Audit of the Department of Labor Standards - Division of Apprentice Standards

This is a Massachusetts State Auditor performance audit of the Department of Labor Standards’ Division of Apprentice Standards, covering July 1, 2015 through December 31, 2017.

“This report details the audit objectives, scope, methodology, findings, and recommendations for the audit period, July 1, 2015 through December 31, 2017.”

Auditors checked whether DAS was properly overseeing registered apprenticeship programs and whether apprentice agreements included required terms and information.

“Below is a list of our audit objectives, indicating each question we intended our audit to answer, the conclusion we reached regarding each objective, and where each objective is discussed in the audit findings.”

If DAS does not check apprenticeship programs, apprentices may not get the training they need to succeed in their jobs.

“As a result, there is inadequate assurance that people participating in apprentice programs are receiving the training they need in order to compete successfully for employment in their fields of study.”

For an ordinary worker or apprentice, this matters because the state is supposed to make sure apprenticeship programs provide proper training, follow equal-opportunity rules, and give apprentices clear agreements about wages, hours, rights, and complaint options.

“If apprentices are not fully informed of all program requirements and of their right to obtain proper training, they might not receive the full benefits and training to which they are entitled.”

The audit’s bottom line is that DAS did not meet several oversight responsibilities during the audit period.

“DAS did not properly administer apprentice agreements.”

The report recommended that DAS perform required reviews, improve policies and procedures, make sure staff have the right forms and training, and update apprentice agreements. DAS said it was taking steps to address these issues.

“DAS will review, update, and/or develop and implement written policies regarding all aspects of Quality Assurance Assessments by 12/31/2019.”

DAS means the Division of Apprentice Standards. A QAA is a quality check of an apprenticeship program. AAP means affirmative action program, and EEO means equal employment opportunity.

“DAS employs seven staff members to administer the state’s apprentice program: a deputy director, two project coordinators, two compliance officers, one office support specialist, and one administrative assistant.”