TSK Inc.  
TSK Inc.

Keyword

Glossary of Terms

This section summarizes the basic terms frequently used at TSK. Let’s take a look at what keywords are included.

Terms Starting with “A”

Construction Number (Aiban)

This refers to the attendance of craftsmen from trades other than those performing the actual construction work during a project.

Scaffolding (Ashiba)

A temporary walkway constructed for working at heights. There are external and internal scaffolds, including types like bracket scaffolds, single-pipe (scaffolding), and foot scaffolds.

Anchor Bolt (Anka-boruto)

A steel bolt, approximately 15 mm in diameter and 550 mm in length, that connects the foundation to the base. The tip is shaped like a U or L hook, preventing it from being pulled out of the concrete foundation. It should be embedded at least 250 mm into the foundation and protrude 120-150 mm above it, placed every 2-3 meters apart.

Safety Shoes (Anzen-gutsu)

Shoes designed to protect the feet of workers in potentially hazardous environments, such as construction sites, factories handling heavy machinery, or mining and construction industries. Construction sites typically require boots that cover the ankles, while sneakers may not be permitted.

Safety Harness (Anzen-tai)

A belt with a lifeline used for work at heights. It consists of a rope as a lifeline, a hook for securing the body to a support structure, and a belt to support the body in case of a fall.

Safety First (Anzen Daiichi)

In 1906, Elbert Henry Gary, the president of U.S. Steel, revised the company’s policy from “Production First, Quality Second, Safety Third” to “Safety First, Quality Second, Production Third.” As a result, workplace accidents decreased, product quality and productivity improved, and this philosophy spread throughout America. In Japan, in 1912, it was first translated as “Safety First” by Zenichi Otagawa and implemented at the Ashio Copper Mine.

Interlocking (Intārokkingu)

Also known as interlocking blocks, these are external finishing materials laid on the subgrade or base. They allow rainwater to permeate into the base, reducing puddles and making walking easier. Since the blocks interlock, they are less likely to collapse under vehicle loads. It is placed on a prepared subgrade and must not be made of concrete, as uneven ground may appear due to changes over time.

ABS (E-bī-esu)

A type of material used for protective helmets. It is inexpensive and has electrical insulation properties but is weak against heat and chemicals and has slightly inferior weather resistance. Its lifespan is typically within 3 years.

FRP Products (Efu-āru-pī-seihin)

A type of material used for protective helmets, consisting of glass fibers infused with unsaturated polyester resin to enhance strength. It has excellent heat resistance and weather resistance, with an average lifespan of about 5 years. However, it cannot be used for electrical applications, and rivets are necessary due to its fixed nature, which are disadvantages.

MSDS (SDS) (E-mu-esu-dī-esu (E-su-dī-esu))

Safety data and hazard warnings.

MMD (E-mu-emu-dī)

Meaning “not condoned, not overlooked, not compromised.”

Terms Starting with “K”

KYT (Kē-waitī)

Hazard prediction training. This involves identifying potential hazards expected during on-site work and considering safety measures, similar to the KYK safety measures.

Debris Removal (Garadashi)

This refers to the process of disposing of waste materials and garbage generated during construction. Since construction debris can be heavy, this task may require significant physical effort. It is relatively straightforward for beginners, making it a good starting point for learning.

Formwork (Katawaku)

A flow-stopping board used for pouring concrete. After the concrete has hardened, it is removed, hence it is also referred to as temporary formwork.

Simple Paving (Kanihosō)

A basic type of paving that involves compressing the ground and laying crushed stone and asphalt mixtures on the surface without constructing a subbase or subgrade.

Goo-Paa Movement (Gūpā Undō)

A signal used by workers in hazardous areas around heavy machinery. “Goo” means OK, and “Paa” means stop. Workers repeat “Gū yoshi” and “Pā yoshi” while confirming the signal during work.

Clamp (Kurampu)

A fitting used to secure pipes and scaffolding. There are fixed perpendicular clamps and freely movable swivel clamps.

KYK (Kē-wai-kē)

An acronym for hazard prediction training. Similar to KYT, it involves identifying expected hazards in the workplace and considering safety measures.

On-site KY (Genchi Kēwai)

This refers to the hazard prediction conducted at the worksite, where potential risks are identified, confirmed, and execution goals are set before starting work.

Terms Starting with “S”

Formwork Plywood (Konpane)

A material used for concrete formwork, abbreviated from “Concrete Panel.” It is typically sized 900×1800 mm, which is smaller than standard plywood (909×1818 mm), and is commonly used due to its low cost. Typically, it can be reused 2-3 times. Surfaces that are smoothed are known as “pane coat” and used for exposed finishes.

333 Movement (Sansansan Undō)

A balance check for suspended loads performed with a crane or at ground level. The load is lifted 30 cm off the ground and held in a stationary position 3 meters away for 3 seconds to check stability.

Joint Venture (JV)

This refers to the formation of a partnership among several contracting companies to undertake a single project, known as a joint venture.

Seven-tenths, Eight-tenths (Shichibu, Hachibu)

Refers to pants that are approximately 70-80% wider. These pants are specifically designed for workers in construction trades, particularly for the labor-intensive tasks of squatting and standing.

Natural Ground (Jiyama)

This refers to the untouched earth that appears after removing the topsoil, representing the natural state of the ground without any earthwork like embankments.

Honeycomb (Janka)

This term describes parts of concrete that have not fully settled and appear rough or uneven, typically larger than 50 cm on a side. If reinforcing bars are visible, it must be repaired. Honeycombing is often caused by inadequate compaction or insufficient vibration during concrete placement.

Joint (Joint)

A fitting used to connect sections of pipe together.

Shovel (Sukoppu)

Generally, a shovel consists of a handle and a wide spoon-like blade attached to its end. When in use, it is held with both hands near the base of the handle. There are different types, including square shovels for scooping and spade shovels for digging.

Concrete Curing (Sutekon)

This refers to leveling the ground to allow for marking before laying down a thin layer of concrete, about 3 cm thick.

Slab (Surabu)

A flat, plate-like structure made of reinforced concrete that supports loads.

Terms Starting with “T”

Tamper (Tataki-bō)

A tool used to vibrate formwork from underneath during concrete placement, ensuring that the concrete flows into all sections. Insufficient tampering may lead to uneven curing and finishing.

Formwork (Tatewaku)

A frame in the shape of a torii (Japanese gate) for scaffolding. Standard spans include 900, 1200, 1500, and 1800 mm.

Load Hook (Tamakake)

This refers to the work of safely attaching and detaching loads from cranes (such as rough terrain cranes), which includes using load hook ropes known as load hook ropes.

Wearing Body (Chakusōtai)

This refers to the suspension system within a hard hat, including a hammock, headband, and chin strap. It helps secure the helmet on the head and absorbs shock during impact.

TBM (Tī-Bī-Emu)

An acronym for Toolbox Meeting. This involves exchanging opinions about the risks associated with work at the site before commencing tasks.

Terms Starting with “N”

Ready-Mixed Concrete (Nama-Konkuriito)

This refers to concrete that is mixed at a central plant and delivered to the job site. It is made with specific ratios of cement, sand, gravel, and water, ensuring consistent quality.

Transport (Nōshū)

This involves moving construction materials and equipment to the job site. It is essential for organizing and managing logistics effectively.

Rough Work (Naka)

This refers to tasks that are performed without detailed planning or specifications, typically characterized by a lack of precision.

Finished Surface (Naka)

This term refers to the level of finishing applied to a surface after completing concrete work or other tasks.

Installation of Rebars (Naiha)

This refers to the process of placing reinforcing bars within formwork before pouring concrete, which is critical for ensuring structural integrity.

Terms Starting with “H”

Vibration (Baibu)

This refers to the process of using a mechanical tool to vibrate concrete and facilitate proper settlement, thereby increasing strength and durability.

Chipping (Hatsuri)

This term describes the act of breaking away parts of a surface using tools to achieve a smoother or more finished look.

Toolbox (Hōbō)

A case used for storing tools and equipment. It is crucial for maintaining organization on construction sites.

Mixing (Henkō)

This refers to the process of combining various materials (such as cement, sand, and gravel) in a specific ratio to produce concrete or mortar.

Box Level (Hako)

A tool used to measure and check the level of surfaces during construction, ensuring accurate alignment and evenness.