor is not equipped to handle independently. In fact, some construction projects in this arena are handled completely by subcontractors. 

It is incumbent upon a manager or general contractor to oversee the entirety of the project, and to create a bidding process or program to engage subcontractors fit for the requirements at hand. This system should be about acquiring one or more partnerships that enable the project to be completed safely, efficiently and in accordance with both quality standards and budgetary specifications.

Merut Construction has intimate knowledge of and experience with this type of bidding process. A large portion of our excavation work centers around projects in the government and utility industries, where this system is typical and widely used. Qualifying us for many excavation-related contracts with utility companies and government projects are a number of unique certifications and business characteristics.

Diversity Status

Among Merut’s many qualifications for partnering with general and electrical contractors on construction projects requiring excavation is a distinction for which we are particularly proud: national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise Center East Certification Committee, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

This national standard of certification is a meticulous process including an in-depth review of the business and site inspection. The certification process is designed to confirm that the business is at least 51% owned, operated and controlled by a woman or women. That means one or more women must have unrestricted control of the business, a demonstrated management of day-to-day operations, and a proportionate investment of capital or expertise.

By including women-owned businesses among their suppliers, corporations and government agencies demonstrate their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier diversity programs. Most utility companies and government entities implement these types of diversity programs, allocating a certain percentage of their project spending on subcontractors or suppliers with these types of certifications. 

Commitment to Safety

Regardless of the extent of a construction project, the company or contractor should be prioritizing the health and safety of every person on the job and members of the larger community. There are serious outcomes at risk when the right safety measures are not observed to the letter. That’s why a subcontractor’s proven and documented commitment to safety is a major element in vying for partnership. 

Merut has always understood the fundamental importance of taking a safety-first approach to every job and sticking to the processes and standards set in place to protect the team, the client and anyone else in harm’s way. It’s the basis of our “work hard, safety hard” mentality, which involves conducting thorough equipment inspections, ongoing monitoring of worker safety and performance, proactive project planning and preparation, proper use of protective gear and equipment, mitigation of weather impacts and so much more. 

Placing safety above all else, Merut implements OSHA 30 and Operator Qualification training for field workers, constantly working to meet the most current levels of safety regulation and compliance. We are also a proud member of the ISNetworld database, ensuring our clients that we meet the most current levels of safety regulation and compliance. We ensure the entire team is proficiently skilled and highly trained on equipment, policies and best practices. To achieve a drug- and alcohol-free environment, we perform D.O.T. pre-employment screening and random compliance drug and alcohol testing. All of these components are critical to our efforts to partner with general and electrical contractors in the safest way possible.

Supporting the Partnership 

In applying to companies or agencies for excavation project work, Merut submits our diverse supplier certifications, as well as company information, HSE (Health, Safety, and Environmental) program details, financials and project and employee resumes. Once approved, we are in their system to receive invitations to bid on projects that fall within our scope.

We are a signatory union contractor to the IBEW Local 1319 and 126 territories, as well as the International Union of Operating Engineers 542. As such, we agree to manage our business and operations in accordance with union guidelines, and we have access to high-quality union talent. 

In partnership with general and electrical contractors, we observe crucial considerations like the integrity of existing and natural environments, public and ecological impact, regulatory constraints, human safety, and efficiency and profitability quotas. With these civil construction concerns in mind, we work to apply strategic, modern approaches that satisfy the needs of our clients and the overarching public, leveraging innovative excavation tools and methods that prioritize safety, productivity and conservation.

Merut acknowledges the years of learning and practice it takes to master the skills and operations necessary to perform excavation work safely and effectively. That’s why we only employ sufficiently qualified and trained individuals. Every project is handled with the same importance and detail, no matter the size. Our professionals strive to exceed expectations and customer satisfaction so that we can create continued partnerships for our future.

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