CSLB Law & Business ExamPublic WorksHard
A mechanical subcontractor employs journeyman workers on a public works HVAC installation and wants to also use apprentices. Under California apprenticeship requirements for public works, what is the standard ratio of apprentice hours to journeyman hours that may generally be used?
- A1 apprentice hour for every 10 journeyman hours worked
- B1 apprentice hour for every 5 journeyman hours worked
- C1 apprentice hour for every 2 journeyman hours worked
- DThere is no ratio limit as long as apprentices are registered
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 1 apprentice hour for every 5 journeyman hours worked
California apprenticeship standards generally require a ratio of one hour of apprentice work for every five hours worked by journeymen in the applicable craft on public works projects. Contractors employing apprentices must also contribute to an approved apprenticeship program.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 1:10 would allow too many journeyman hours per apprentice compared to the actual standard.
- C. 1:2 is a tighter ratio than what is generally required under apprenticeship standards.
- D. Ratios are regulated; contractors cannot use apprentices without limit.
Apprentice-to-Journeyman Ratio
Public works apprenticeship standards require a set ratio (generally 1:5) of apprentice hours to journeyman hours in the same craft.
- Governed by Labor Code §1777.5
- Contractors must contribute to apprenticeship training funds
- Ratios and requirements can vary slightly by approved apprenticeship program
Memory trick: Five journeymen train one apprentice.