What is required under the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act for contractors?

The requirement under the Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act is that contractors must pay overtime for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. This act specifically addresses laborers and mechanics working on federal contracts, establishing the mandate that they receive time-and-a-half pay for any hours exceeding the standard 40-hour workweek.

The emphasis on overtime pay is crucial for ensuring fair compensation for individuals who work long hours on federal projects and facilitates compliance with labor standards. This helps prevent the exploitation of workers by ensuring they are adequately compensated for extra labor, hence promoting both fair labor practices and a level playing field for contractors competing for government contracts.

In the context of the other options, while paying for all hours of work is important, the act specifically highlights the overtime requirement. Limiting overtime work is not enforced by this act; rather, it stipulates pay for hours worked. Safety regulations are critical as well, but the act's primary focus is on the payment structure regarding hours worked.