Examination Category

(Civil Engineering)

Textbook for
the Practical Examination

Ver.20220908
Chapter 5: Knowledge of Tools, Machines, Materials, and Measuring Instruments Used on

Construction Sites

5.1 Tools, Machines, Materials, and Measuring Instruments Specific to Job Categories . 108

5.1.1 Construction Machines .................................................................................... 108

5.1.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method ............................................................... 111

5.1.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work ....................................................................... 113

5.1.4 Well Drilling Work ........................................................................................... 115

5.1.5 Wellpointing Work ........................................................................................... 115

5.1.6 Paving Work ..................................................................................................... 116

5.1.7 Piling Work ...................................................................................................... 116

5.1.8 Scaffolding Work ............................................................................................. 117

5.1.9 Steel Framing Work ......................................................................................... 121

5.1.10 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work) ...................................................... 122

5.1.11 Rebar Splicing Work ...................................................................................... 124

5.1.12 Welding Work ................................................................................................ 125

5.1.13 Formwork Carpentry ...................................................................................... 127

5.1.14 Concrete Pumping Work ................................................................................ 129

5.1.15 Painting Work ................................................................................................ 131

5.1.16 Landscaping Work ......................................................................................... 134

5.2 Common Tools, Machines, Materials, and Measuring Instruments ............................ 136

5.2.1 Power Tools...................................................................................................... 136

5.2.2 Digging/Leveling/Compacting......................................................................... 139

5.2.3 Layout Marking/Marking Tools ....................................................................... 140

5.2.4 Measuring/Inspecting ....................................................................................... 141

5.2.5 Cutting/Bending/Breaking ............................................................................... 144

5.2.6 Tapping/Pulling ................................................................................................ 145

5.2.7 Filing/Polishing/Boring.................................................................................... 146

5.2.8 Tightening/Fixing............................................................................................. 146

 5.2.9 Kneading/Mixing ............................................................................................. 148

5.2.10 Curing/Prepping ............................................................................................. 149

5.2.11 Scrubbing ....................................................................................................... 149

5.2.12 Carrying Objects ............................................................................................ 150

5.2.13 Hanging/Lifting/Pulling ................................................................................. 151

5.2.14 Work Platforms/Ladders ................................................................................ 152

5.2.15 Cleaning ......................................................................................................... 153

Chapter 6: Knowledge on Construction Site Work

6.1 Matters Common to Construction Sites ...................................................................... 155

6.1.1 Characteristics of Construction Work .............................................................. 155

6.1.2 Construction Plan ............................................................................................. 156

6.1.3 Construction Management ............................................................................... 156

6.1.4 Pre-Construction Preparations ......................................................................... 157

6.1.5 Layout Marking (Marking Out) ....................................................................... 159

6.2 Construction Knowledge of Each Specialty Work ...................................................... 160

6.2.1 Earthwork......................................................................................................... 160

6.2.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method ............................................................... 162

6.2.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work ....................................................................... 163

6.2.4 Well Drilling Work ........................................................................................... 166

6.2.5 Wellpointing Work ........................................................................................... 168

6.2.6 Paving Work ..................................................................................................... 169

6.2.7 Mechanical Earthwork ..................................................................................... 170

6.2.8 Piling Work ...................................................................................................... 171

6.2.9 Scaffolding Work ............................................................................................. 173

6.2.10 Steel Framing Work ....................................................................................... 174

6.2.11 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work)....................................................... 176

6.2.12 Rebar Splicing Work ...................................................................................... 179

 6.2.13 Welding Work ................................................................................................ 181

6.2.14 Formwork Carpentry ...................................................................................... 181

6.2.15 Concrete Pumping Work ................................................................................ 183

6.2.16 Painting Work ................................................................................................ 184

6.2.17 Landscaping Work ......................................................................................... 185

6.2.18 Demolition Work............................................................................................ 186

Chapter 7: Safety during Construction Work

7.1 Fatalities in Construction Work .................................................................................. 189

7 .1 .1 Numbers of Fatalities in Construction ........................................................... 190

7.1.2 Types of Fatal Accidents .................................................................................. 191

7.1.3 Work with A High Number of Fatalities .......................................................... 193

7.2 Safety Activities at Construction Sites ........................................................................ 196

7.2.1 Cycle of Safety in Construction ....................................................................... 196

7.2.2 Safety and Health Education for Newcomers .................................................. 198

7.2.3 Newcomer Education ....................................................................................... 199

7.2.4 Safety Gear for Work ....................................................................................... 200

7.2.5 Prevention of Heat Strokes .............................................................................. 202

7.2.6 Marks Calling Attention to Work Safety .......................................................... 202

7.2.7 Understanding Human Error ............................................................................ 203

Chapter 5: Knowledge of Tools, Machines, Materials, and Measuring
Instruments Used on Construction Sites

5.1 Tools, machines, materials, and measuring instruments specific to job categories

5.1.1 Construction Machines

[Yuatsu shovel] (hydraulic excavator (backhoe)) A machine that Hydraulic excavator

performs digging and loading work using the boom, arm, and bucket,

which are operated by hydraulic cylinders, and by rotating the upper

unit. By changing attachments, it can be used in various ways as a

breaker, a ripper, a crusher, etc.

[Power shovel] A type of hydraulic excavators. A bucket is attached to the end of the arm. The bucket

is mounted with the opening upward. Suitable for excavating at a level higher than the machine's

position.

[Bulldozer] A machine consisting of a crawler (a metal or rubber belt)

type traveling unit equipped with a movable blade (dozer), mainly used

for excavation and transportation. There is also a machine called

Bulldozer
rippable (bulldozer ripper) with a ripper that rakes up earth and rock.

[Ten’atsuki] (compactor) A machine that compacts by weight. There Compactor

are several types, depending on the material and shape of rollers and

their combination.

[Road roller] A compactor with steel rollers. It is used to compact

subgrade layers and aggregate base layers in pavement construction.

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[Tire roller] A compactor with rubber rollers. It is suitable for ordinary

soil that is easy to compact and for crushed stones for aggregate base

layers of pavements. It is also used for machine-compacting asphalt

Tire roller
mixtures.

[Shindo roller] (vibratory roller) A compactor with vibrating steel

rollers. The vibration is normally vertical, but those that vibrate

horizontally are specifically called shindo roller (vibratory rollers).

Vibratory roller
Vibratory rollers have a strong compacting effect, even when they are

small in size.

[Scraper] A machine that can single-handedly perform a series of

operations such as digging, loading, transporting, and spreading soil.

The cutting edge at the bottom of the bowl, which fills with soil as it

travels, cuts the soil and places the excavated soil into the bowl. Upon
Scraper
arrival at the embankment, the apron is opened, the soil is discharged,

and the machine spreads it to a thin layer.

[Motor scraper] Self-propelled scraper. It cuts and levels the ground by scraping soil and sand using

the blade between the front and rear wheels, and sends the soil to a container above the blade.

[Motor grader] A machine used to flatten and finish the ground surface or aggregate base layer

materials such as paving stones. A scarifier and a blade Motor grader

are located between the front and rear tires. The ground

is torn up with a scarifier and the ground surface is

leveled and compacted with a blade.

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[Tractor shovel] (tractor excavator) A machine with a

bucket attached to the front of the tractor. Earth and sand

can be scooped up and loaded onto dump trucks using

the bucket. In addition to buckets for excavating earth

and rocks, the truck can be equipped with a fork for

Wheel-type tractor excavators and dump trucks
moving obstructing vehicles, etc., and a water gun for

firefighting. There are two types of models: the wheel type and the crawler type.

[Wheel loader] A loading and carrying machine that run on wheels, with a large bucket in front of the

body. By moving the vehicle forward and operating the bucket and boom,

the machine scoops up various materials such as earth, sand, and quarry

stones and loads them onto dump trucks or other vehicles. A wheel loader
Wheel loader
is a tractor excavator that runs on wheels, also called a tire dozer or tire

excavator.

[Dump truck] A vehicle used exclusively for transporting earth,

Dump truck

sand, rocks, etc., and is capable of unloading soil (dumping) by tilting

the bed of the truck. Often used in combination with hydraulic

excavators and wheel loaders.

[Sakuganki] (rock drill) A machine used to break up hard rock and bedrock. It is used to drill blasting

holes for dynamite and for drilling holes to insert wedges break rocks.

[Crane] A machine that uses power to lift and transport a load horizontally. There are several types of

cranes, including tower cranes, truck cranes, and crawler cranes.

[Rough-ter crane] (rough terrain crane) A type of construction machine with a crane mounted on a

truck.

[Crawler crane] A crawler-type crane. It can work in a variety of locations, including on snow and

unpaved ground.

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 Rough terrain crane Crawler crane

5.1.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method

Pipe-Jacking Method Overview Chart (12) Crane equipment (11) Supply

facility (lubricant,
Jacking pipe backfill material)

Railroad

River
(3) Launch portal Thrust Strut (5)
Tunneling Intermediate jacking ring (4)
Main thrusting jack (6)
machine (1) station (10)
Tunneling machine
receiving platform Reaction wall (8)
(15)
(2) Jacking Thrust block (7)
(9) Jacking
(14) Receiving pipe
base
shaft (13) Launching
shaft

[(1) Kusshinki] (tunneling machine) A machine that digs soil. There are various types of machines,

depending on the type of soil to be dug and the method of transporting the excavated soil.

[(2) Jacking pipe] Pipes used in the pipe-jacking method.

[(3) Hasshin koguchi] (launch portal) The opening where the jacking pipe is pushed out of the

launching shaft and into the ground. The launch portal prevents leakage of groundwater and lubricant.

[(4) Oshiwa] (thrust ring) The thrust ring prevents breakage of the jacking pipe by evenly

transmitting the force of the main thrusting jack to the jacking pipes.

[(5) Strut] Struts are used to assist the lack of stroke of hydraulic jacks and as auxiliary struts to

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transmit the jacking force.

[(6) Moto’oshi yuatsu jack] (main thrusting hydraulic jack) The hydraulic force of the thrusting

hydraulic jack pushes the tunneling machine and jacking pipes into the ground.

[(7) Oshikaku] (thrust block) The thrust block distributes the reaction force of the jack and transfers

it to the support wall.

[(8) Shiatsuheki] (reaction wall) The reaction wall evenly transmits and supports the reaction force

of the main thrusting jack to the ground behind the jack.

[(9) Suishindai] (thrust frame) A thrust frame is a frame used to guide jacking pipes to a specified

height and direction.

[(10) Nakaoshi setsubi] (intermediate jacking station) The intermediate jacking station places a

hydraulic jack in the middle of the tunnel to compensate for the lack of jacking force of the main

thrusting jack.

[(11) Chunyu setsubi] (supply facility) This facility supplies materials (e.g., lubricant and backfill

material) necessary for jacking.

[(12) Crane setsubi] (crane facility) This facility lifts jacking pipes and other objects and moves them

down the shaft.

[(13) Hasshin tateko] (launching shaft) A shaft used to push the tunneling machine and jacking pipes

into the ground. In the launching shaft, equipment such as the main thrusting jack is installed and the

jacking pipes are connected.

[(14) Totatsu tateko] (receiving shaft) A shaft used to remove equipment such as tunneling machines

after the tunnel is completed.

[(15) Kusshinki ukedai] (tunneling machine receiving platform) This platform is used to push out

and retrieve the excavator after it arrives to the destination.

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5.1.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work

[Grab shunsetsusen] (grab dredger) A work vessel that grasps sediment from the seafloor by

lowering a machine called a grab bucket, which is attached to a crane at the end of the vessel.

[Pump shunsetsusen] (pump dredger) A work vessel that lowers a rotating machine called a cutter

head, which is attached to the end of the vessel, to the seabed and digs the seabed while sucking up

both the dug sand and soil and sea water.

[Kijukisen] (crane vessel) A work vessel with a crane that lifts, carries, and installs heavy structures

such as large blocks and caissons.

Crane vessel

Pump dredger

[Concrete mixer sen] (concrete mixing vessel) A work vessel equipped with machines for mixing

concrete materials and pumps for placing the mixed concrete.

[Gattosen] (carrier with grab) A work vessel with a grab bucket for transporting sand and stone

materials. It is self-propelled, so it can carry sand and stones to the site, use the vessel's grab bucket to

grab the sand and stones and move them or throw them in.

[Dounsen] (sand/gravel carrier) A work vessel used to transport dredged earth and sand or stones

for construction materials. Some of them can open the bottom of the boat.

[Hikifune] (tugboat) A work vessel used to move large work vessels that cannot move by themselves

by pulling them with wires and ropes.

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[Yobyosen] (anchor handling vessel) A work vessel that

uses a winch attached to the top of the vessel to hoist the

anchors of other work vessels or throw them into the sea.

[Ikari] (anchor) A weight placed on the seabed to secure

Anchor handling
vessel
the ship's position. It has claws, which are inserted into the

seafloor to hold the ship in position.

[Sonar] A machine used to measure the shape of the seafloor, which cannot be seen directly.

[Reddo] (sounding line) A measuring tool with a weight at the end of a graduated rope, it is thrown

into the sea to easily measure the depth of the sea by reading the marks on the rope.

[Fuhyo] (buoy) Equipment placed around construction sites

to notify non-construction vessels of the construction site.

Some of them glow at night.

[Koyaita] (steel sheet piles) Made of thin sheets of iron.

Buoy
Both sides of a single steel sheet pile have hooks called

interlocks that connect the steel sheet piles to each other.

They are interlocked to form a wall that keeps the soil from crumbling.

[Kokankui] (steel tube pile) A pile in the shape of a tube

made of rounded thin plates of iron. Steel tube piles come in

a variety of sizes, ranging from 40-50 cm to over 1 m in

diameter.
Wave-dissipating
blocks
[Concrete block] Making, installing and assembling small

concrete blocks can create a wave-resistant structure.

Concrete blocks of various shapes are used in marine

engineering works.

[Caisson] A large box made of concrete used to build Caisson

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breakwaters, quays, and other marine structures. Larger ones are more than 20 meters in length, width,

and height.

[Suteishi] (uniform riprap) Stones of the same size (30~1,000 kg) and strength for construction.

They are piled to create a trapezoid-shape site (foundation mound) on which structures are built.

5.1. 4 Well Drilling Work

[Boring machine] (drilling machine) Machines for digging relatively small-diameter holes in the

ground. It is used to dig wells as well as for geological surveys. Excavation is performed by rotational

and percussive forces. There are rotary drilling machines, percussion drilling machines, rotary

percussion drilling machines, etc.

[Bit] A component used in the rotary koho (rotary drilling method) Rotating the bit allows digging

through the ground.

[Air hammer] A component used in the air-hammer method. Attached to the end of the drill shaft, it

digs through the ground by rotational and percussive forces. There is a hole at the end of the hammer,

and air pressure delivered through the drill shaft can blow the dug soil up to above the ground.

[Boring pump] A pump used to pump up groundwater from the boreholes. It is used in combination

with boring machines.

5.1.5 Wellpointing

[Wellpoint] A collection pipe fitted with a mesh for filtration. It is attached to the end of a water supply

pipe called a riser pipe.

[Casing kan] (casing pipe) The outer pipe in a double-pipe wellpoint, with the riser pipe inside. A

vacuum pump is used to create a vacuum inside the casing pipe to forcefully collect pore water around

the well.

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[Rotary percussion drill] A machine that drills holes in the ground by rotation and percussion. In the

wellpointing method, it is used to drill holes for large-diameter wellpoints.

[Water jet] A pump used to create a jet of water to drive riser pipes into the ground. A high-pressure

jet of water from a nozzle at the tip is used to drill a hole through which the riser pipe is driven.

5.1. 6 Paving Work

[Asphalt] Material used in paving. It is made from the residue left over from producing gasoline or

diesel oil. It hardens at room temperature and becomes liquid at higher temperatures.

[Asphalt finisher] A machine used to spread and level asphalt. It consists of a tractor section with

engine, hopper, and screed. There are two types of tractor sections: crawler type and wheel type. A

hopper is a cage-like device that holds asphalt. Screed is a device for spreading asphalt. Asphalt from

the hopper is sent to the screed by a conveyor belt.

[Concrete cutter] A machine for cutting concrete and asphalt.

[Breaker] (paving breaker) A machine used to break the road surface of paved roads. It is used by

attaching it to the tip of a hydraulic excavator or backhoe. It is also used for demolition of concrete

structures and rock excavation.

[Distributor] A machine used to spread asphalt emulsifier on roads. A large tank is equipped with

asphalt emulsifier, which is sprayed onto the asphalt Hand guide roller

pavement from the back of the vehicle.

[Hand guide roller] A small hand-pushed road roller.

5.1.7 Piling Work

[Earth drill kussakuki] (earth drilling machine) A machine used in the cast-in-situ concrete piling

method that drills holes for piles. The ground is excavated by rotating the drilling bucket. Soil

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accumulates in the bucket and is discharged to the ground when full. This method is called the earth

drill method.

[Zenshukaiten kussakuki] (full slewing excavator) A machine used in the cast-in-situ concrete

piling method that grasps a steel tube called a casing (or casing tube) and pushes it into the ground

while rotating it 360 degrees. This method is called the all-casing method.

[Hammer grab] This bucket is used to grab up earth and sand in the casing tube and discharge it to

the ground. Used in conjunction with a full slewing excavator in the all-casing method.

[Pile driver] A machine for drilling holes to set pre-cast piles. For large machines, there is a three-

point pile driver to support the drill section stably.

5.1. 8 Scaffolding Work

[Ashibayo buzai] (scaffolding members) Members used to build scaffolding. The materials used for

tube scaffolding, frame scaffolding, and ringlock scaffolding differ from each other.

[Kusabi kinketsushiki ashibayo buzai] (ringlock scaffolding members) Kusabi kinketsushiki

ashiba (ringlock scaffolding) is a type of scaffolding that uses scaffold members designed to be

assembled and disassembled with a single hammer. Basic members include jacks, posts, handrails,

scaffold planks with hooks, brackets, cross braces, steel stairs, guardrails, and wall jacks. Basic

members are galvanized to resist rust and provide durability.

[Wakugumi ashibayo buzai] (frame scaffold members) Wakugumi ashiba (frame scaffold) is a type

of scaffolding in which basic members such as jacks, cross braces, and steel scaffold planks with hooks

are assembled around portal frames. Basic members include formwork, jacks, cross braces, joint pins,

scaffold planks, wall tie anchors, handrails, ledgers, and toe boards.

117
[Tankan ashibayo buzai] (tube scaffolding members) Tankan ashiba (tube scaffolding) is a type of

scaffolding that is assembled using clamps to bind circular hollow sections made of 48.6 mm-diameter

steel tubes. The scaffold shape can be flexibly changed, allowing it to be used for scaffolding in tight

spaces. It is inferior to frame scaffolding in terms of strength and safety, and is mainly used as

scaffolding for painting low-rise exterior walls. Basic members include circular hollow sections, foot

plates, clamps, circular hollow section brackets, scaffold boards, and joints.

Frame Tube
scaffolding scaffolding

Ringlock scaffolding

[Tankan pipe] (circular hollow section) Tubes for scaffolding made of 48.6 mm-diameter steel tubes.

[Joint] A member used to connect circular hollow sections.

[Kotei base] (foot plate) Base fitting to fix an upright circular hollow section (tateji (upright circular

hollow section)).

[Clamp] Hardware used to connect circular hollow sections orthogonally or diagonally. There are 90-

degree clamps and adjustable clamps.

[Sujikai] (cross brace) A member used to reinforce the structure in order to prevent scaffolding from

collapsing due to wind or other factors. It is placed diagonally between the posts.

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[Ashibaita] (scaffold board) Boards that serve as working aisles and platforms in scaffolding.

Cross
brace
Clamp
Circular hollow Clamp
Circular hollow
section
section

Scaffold
Foot plate board
Foot plate

Scaffold plank
[Nunoita] (scaffold plank with hooks) A member that with hooks

serves as the working platform of scaffolding. Unlike

scaffold boards, it has hooks to secure it to the beams

attached to the upright circular hollow section.

[Tankan bracket] (circular hollow section bracket)

A member used to support the scaffold board from below. The horizontal portion onto which the

scaffold plank with hooks is supported at an angle.

[Habaki] (toe board) Board material attached to the

outer edge of the scaffold board. Attached to prevent

objects from falling.

Circular hollow
section bracket
[Kabetsunagi] (wall tie anchor) A member to secure

scaffolds to walls and other structures to prevent them from collapsing.

[Bo’on panel] (soundproofing panel) A panel attached

to scaffolding for soundproofing. Aluminum or stainless Toe board

steel products also serve to prevent the spread of fire.

[Bo’on sheet] (soundproofing sheet] A sheet put up on

scaffolding for soundproofing.

119
[Anzen block] (safety block) A device used to prevent scaffold

workers from falling from heights. The hook of the safety block is

hooked to the safety belt.

[Bansen] (thick wire) The thick wire used to assemble scaffolding

Safety block
is called bansen. To make it stronger than ordinary wire, the iron is

treated with heat and then allowed to cool slowly.

[Bansen cutter] (thick wire cutter) A tool used to cut thick wire.

Thick wire Thick wire cutter

[Chino] A curved tool with a pointed tip. It is used for tying and tightening of thick wires.

[Chino tsuki ryoguchi ratchet wrench] (double-ended ratchet wrench with chino) One end of the

grip is pointed, allowing tightening of thick wires, etc. The pointed end is called shino (chino). The

other end with a hole allows tightening and loosening of bolts. It is used in scaffolding and rebar

construction. The size mainly used by steeplejacks is 17 x 21 mm.

Chino Ratchet wrench with chino

[Ratchet wrench] A wrench that incorporates a

120
clutch that fixes the direction of rotation in one direction

(called ratchet kiko (ratchet mechanism)). The ratchet

mechanism allows efficient turning of bolts and nuts with

just a reciprocating motion of the lever. In steel framing

Ratchet wrench with chino
work, a ratchet wrench with a chino, or a pointed form,

on one end, is used.

5.1.9 Steel Framing Work

[Borushin] (drift pin) A tool used to align bolt holes in steel section joints by tapping into the bolt

holes when they are misaligned.

[Wrench, spanner] A tool used to tighten and loosen bolts

and nuts by rotating them. In American English, it is called

wrench, and in British English, spanner. They both mean the

same thing in English, but in Japan, they refer to different

Spanner

tools. The wrench has a hexagonal tip and captures the bolt at

six points, while the spanner has an open tip and captures the bolt at two points.

[Megane wrench] (box wrench) A wrench with ends of different diameters on both sides of the grip.

[Combination wrench] A wrench that has an opening and captures and turns bolts and nuts at two

points. A combination wrench is a wrench with one spanner end and one box wrench end. The end is

angled at 15 degrees to the grip, so the back and front sides can be used alternately to provide a rotating

stroke for efficient work.

[Impact wrench] A power tool for turning and tightening hexagonal bolts using the impact from the

built-in hammer.

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5.1.10 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work)

[Tekkin cutter] (rebar cutter) A tool used to cut reinforcing

steel bars. There are four types: manual, manual hydraulic,

electric hydraulic, and electric circular saw with a tipped

blade. Electric rebar cutter

[Dendo tekkin cutter] (electric rebar cutter) A power tool

that uses a hydraulic pump to move the blade and cut the

rebar. The rebar is grasped with the tip, and cut by pressing

the blade against it. Rebar bender

[Dendo yuatsushiki tekkin cutter] (electric hydraulic

rebar cutter) A portable cutting machine that can cut rebar

using electricity and hydraulic pressure.

[Tekkin bender] (rebar bender) A tool used to bend rebar.

Stationary rebar bender
[Dendo yuatsushiki tekkin mageki] (electric hydraulic

rebar bender) A portable bender that can bend rebar using

electricity and hydraulic pressure.

[Teichishiki tekkin mageki] (stationary rebar bender)

Stationary-type rebar bender mainly used in rebar processing

plants.
Rebar tier
[Tekkin kessokuki] (rebar tier) A power tool for tying rebars.

Simply insert the arm into where the rebars cross, and pull the trigger to tie them.

[Spacer] A member to secure space (space between the rebar and the formwork) of the rebar. Spacers

for the sides are called donuts, and the members that hold the top and bottom of the slab or beam are

called bar supports.

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[Donut] Donut-shaped spacers fitted to rebars in columns, beams,

and walls to secure space for the correct concrete cover thickness.

[Caramel] Dice-shaped mortar blocks placed under the floor

reinforcement to secure the concrete cover thickness of the floor Donuts

reinforcement. Caramel

[Pura cap] (plastic cap)

Plastic caps placed conspicuously over the tops of the vertical joint

bars and the edges of horizontal bars after completion of the rebar

placement as a safety measure to prevent injury. Plastic cap

[Orijaku] (folding ruler) A tool for measuring short lengths. It is

mainly made of fiberglass or wooden material and has an extended

length of one meter. It is useful when working alone or in situations

where it is difficult to work because it can be folded. This tool is

often used in rebar work.

[Kessokusen] (binding wire) A mild steel wire (generally No. 21 Folding ruler

in thickness) used to connect rebars.

Binding wire

[Hacker] The tying and fixing of reinforcing steel bars together is

called tekkin no kessoku. The tool used to twist and tighten the

binding wire used for tying rebars is called a hacker. It is the most

important tool for a rebar worker. There is a hacker case to store

the hacker.
Hacker

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[Nifuda/efu] (tag) A tag indicating the size, use, position of

use, and number of rebar brought in to the site. It is tied to

the rebar using a thin wire.

5.1.11 Rebar Splicing Work

[Kaatsuki] (pressure system) The section consisting of a Ram cylinder

hydraulic power unit, a high-pressure hose, and a ram cylinder,

Welding
which generates the hydraulic pressure necessary for pressure fixture

welding.

[Assetsuki] (welding fixture) The section in which two rebars to be pressure-welded are set. It is

driven by hydraulic pressure generated by a pressurizing pump.

[Ram cylinder] A device used to transfer the hydraulic pressure to

the pressure system.

[Koatsu hose] (high-pressure hose) A hose with a flexible bendable

structure that can withstand high pressure.

[Dendoshiki kaatsusochi] (electric pressurizer) A hydraulic pump

that can set the pressurizing power as desired. Pressurization can be Electric pressurizer

turned on and off with a switch at hand.

[Jido kaatsusochi] (automatic pressurizer) A machine in which pressurization sequences are

programmed to automate pressurization.

[Burner] (welding torch) The section that emits flames to

heat the pressure-weld joint. There are several different

shapes.
Burner

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[Suikan] (blowpipe) A heating apparatus for mixing and
Blowpipe
delivering oxygen and acetylene gas.

[Eco-valve] A valve designed to open and close the oxygen and

Eco-valve
the acetylene gas flow at the same time. It is used by attaching

it to a blowpipe.

[Gaikan sokuteiyo kigu] (welding gauge) An inspection tool

to measure the diameter and width of the bulge of the pressure-

weld joint.

[Cho’onpa tanshoki] (ultrasonic flaw detector) An

inspection device that detects internal defects by applying

ultrasonic waves to the pressure-weld joint. Welding gauge

[Hippari shikenki] (tensile tester) A machine that performs

tensile tests, which pulls pressure-welded rebars, to test the strength.

[Mage shikenki] (bend tester) A machine that performs bend tests to

test the strength of pressure-welded rebars.

[PS ring] A high molecular weight reducing agent to prevent oxidation

of pressure-weld joints. It also makes it less susceptible to wind and rain.

PS ring

5.1.12 Welding Work

[Hifuku arc yosetsuki] (shielded arc welding machine) A

welding machine that uses a welding rod with a metal core

covered with a coating material (called “flux”). This type of

welding machine is often used at work sites. Welding with a Shielded arc welding
machine
shielded arc welding machine is sometimes called teyosetsu

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(manual welding) because it is done entirely by hand.

[Yosetsubo] (welding rod) Metal rods used to bond the

base metal to be welded. In arc and gas welding, it melts

Welding rod
and becomes one with the base metal.

[Yattoko] (pliers) A tool made of iron for gripping heated iron and

other materials. It consists of two metal rods connected by a hinge.

They can be used to grasp objects with strong force using the principle

of leverage. They are also used in welding to bend things.

Pliers
[Sekihitsu] (stone scribe) A tool used to draw kegaki (scribe marks)

on iron plates, etc. for welding and torch-cutting. Kegaki (scribe marks) means to scratch and draw

lines on the material.

[Spatter fuchaku boshizai] (anti-spatter compound) Spatter is the slag and metal particles scattered

during welding. Since they can lower the quality of the weld finish, this compound is used to prevent

the spatter from sticking. The compound is applied to the

material before welding by brush or spray.

[Shield-mentsuki helmet] (welding helmet) A helmet with a

shield attached to it, protecting the entire face. Mainly used for

welding work. Helmet with a face shield

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5.1.13 Formwork Carpentry

[Form tie] A tool attached to separators to keep the formwork spacing constant, improve passage, and

prevent deformation of the formwork due to lateral

Form tie
pressure from the concrete. It is used to bind the

tubes.
Concrete wall
[Maru separator] (round separator) A tool Round separator
P-con
commonly called sepa or marusepa that is placed

between formwork facing each other to ensure that Circular hollow

Formwork plywood section
the thickness of the concrete will be as indicated in

the construction drawings.

[P-con] A plastic part that is attached to an end of a separator. Attached to both ends of the separator,

they hold the formwork panel in place.

[Tankan pipe/kokan pipe] (circular hollow section, steel

Circular hollow
section
tube) A material used to increase the strength of the

formwork. Circular hollow sections are round whereas steel

tubes are square-shaped.

Form tie

[Sangi] (batten) A 25 x 50 mm piece of wood used together

with plywood. It is used at joints between panels and to supplement the strength of the formwork.

[Sekiita] (formwork plywood) Plywood used to make formwork. Generally, 12 mm thick conpane

(formwork plywood) is used.

[Panel katawaku] (panel formwork) A panel-shaped

formwork made by nailing pieces of batten onto plywood

Panel
to create a panel. Panel formwork is intended for repeated formwork

use.

[Batakaku] (floor support timber) Square timber with a width of 90 mm or 105 mm. It is used to
127
construct pipe supports for receiving the circular hollow sections for the floor framework. It is also

used as a platform on which to place heavy objects.

[Pipe support] (tube support) A member used for the bottom plate of beams and as supports for floor

formwork. It bears the compressive forces. It is called sapo, sappo, support, etc. for short.

[Tonbo bata] (square timber) Square timber often referred to as tonbo and used to construct tube

supports for receiving the circular hollow section (called neda pipe (joist tube)) for the beam bottom

formwork.

Beam bottom
formwork
Floor support
timber

Beam support
Tube support timber
Tube support

[Kakikomizai] (grooving material) A material attached to the formwork to make grooves in concrete

for window frames, etc. It is commonly referred to as ankozai.

[Mengi] (cornering material) Material used to create corners with concrete.

[Mejibo] (grooving rods) Material used to make grooves in the flat surface of concrete.

[Turnbuckle/chain] Used to prevent collapsing of the formwork and to adjust the verticality (i.e., to

accurately level and straighten the columns and beams) by pulling.

[Separator hook] A tool used to guide the separator into the hole drilled in the formwork.

Chain

Turnbuckle
Separator hook

128
[Form tie mawashi] (form tie spanner) A tool used for tightening and loosening form ties.

[Kariwaku hammer] (formwork hammer) This hammer is used to make the formwork for pouring

concrete. It can also pull out nails.

Formwork hammer

Form tie spanner

[Hakurizai] (release agent) An agent applied to the surface of the formwork to facilitate removal.

5.1.14 Concrete Pumping Work

[Agitator] A device that agitates pre-mixed concrete to prevent it from hardening. Trucks equipped

with this function are called truck agitator (concrete agitator trucks) or nama-consha (ready-mixed

concrete trucks).

[Concrete pump] A machine that uses hydraulic or mechanical pressure to feed ready-mixed concrete

(concrete made at a factory that has not hardened yet) brought in by concrete agitator trucks into the

formwork. There are two types of pumps: piston shiki (piston type), which has high pressure and can

pump over long distances, and squeeze shiki (squeeze type), which has low pressure and limited

pumping distance. A device in which a concrete pump is mounted on a vehicle is called a concrete

pump truck.

[Hopper] (concrete hopper) A part that receives ready-mixed concrete from a concrete agitator truck.

A screen is attached to the concrete hopper to prevent people and foreign objects from falling into the

hopper.

[Level sensor sochi] (level sensor device] A device that detects the amount of concrete in the hopper

129
and automatically operates and stops the machine.

[Kinkyu teishi sochi( (emergency stop device) A device used to stop the movement of the concrete

pump when a person is about to be or is caught in the agitator.

[Agitator jido teishi sochi] (automatic agitator stop device) A device that automatically stops the

movement of the agitator when the hopper screen is opened.

[Doryoku dentatsu sochi (PTO)] (Power Take-Off (PTO)) A device used to take the power from

the engine needed by various parts of the concrete pump. Engine power is transmitted to drive the

concrete pump truck, operate the outriggers and boom, and power the hydraulic generator.

[Yuatsu kairo] (hydraulic circuit) A device that generates the hydraulic pressure to move the

equipment of the concrete pump truck. The hydraulic circuit consists of a hydraulic power unit, a

hydraulic control unit, a hydraulic actuation system, and other ancillary equipment.

[Jido kyuyu sochi] (automatic lubricator) A device that sends grease from a grease pump to the

bearings of concrete cylinders, S-pipes, and agitators.

[Senjo sochi] (washer) A device used to wash concrete left in various parts of the equipment of

concrete pump trucks after pumping operation.

[Boom sochi] (boom) Equipment used to bring the delivery pipe to the location where the concrete is

to be placed. Booms can be folding, telescopic, or a combination of these types.

[Senkai sochi] (boom manipulator) A device that moves the boom up and down and swivels it.

[Kadai sochi] (superstructure) A structure for attaching boom and outrigger devices to the vehicle

body. It consists of a sub-frame and a boom pedestal.

[Outrigger sochi] (outrigger) A device that extends outward from the body of the vehicle to maintain

the stability of the concrete pump truck.

[Yusokan] (delivery pipe) A pipe used to deliver concrete from the concrete pump truck to the

location where the concrete is to be placed. It consists of straight pipes, elbow pipes, tapered pipes, a

placing hose, etc.

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[Cement] Material used to make concrete. It has the property to harden when mixed with water.

[Kotsuzai] (aggregate) Sand or gravel that is mixed with cement when making concrete or mortar.

[Konwazai] (mixing agent) Anything other than cement, water, sand, and gravel that is added to

concrete to improve its performance. Includes damping agent, superplasticizer, and hardening

accelerator.

[Slump cone] A formwork for conducting a slump shiken (slump test) to check the quality of ready-

mixed concrete. After pouring the ready-mixed concrete into the slump cone, the slump cone is

removed in order to check the change in height of the ready-mixed concrete. A slump test is always

performed prior to placing concrete.

5.2.15 Painting Work

[Hake] (brush) A tool for painting with bristles attached to the end of a wooden or plastic handle.

There are various types of brushes, including bristle brush,

Brush
rubber brush and flat brush, depending on the area to be painted

and the type of paint, such as oil-based or water-based.

[Pate] (putty) A paste-like material used to eliminate

unevenness and flatten the surface of a substrate (called pate

shori (puttying)).

[Spatula] This tool can be used to mix, apply, and scrape off paint.

[Jushibera] (resin spatula) Used for mixing putty, filling putty, Resin spatula

spreading adhesives, and pressure bonding masking tapes. There are

different types depending on the hardness (bendability), and they are

used for different purposes.

[Kanabera] (metal spatula) Used for various purposes such as

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mixing putty, leveling and finishing, and pressing sealant.

[Joban] (mortar board) A thin board to be held with one hand on which mortar or putty is placed.

Mortar or putty is kneaded using a spatula on the mortar board.

[Teguwa] (plasterer hoe) A tool used to mix wall materials and carry them to the place where they

are to be painted. It is sized so that it can be held and operated with one hand.

[Wool roller] A roller used for efficient painting of wide Wool roller

surfaces. Used in combination with roller handles. Longer

bristles allow the paint to soak in better and are suitable for

painting large surfaces. The shorter ones leave less hair trails

and create a cleaner finish. There are also polyurethane rollers

which can be used for water-based and solvent-based paints.

[Scraper] A tool used to remove stuck-on paint and dirt. The Blade of a scraper

process of scraping off rust and other debris from surfaces

before painting is called keren sagyo (scraping work), and a

scraper is used in this process. Larger ones, also called kerenbo

(scraping sticks), are used not only for the scraping work but
Skiving knife
also for removing P-tiles from the floor.

[Kawasuki] (skiving knife) The tool was originally used to

skive skins, but because of its sharp blade, it is also used for

keren sagyo (scraping work) in the painting process.

[Spray gun] A painting tool that uses compressed air from a compressor to spray a fine mist of paint.

Depending on the paint supply method, there are gravity, suction, and pressure-feeding types.

[Masking tape] A tape used to protect certain areas from paint. It is applied to the border between the

painted area and the area to be protected. It can be easily peeled off. To prevent paint from seeping in

through the gaps, press the tape down well with finger so that there are no lifted areas.

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[Masker] (masker tape) Adhesive tape with a folded sheet to easily protect a large area. The tape is

applied to the protective surface first, and then the sheet is unfolded. Non-slip type is also available.

[Tape primer] A primer used for areas where masking tape is difficult to adhere, such as uneven areas

of concrete. Spray-type products are often used.

Masking tape Masker tape

Protective tape Tape primer

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5.2.16 Landscaping Work

Tools used in landscaping work 1

[Karikomi basami (1)] (trimming shears) Scissors used to cut the leaves and branches to shape the

hedges and low garden trees.

[Sentei basami (2)] (anvil shears) Scissors for cutting thick branches.

[Kibasami (3)] (pruning shears) Scissors for cutting thin branches. They are also called uekibasami.

[Sentei nokogiri (4)] (pruning saw) A saw used to cut branches that are too thick to be cut with

pruning shears.

[Chain saw (5)] A tool that cuts by rotating a chain with many blades. It is used for cutting tree trunks,

etc. There are electric and engine types.

[Hedge trimmer (6) (7)] A tool used for trimming. The two blades move in a scraping motion to cut

branches and leaves, just like scissors. There are electric and engine types.

[Karibaraiki (8)] (mower) A tool for cutting weeds.

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Tools used in landscaping work 2

[Enpi (2)] (pointed spade) A shovel used to cut the lateral roots around the root of a tree.

[Konokiri (11)] (wooden mallet) A small mallet. It is made of hard wood such as oak or zelkova. It

is used to lightly drive support logs or other materials into the ground.

[Tsukibo (12)] (poke stick) A stick used to poke the soil when burying tree roots in a hole.

[Takewari (13)] (bamboo machete) This machete is specially designed for vertically splitting and

shaving bamboo.

[Kuribari (16)] (needle for bamboo fences) A needle used to tie bamboo to bamboo with shuro nawa

(palm rope) when making bamboo fences. It is curved like a fishhook and is used by threading the

shuro nawa through the hole.

[Pin hole (19)] Used to put up level lines by inserting them into the ground.

[Kogai ita (20)] (leveling board) A tool used to beat the soil, sand and prominent soil grains to

partially level the ground. It is used to clean up the edges around stones, etc.

See separate sections for the following tools.

[Double sukoppu(1)] [Ken sukoppu (3)] [Makijaku (4)] [Drill (5)] [Bar (6)] [Kanazuchi (7)]

135
[Suiheiki (8)] [Reki (9)] [Kakeya (10)] [Nokogiri (14)] [Mizuito (15)] [Renga gote (17)]

[Meji gote (18)]

5.2 Common Tools, Machines, Materials, and Measuring Instruments

5.2.1 Power Tools

Power tools can be cordless types that use rechargeable batteries or corded types that use AC power.

[Drill driver] This electric screwdriver can be used for screwing and drilling by changing the bits.

Rotation speed and torque can be adjusted.

[Impact driver] An electric screwdriver that can tighten screws using the impact from the built-in

hammer. It has more power than a drill driver. Rotates at a constant rotation speed and torque.

Drill driver Impact driver

[Bit] A part attached to the tip of an electric screwdriver. Various types of bits for drilling and screws

are available. The part where the bit is attached differs between a drill driver and an impact driver.

Drill driver Impact driver

[Disk grinder] (angle grinder) This power tool can cut, grind, and remove paint from metal pipes

136
and concrete by changing the disc (a round, flat grinding stone for grinding and cutting) attached to

the end of the tool. The high speed torque type is suitable for metal cutting, while the low speed torque

type is suitable for grinding.

Angle grinder

Disk

[Sander] This power tool is used to polish flat surfaces by moving sandpaper. There are several types

of mechanisms for moving sandpaper, including vibrating, belt, and rotating types.

[Marunoko] (circular saw) A power tool for cutting plywood and other materials in a straight line.

Hand-held and fixed types are available. The hand-held type, when it touches the material to be cut,

may move in an unexpected direction due to a force (called kickback) that lifts it away from the

material. This leads to many accidents, and in some cases, they can be serious, life-threatening

accidents. Before use, make sure that the safety cover is working properly.

[Marunoko guide jogi] (circular saw guide ruler) Attached to a circular saw, this ruler is used to cut

materials in a straight line.

Circular saw

Circular saw guide ruler

[Shujin marunoko] (circular saw with dust collection) A circular saw that can cut while collecting

137
fine dust. Two types are available: one for board cutting and the other for metal cutting. There are two

types: one with a dust box to collect dust, and the other with a dust collector to be connected to the

circular saw.

[Shujinki] (dust collector) A power tool used to collect dust produced by cutting. It is used when

cutting tile and concrete products to prevent cutting debris from flying out into the neighborhood.

[Kosoku setsudanki] (high-speed cutter) An electric tool

that cuts metal pipes, rebar, light steel sections, etc. by

rotating a grinding stone for cutting. Much like a chip saw

cutter, but a chip saw uses a circular saw blade to cut

High-speed cutter
materials. The blades of chip saw cutters wear easily,

whereas the blades of high-speed cutters last longer.

[Recipro saw] (reciprocating saw) A power tool that cuts materials by moving a long, thin blade back

and forth.

[Dendo block cutter] (electric block cutter) A power tool for cutting concrete.

[Kugiuchiki] (nail gun) A tool that uses the force of air pressure compressed by a compressor to drive

nails into materials. A compressor is a machine that compresses air.

[Denko drum] (cord reel) A tool for extending an outlet.

Cord reel
Nail gun

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5.2.2 Digging/Leveling/Compacting

[Ken sukoppu] (spear head spade) A tool used for digging in the ground by placing the foot on the

top of the head. It is also called kensuko for short. Do not use as teko (lever).

[Kaku sukoppu] (square head spade) A tool used to scoop and carry soil, asphalt, etc. It is similar

to a spear head spade, but the blade edge is straight to make it easier to scoop soil and other materials.

Also, the top is rounded and does not allow for foot placement. Do not use as teko (lever). It is also

called kakusuko for short.

[Double sukoppu] (double spade) These spades can poke through the ground to dig a deep hole. The

dug soil can be grabbed under the surface and pulled out. It is used for digging holes for piles and

utility poles.

Spear head spade Square head spade Double spade

[Tsuruhashi] (pickaxe) A tool used for excavating hard ground and breaking up asphalt.

[Reki] (rake) A tool used to level soil, spread asphalt, and collect fallen leaves. There are various

shapes and materials, depending on the purpose. Rakes for leveling soil have many thin tines, but rakes

for asphalt have none.

[Joren] (dredge hoe) A tool used to rake up earth, sand and debris.

[Tako] (manual compactor) A tool used to beat and pack soil and other materials by weight.

[Tamper] A tool with a flat metal plate attached to the end of a long handle. It is used to compact

asphalt and other materials by holding the handle and tamping the surface from above.

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[Rammer] A machine used to compact the ground. The weight of the
Rammer
rammer and the force of the impactor, which moves up and down,

compact the surface. It has strong striking power and is suitable for

strong compacting. There are engine- and electric-powered types.

[Vibro-compactor] A machine equipped with an engine to compact

soil and sand by its own weight and vibration. Used for compacting road aggregate base layers, road

subgrade layers, backfill, etc. The machine is pushed and pulled back and forth by hand to compact

the surface. Although the impact force is inferior to that of a rammer, a large area can be compacted

at once. A similar machine is the plate compactor. A plate compactor is more suitable for flattening

due to the larger area of the compacting plate and smaller vibration.

[Vibrator] A machine used to remove air bubbles from concrete and increase the density of the

concrete during concrete placement through vibration.

5.2.3 Layout Marking/Marking Tools

[Sumitsubo] (line marker) A tool used for marking long

straight lines on the surface of a material.

[Sumisashi] (ink pot) The flat part of the ink pot is used for

drawing lines, and the round part (ho) is used in the same way Line marker

as a brush.

140
[Chalk line] Similar to the sumitsubo line marker, but draws a line with powdered chalk.

[Laser marker] A machine that emits laser beams onto walls, ceilings,

and floors to produce horizontal, vertical, and other reference lines for

construction. Laser beams are available in red and green. Green is

relatively easier to see in bright locations. Protective goggles for laser

work are worn to prevent the laser beam from directly entering your eyes.
Laser marker

[Marker pen, marking chalk] Oil-based pen for architectural use. For

example, it is used to allocate the position and pitch (distance between reinforcing bars) where the

reinforcing bars are placed.

[Punch] This tool can be used to make small indentations in metal

surfaces by tapping with a hammer, or to make round holes in

Punch
cloth, leather, etc. The center punch is used to mark metal surfaces

(this is called marking).

5.2.4 Measuring/Inspecting

[Level] A leveling device used to determine the height necessary Level

for the work. Mounted on a tripod, the device is manually leveled

by balancing the built-in bubble vial. A level with an automatic

leveling mechanism is called an auto-level.

[Laser level] An instrument for level surveying by laser and is

used to determine the height necessary for the work.

141
[Transit] An instrument that measures the vertical and

horizontal angles based on the viewpoint supporting a small

telescope. It is used on a tripod. These days, a digital display

type of device called theodolite is often used.

Transit
[Total station] A surveying instrument that combines a light-

wave rangefinder and an electronic transit. Look through the telescope and simply align the crosshairs

with the target and press the button to simultaneously measure the distance and angle from the

reference point. Total stations are used in a wide range of surveying applications, including

topographic surveying, construction site location management, initial ground surveying, and fixed

point surveying.

[Mizuito] (line level) Thread used to straighten lines and match

heights when building foundations or stacking bricks and blocks. It is

made of non-stretch material.

[Suiheiki] (level) A tool used to check whether a construction surface Line level

or object is level with the ground. The level is checked by looking

at the air bubble in the vial. Some use the needle to check the

level, and some are digital levels. Levels with a built-in

inclinometer are also used in residential installations. Level

[Sagefuri] (plumb bob) A weight with a pointed conical tip used

to check the verticality of a pillar or other objects. The verticality is checked

by hanging it from a plumb bob holder fixed to a post using a thread and

checking if the distance between the surface to which the holder is attached

and the thread is constant.

Plumb
bob

142
[Sashigane] (carpenter’s square) A tool made of stainless steel or other metal, used to measure right

angles. It is scaled and can also be used to measure length. The front side is in metric scale, and the

back side is 1.414 (√2) times the front side.

Carpenter’
s square
[Ogane] (triangular ruler) A large triangular ruler for

measuring right angles. It is made on site using the Pythagorean

theorem, the ratio of 3:4:5 . The 3:4:5 is called sashigo at the

worksite.

[Measure] (tape measure) A tape-like tool for measuring length. Sometimes referred to as makijaku

(tape measure). Available in steel and vinyl.

Convex
[Convex] (retractable steel measuring tape) A measure with a

thin metal tape that measures length. Sometimes abbreviated as

conbe, the official name is the convex rule.

[Jogi] (ruler) A tool used for measuring length and drawing

straight lines. Materials include aluminum, stainless steel, and bamboo. To avoid damaging materials

such as fittings, bamboo

rulers are used.

Aluminum ruler Stainless steel ruler Bamboo ruler

[Slump kenjaku] (slump scale) An instrument used to

measure the slump value (the lowered height after the slump

cone is removed) in the slump test.

A slump test being

conducted

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5.2.5 Cutting/Bending/Breaking

[Nokogiri] (saw) A tool with many blades (called me (teeth)) on a metal plate, used to cut wood, metal,

pipes, etc. It is called noko for short.

[Hasami] (scissors) A tool used to cut objects between two blades.

[Kuikiri] (end nipper) A tool used to cut objects between the

blades. Used for processing tiles, cutting wires, etc. It can also

cut the head of a nail.

[Cutter knife] (box cutter) This knife can maintain its sharpness End nipper

by breaking off the tip of the blade.

[Tagane] (masonry chisel) A stick-shaped tool with a blade on one end that can be used to cut thin

metal by tapping it with a hammer. It is also used for hatsuri sagyo (breaking), to break concrete and

mark measurements of roof tiles. Flat masonry chisel, concrete masonry chisel, carving masonry chisel

and others are available depending on use.

[Penchi] (pliers) A tool for bending, cutting, etc. There is a part for gripping with fine grooves to

prevent slipping and a part with blades for cutting.

Box cutter Masonry Pliers

chisel

144
5.2.6 Tapping/Pulling

[Hammer] A tool used to strike things. The material of the

striking head can be metal, rubber, or wood, depending on the

intended use. Those with a metal head is sometimes called

Example of a hammer (for ringlock scaffolding)

kanazuchi.

[Rubber hammer] A hammer with a rubber head. It is Rubber hammer

characterized by its strong striking power without damaging the

material. It is used to compact concrete by tapping the formwork

and making it vibrate during the concrete placing process.

[Kizuchi] (wooden hammer) A hammer with a head made of Wooden hammer

wood. Although the striking force is weaker than that of a metal

hammer, it is less likely to damage the material.

[Kakeya] (large wooden hammer) A large wooden hammer used

for driving stakes, etc. Kakeya is also used to tap hozo

(tenon) into hozo ana (mortise) in the wooden-frame

structure method.

[O-hammer] (large hammer) A hammer with a long Large wooden hammer

handle and a large head. It is used for pile driving and

Crowbar

demolition work.

[Bar] (crowbar) A metal tool that can be used as a lever. The L-

shaped tip has a groove for removing nails. The tip is inserted

under the nail head, and the nail is removed using the principle of

leverage. The other side is either a claw or flat like a spatula. In addition to pulling out nails, a large

crowbar can be used to lift heavy objects. It can also be inserted into a gap for twisting and prying. A

large crowbar is used in the dismantling of the formwork.

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5.2.7 Filing/Polishing/Boring

[Toishi] (grindstone) A tool for cutting and polishing metals, rocks, etc. The small rectangular-shaped

tools are used to sharpen the blades of nomi (wood chisels) and kanna (Japanese hand planes).

[Yasuri] (file) A tool for polishing metal and wood surfaces. There are many types of files for different

purposes, such as metal files and wood files. If chips get stuck in the grooves, a wire brush is used to

carefully remove the chips.

[Sandpaper] A type of yasuri (file) where sand or glass-like grains are applied onto the surface of

paper. There are several types of paper, including taisui paper (water-resistant paper) that resists water

sand nuno paper (cloth paper) that has strength. The numbering indicate coarseness. The smaller the

number, the coarser the grain, and the larger the number, the finer the grain, resulting in a smoother

polished surface.

[Wire brush] A stiff brush made of metal wires. It can be used to remove rust from metal, peel off

paint, and clean file grooves.

Wire brush

Wire brush

5.2.8 Tightening/Fixing

[Monkey Wrench] A wrench with a mechanism that opens and

Monkey wrench
closes. The width between the upper and lower jaws can be

changed to match the diameter of the bolt or nut. The upper jaw

is integrated with the grip, so the force should be applied to the

upper jaw when turning. Because the tip is open, this tool is

classified as spanner, but it uses the word “wrench” as an exception.

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[Socket wrench] A wrench used for nuts and bolts of various sizes by changing the sockets on the

head.

[Box wrench] A wrench in which the socket part for turning nuts and bolts and the handle part are

integrated as a single piece. There are L-shaped and T-shaped types.

[Rokkaku wrench] (hexagon wrench) This tool has a

Hexagon wrench
hexagonal hole and is used to turn bolts. Also called rokkaku bo

wrench.

[Driver] (screwdriver) A tool used to turn screws. There is a

Phillips-head and a flat-blade screwdriver to fit the grooves on

the heads of the screws. It is important to use the correct size to

Screwdriver
avoid breaking the groove of the screw head (called nameru

(stripping)). The shape of the grip is also important. For example,

the grip of a screwdriver for electrical work is round and large so

that the hand can easily wrap around it.

[Kugi] (nail) Something that is hammered in to join members together.

Depending on the application, there are various types of nails, such as Nail

screw nails, concrete nails, casing nails, and corrugated roofing nails.

[Neji] (screw) A cylindrical or conical shaped object with a spiral groove

that is screwed into a member using a screwdriver to secure it to another

member.

[Tapping neji] (self-tapping screw) A screw that threads its own groove into the material as it is being

screwed.

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[Bolt] A type of screw. A bolt (male thread) and a nut
Bolt Nut
(female thread) are used as a set. A washer may also be

used.

Washer

5.2.9 Kneading/Mixing

[Hand mixer] A mixer for paint, mortar, and concrete. Ingredients are placed in a mortar box or bucket

and mixed with a hand mixer.

[Kakuhanki] (stirring machine) A machine for mixing liquids and construction materials. Also

called mixers, various types are used in construction sites.

[Mortar mixer] A machine that mixes cement, water, and sand to make mortar. There are two types

of power sources: one that uses a 100 V power source and the other an engine type.

[Concrete mixer] A mixer designed for concrete, with more

strength than mortar mixers.

[Batch Mixer] A mixer that mixes materials for concrete one

batch at a time.
Concrete mixer
[Torobako] (mortar box) A sturdy box for mixing materials

to make concrete or mortar. Also known as torobune or fune. The ingredients in the mortar box are

kneaded using a stirring machine or a kneading shovel.

[Furui] (sieve) A tool with a mesh that can sort materials according to size. Items to be removed are

sorted according to the size of the mesh. For example, it can take excavated earth and sand and separate

fine soil from gravel.

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5.2.10 Curing/Prepping

[Yojoyo poly sheet] (plastic sheet for curing) Polyethylene film in sheet form. It is used for moisture-

proofing and waterproofing from the ground when pouring concrete, for curing when painting, and to

protect from rain and dust.

[Veneer] (plywood) Thin plywood is laid to protect the floor from scratches.

[Blue sheet] Used to protect walking areas of the floor from paint and dust.

[Hisan boshi net] (anti-scattering net) A mesh-like sheet for scaffolding that covers the entire

building. It is also used to prevent construction materials accumulated on site from scattering, and

cargo from falling off the rear decks of transport vehicles.

[Suichoku yojo net] (vertical safety net) A net attached to scaffolds at construction sites to prevent

materials from flying and falling from scaffolds.

[Suihei yojo net] (horizontal safety net) A net used at

construction sites to avoid humans and materials from falling Horizontal safety
net
from heights.

5.2.11 Scrubbing

[Brush] A tool with bundles of bristles planted at regular intervals onto the base, used for rubbing to

remove dirt. For example, in stonework, a brush wetted with water is used to remove the excess cement

slurry from between the stones.

[Sponge] Foam-molded synthetic resin such as polyurethane, wetted with water and used to remove

dirt. For example, in stonework, it is used to clean surfaces dirty from cement slurry.

[Wes] (rag) Cloth used to wipe off stains from machine oil and other liquids.

[Bucket] A container with a handle for holding and carrying water. For construction purposes, sturdy

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buckets made of galvanized steel sheets are used.

[Hishaku] (ladle) A tool with a handle for ladling water.

5.2.12 Carrying Objects

[Ichirinsha] (wheelbarrow) A tool for carrying items,

Wheelbarrow

consisting of a steel bucket with one wheel in the front. Used

by holding the handles and pushing. It uses the lever

principle with the wheel as the fulcrum, the handles as the

effort, and the bucket as the load to make it easier to carry

heavy objects. Sometimes called neko.

Wheeled
platform
[Daisha] (wheeled platform) A platform with four casters,

used to carry objects. Some have handles and some do not.

A wheeled platform with brakes is also available.

[Sori] (sled) A tool used to move heavy objects such as

stones by putting them on top and pulling it.

[Koro] (log) A log used to move heavy objects. Several are placed parallel to each other, an object is

placed on top, and the object is moved as the logs roll.

[Forklift] A vehicle equipped with forks that move up and

down using hydraulic pressure. Objects placed on the fork

are raised to or lowered from high places.

Forklift

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5.2.13 Hanging/Lifting/Pulling

[Winch] A machine that winds up a rope. Also called makiageki.

[Wire rope] Several high-tensile-strength steel wires are twisted together to form a strand, and then

several strands are twisted together again to form a rope. It has Wire rope

high tensile strength, excellent impact strength, and flexibility for

easy handling. Those with processed ends are used for slinging.

There are also ropes for anchoring.

Shackle

[Shackle] A slinging fixture for connecting a wire rope or chain

to a suspended load.

[Turnbuckle] A device used to tighten ropes and wires.

Shackle
Turnbuckle

[Chain block] A machine that can raise and lower heavy objects Chain block

by applying the principles of lever and pulley. It is used by

attaching it to a tripod, etc.

[Lever hoist] A machine that has the same mechanism as a

chain block, but is smaller than a chain block. It is used to secure

the load, etc. For example, when a backhoe is loaded onto a

truck for transportation, it is also used to secure the backhoe so

that it does not move.

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 Main rope
[Oyazuna kinchoki] (main rope tensioner) A device that
tensioner

can keep the tautness of the main rope to which the hook of

the safety belt is attached. It is used when working at heights,

such as scaffolding work.

[Tirfor] A manual winch used for pulling heavy objects. The

wire rope passed through the tirfor can be pulled strongly by lever operation. When felling a large tree,

pulling the tree with a tirfor can bring it down in the desired direction.

[Jakki] (jack) A device for lifting heavy objects with a small amount of force. The lifting mechanism

includes screws, gears, and hydraulic pressure.

[Kirin jakki] (screw jack) A device that can lift heavy objects vertically by using the thrust generated

when the screw is turned. It is also used to apply force to the left or right by placing it between two

horizontal members in soil retaining structure work.

[Lever block] A tool for lifting and securing loads. It is also used to re-align steel frames (to make

them vertical).

5.2.14 Work Platforms/Ladders

[Hashigo] (ladder) A tool for climbing to high places. It is climbed by stepping onto the rungs. It

should be set at an angle of approximately 75 degrees. If the angle is too steep, there is a risk of falling

backwards. Conversely, if the angle is small, there is a risk of the ladder breaking. Also, always work

with an assistant to support the ladder.

[Kyatatsu] (stepladder) A tool that is a combination of two

ladders. When opened, it can be used as a ladder. When using it

as a stepladder, do not sit or stand on the top. Also, do not work

while straddling the top with legs on either side, as this may upset Stepladder

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the balance and be potentially dangerous.
Portable elevated
[Kahanshiki sagyodai] (portable elevated work platform) A tool work platform

with a platform between two legs that extend and retract. Also

known as nobiuma. There are handrails on top of the work

platform. Leaning outward or pushing against a wall may cause loss

of balance and falling.

[Rolling tower] A platform for working at heights. There are

casters on all four corners to move it around. There are safety

standards for rolling towers under the Industrial Safety and Health Act.

[Kosho sagyosha] (aerial work platform) A vehicle equipped with a device that can raise and lower

a man basket to a height of 2 m or more.

5.2.15 Cleaning

[Hoki] (broom) A tool for cleaning by sweeping. Bamboo branches, bundles of plants or synthetic

fibers are attached to the end of a stick.

[Chiritori] (dustpan) A tool for collecting dust and debris swept with a broom.

Broom Dustpan

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[Blower] A blower. It is used to collect light objects such as Blower

fallen leaves by blowing them with the force of air.

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Chapter 6: Knowledge of Construction Site Work
6.1 Matters Common to Construction Sites

Construction sites are home to technicians from many job categories. Although the work they

perform may appear to be different from each other, experienced technicians are always aware of

certain matters. This realizes high quality and safety. This section describes matters that all technicians

should know.

6.1.1 Characteristics of Construction Work

(1) Construction work is on a build-to-order basis.

The term build-to-order refers to the manufacturing of a single product designed from scratch to

meet the customer's requirements, rather than the repeated production of the same design in factories,

as in the case of automobiles. Construction work is conducted on a build-to-order basis. They are

diverse, from large-scale to small-scale projects, and although some may appear to be similar, each

individual project has different characteristics and conditions. It is important to have the intention of

building-to-order for each customer.

(2) Construction work is subject to location constraints.

The majority of construction work is built in accordance to the unique requirements of the location

for each property, which means that a project will never be repeated under the same conditions.

(3) Construction work is subject to nature.

Construction work is often conducted outdoors and subject to uncertain factors, such as topography,

seasons, weather and other natural conditions.

(4) Construction work is subject to social constraints.

Construction work is local production, and therefore is subject to social constraints on the site. It is

important to manage the site based on safety measures for the surrounding area and environmental

preservation measures. Applicable laws and regulations and the surrounding social environment differ
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depending on the location of construction, and construction work is expected to conform to these

constraints.

(5) Quality is created through safe process.

It is also true in construction work that the quality of the finished structure is created through the

entire safe construction process.

6.1.2 Construction Plan

All construction projects have a construction plan. A construction plan is a plan for the construction

project based on the terms and conditions of the construction contract, drawings, specifications, site

descriptions, and other design documents. The construction plan is prepared considering the following

points.

> Planning within various social constraints, such as relevant laws and regulations.

> Comprehensive planning of management methods for quality, construction budget, process, safety,

and environmental preservation.

> Planning to efficiently combine construction methods to achieve good quality at minimum cost

that is completed within the construction period.

> Planning for accident-free and disaster-free project that considers environmental preservation.

> Planning using the 5Ms of Construction Management. The 5Ms of Construction Management

refers to Manpower, Materials, Methods, Machinery, and Money.

> Conducting sufficient preliminary investigation to understand the local/on-site conditions, etc.,

and planning measures and management methods prior to and during construction.

6.1.3 Construction Management

Construction management is the management necessary for the contractor to complete the

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construction target in the prescribed quality in accordance with the construction plan. Construction

site work is conducted under the following five management indicators (called QCDSE).

[Quality]

This is management to produce a finished structure that fully satisfies the quality required by the

client. Quality inspections, quality tests of materials and various construction tests as stipulated in the

quality control plan are performed to control the ensure prescribed dimensions and shapes.

[Cost]

Cost is money that can be spent on site. The cost of materials, labor, and field expenses related to

the construction project are managed so that they do not exceed the construction budget.

[Delivery]

Companies coordinate with the prime contractor and other contractors in order to ensure that their

construction work can be performed efficiently, and manage the construction process to avoid delays

in the actual work so as to ensure completion within the construction period.

[Safety]

Necessary management is conducted to prevent accidents such as people and objects falling, and to

prevent work-related illnesses such as pneumoconiosis and heat strokes. In addition, risk prediction

training in the daily cycle of safety in construction, patrols during work, safe process meetings, 5S

promotion activities, and other activities are conducted with the goal of achieving zero accidents and

zero occupational injury.

[Environment]

This is management to minimize the impact of construction on the environment, including noise,

vibration, and water pollution. The standards set by laws and ordinances must be observed.

6.1.4 Pre-Construction Preparations

（１） Main considerations for the construction procedure manual

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 In order to ensure high quality in construction work for the day, it is necessary to check and correctly

understand the construction details.

> Review and understand the terms of the construction contract.

> Review and understand the contents of the contracted construction (terms and conditions of the

estimate) and the scope of work.

> Review and understand the blueprints and construction drawings.

> Review and understand the site construction conditions and site rules.

> Review and understand the work schedule with other contractors and connections with

constructions before and after the project.

> Confirm the construction procedures, allocate workers, and prepare materials and equipment.

> Confirm possession and carrying of the Career Up Card and licenses required for the work.

> Identify and understand safety issues.

(2) Pre-work inspection

When working on a construction site, workers use a variety of tools and machinery. Common

accidents for workers occur when handling tools and equipment. Be sure to conduct the following as

pre-work inspection.

> Pre-work inspection of the machinery

- Confirm that machinery capable of conducting the intended work are in place, inspected, and

maintained.

> Checking of equipment, tools, and instruments

- Confirm that the equipment, tools, and instruments to be used are inspected and maintained.

> Confirmation of work procedures

- Confirm that the workflow is realistically feasible.

- Confirm that individual work sharing and collaborative work are assigned in a compatible

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manner, and that the work assignment is correct.

> Confirmation of safety

- Confirm that health and safety protective equipment and safety devices, etc. are being used

correctly.

- Confirm whether emergency responses are appropriate.

6.1.5 Layout Marking (Marking Out)

Sumidashi (sumitsuke) (layout marking (marking out)) refers to marking the location and height of

the structure or component to be constructed on the construction site. In the entire construction process

from beginning to completion, this is the very first step. It is the most important work that requires

quality (accuracy). Precise reference marking and reference level, axis line as per blueprints, etc. are

marked for correct positioning. For layout marking, a tool called a sumitsubo (line marker) is used,

but nowadays a laser illuminator is used to emit a laser beam to mark along the laser. The laser makes

it easy to check for level and right angles. The following are the three main types of layout marking

and marking out work.

Layout marking and marking out Layout marking and marking out locations
work
Layout marking Reference and parent markings for positioning, height
(reference level/GL), axis line, etc.
Marking out for member fabrication Cutting and processing dimensions of reinforcing bars,
formwork, piping, wiring, and other components;
processing dimensions of wooden workpieces; and scribe
marks on sheet-metal
Marking positioning of processed General interior and exterior fittings, intake and exhaust
parts, equipment, hardware, etc. for vents such as ventilation holes, water supply and drainage
installation sanitary piping, air conditioning and sanitary equipment,
and firefighting equipment

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6.2 Construction Knowledge of Each Specialty Work

This section provides an overview of each specialty work and the key points to keep in mind to

avoid accidents and compromising quality. For unfamiliar terms, see Chapters 4 and 5.

6.2.1 Earthwork

(1) Excavation work by hand

First, check the excavation site. For example, unstable stones on the untouched ground can fall and

cause accidents, so check to see if there are any. Also check for cracks, water content, the presence of

springs, and changes in freezing conditions. After heavy rain or earthquakes, these factors are

inspected again because the conditions may have changed. Also, use lighting when working in dark

areas.

Digging into the lowest part of a near-vertical face is called sukashibori (undercutting).

Undercutting should never be done because of the danger of collapsing.

A pickaxe is a tool used for excavation. The pickaxe is a dangerous tool because it has a pointed tip.

Before use, make sure the handle is securely fastened to the head. Also, taking big swings can be very

dangerous because you could hit someone behind you. When two or more people are excavating, make

sure to work at a distance. Instead of staying apart vertically, stay apart in the horizontal direction.

Instead of taking big swings, use the pickaxe's own weight for excavation.

(2) Backfilling, compaction, and machine compaction work

It is important that during backfill, the soil is sufficiently compacted. Remove any material left over

from the previous work in the area to be backfilled. Water, if present, should also be removed before

the work is done. For backfilling, use materials that have been predetermined. Backfilling is done by

a depth of 30 cm or less at a time, using a hand roller or other compaction machine to repeatedly

compact the soil.

A rammer is used for compaction of ditches and other narrow areas. When machine-compacting a

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large surface, a tool called a plate is used, which compacts by vibrating a plate with a large surface. A

rammer is a tool used to compact the ground with the weight of the equipment and the impact caused

by the up-and-down movement of the ram plate. Always operate the rammer with the rammer in front,

slowly pushing to move it forward. Its impact is very heavy, so be careful not to hit your own feet.

Also, when using a rammer with a power cable, pay attention to the cable routing.

(3) Embankment and cutting soil by hand

First, the slope and finished thickness of the slope are determined by surveying and marking with

stakes or other means as reference for the work location. If there are tree roots or water in the area to

be embanked or cut, remove them beforehand. To prevent accidents, do not place heavy objects on top

of the slope (the edge of the plane above the slope). Also, pay attention to soil falling down from the

slope of the cut soil while working. Check the shape of the embankment and cut soil daily.

(4) Handling water

Handling water is an especially important task in earthwork. If it rains, leave a smooth surface after

the work is done to prevent soil from being washed away by the rain. It is also necessary to take

measures to prevent rainwater from seeping in by covering it with a sheet or other means. In addition,

make sure that the construction surface is sloped for drainage, and create a drainage path. If facing a

road, install drainage pipes.

(5) Slope protection work

When spraying mortar on to prevent the slope from

Spraying a sloped surface

collapse, spray from top to bottom. The spraying work

should be carried out perpendicularly to the

construction surface, and with even thickness. The top

of the slope is sprayed along the natural ground to

prevent rainwater infiltration. When spraying on

bedrock, remove unstable rocks, muddy soil, and debris beforehand. If the sprayed surface is earth or

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sand, care should be taken to prevent the pressure of spraying from scattering the earth or sand.

When spraying seeds, soil, and other materials, use specialized machines and make sure to achieve

an even thickness. Turf delivered to the site should be placed as soon as possible. Watering on sunny

days should be done in the morning or evening, avoiding midday.

6.2.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method

There are various methods of tunnel construction, depending on the geological characteristics of the

site to be excavated. This section describes the pipe-jacking method of tunneling, where tunneling

machines are used to excavate underground and construct a tunnel.

Railroad track/Train
Road

River Jacking
pipe
Tunneling
machine Jack

Jacking Jacking Jacking

pipe pipe pipe

Arrival shaft Launching shaft

(1) In pipe jacking, a shaft is first constructed at the starting point of the tunnel to serve as the tunneling

base and a connection to the ground level. The shaft is used to transport materials required for tunnel

construction down, and send excavated earth up to the ground. Heavy materials and equipment are

carried in and out from within and the top of the shaft.

(2) After the shaft is constructed, the jack to push the jacking pipes into the ground and other temporary

equipment are installed, and the tunneling machine is brought into the shaft.

(3) When the tunneling machine is ready, it is launched from the launching shaft (starting point side)

and the tunnel excavation begins. In the pipe-jacking tunneling, factory-made pipes are connected to

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the tunneling machine and pushed into the ground with the jack installed in the shaft. Excavation is

continued by repeating this process until the arrival shaft is reached (end of the tunnel).

(4) Once the tunneling machine has reached the arrival shaft, the tunneling machine, the jack, and

other temporary equipment are dismantled and removed. If manholes or other structures are designed

into the shaft, they are usually constructed after this step.

Matters to be considered in the pipe-jacking tunneling method are as follows.

> Inside the tunnel, be aware of the possibility of oxygen depletion and toxic gases. Carbon monoxide

and carbon dioxide are colorless and odorless, so their presence or absence and concentration must be

measured using a detector. Toxic gas measurements must be taken at the beginning of each work shift

to ensure safety. In addition, ventilation must be provided in the shaft and inside the tunnel.

> Pipe-jacking tunneling is often used for sewer and water piping construction with small pipe

diameters, often 0.2 to 3 m in diameter. In addition to the various temporary equipment required for

pipe-jacking tunneling, excavated earth and sand are carried out through the shafts. Take care to avoid

being caught-between, hit by flying/falling objects and falling from heights.

6.2.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work

At marine civil engineering worksites, many different types of work vessels gather to work. This is

called a fleet. The fleet leader, who organizes the fleet, gives instructions to each work vessel to

perform the work. In addition, each work vessel will be directed by a person called the captain or deck

officer.

Fleet (breakwater
construction)

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(1) Preparation of the construction site

Place a buoy to mark the construction site on the sea. This prevents other vessels from coming in

during construction.

The work vessels used for construction are moved from the work vessel's base port (the port where

the vessels are anchored when not working) to the construction site using a tugboat.

At construction sites, anchors at the four corners of the work vessel are lowered and secured using

an anchor handling vessel to prevent the work vessel from being moved from the construction site due

to waves or wind.

(2) Work performed on/by work vessels

The work vessels perform various types of construction work such as dredging, breakwater

construction, and quay wall construction. The following tasks will be performed on the work vessel

or at the site at sea

[Tamagake sagyo] (slinging) Attaching and detaching wires to loads

Slinging
when lifting them with a crane. In marine civil engineering work,

crane vessels are used to load and unload concrete blocks, stones, and

other materials.

[Crane sagyo] (crane operation) Crane operation involves lifting

heavy objects, moving them from place to place, and lowering

Crane operation
them to a different location. The cranes on the work vessels are (dumping in uniform
riprap)
used for dredging, dumping in uniform riprap, and installing

blocks.

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[Winch sagyo] (winch operation) A winch is a machine

that can wind up and send out wires. When moving or

securing the work vessel, the winch of the anchor handling

vessel is operated. Also, in breakwater construction,

caissons are installed by winch operation.

Winch operation

(3) Safety of marine civil engineering work

Marine civil engineering work cannot be performed when there are large waves, as the work vessels

will be greatly disturbed. When doing construction, it is always necessary to know the weather and

wave forecast.

Marine civil engineering works are performed near the sea, on the sea, and on working vessels. When

working, there is a danger of slipping and falling or falling into the water. Also, work vessels are very

narrow and have various machines on them, making it very easy for workers to bump into or trip over

them, which is very dangerous.

> When working on the sea, always wear a life vest. When worn correctly, life

jackets are designed so that when a person falls overboard, his or her mouth

will be maintained above water.

> The ropes on work vessels are dangerous. Do not place your foot among the

ropes on the deck, or step on them. If the boat moves and the rope suddenly

shifts, the rope can wrap around your leg and cause injuries.
Example of a life
> Boarding and disembarking the work vessel can result in falling into the sea. vest

Do not jump on or off. Climbing to the wharf from

Example of using an installed
ladder
a small boat should be done where there are stairs or

ladders installed, or use a portable ladder.

> When carrying cargo between vessels, a wide

ayumiita (gangplank) is set up. Only one side of the

gangplank is secured to the boat.

165
 > When mooring a work vessel, the eye (the looped part at the end of the rope) is hung on a short

post called a bollard, and when doing so, always use an auxiliary rope to prevent fingers from

being caught in.

> When moving around on a work vessel, only pass Mooring operation with auxiliary rope

through designated areas and do not enter restricted

areas. Comply with the signs on the working vessel.

> Always keep the work vessel deck organized and tidy.

Also, wipe up any oil spills, as they can cause

slipping and falling.

6.2.4 Well Drilling Work

Small wells are for general household use, and water is

pumped manually. Medium-scale wells are installed at

evacuation sites, etc., and water is pumped up using an

emergency generator. Wells used for drinking water must

allow drawing water of good quality.

(1) Preparatory temporary structure

Boring survey
Determine the scope of construction and clear the site. After

clearing the site, the drilling machine is assembled.

(2) Drilling

A boring machine is used to drill straight through to the water-bearing stratum (called taisuiso

(aquifer)), making sure not to collapse the stratum. Use the appropriate drilling equipment to excavate

in the shortest time possible, according to the strata. The drilled hole is filled with drilling mud mad

of melted clay to prevent collapsing and to keep the digging debris afloat. Digging debris is removed

by a device called a bailer. The drilling and removal process is repeated until the aquifer is reached.

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(3) Selection of the aquifer

Once the planned depth is reached, the resistance of the stratum is checked using a method called

denki kenso (electrical logging), in which an electric current is passed through the hole to determine if

the layer is suitable as a water source. Resistance is lower in clay layers, and higher in sand and gravel

layers with good groundwater flow. Once the aquifer is determined, a device called a screen is installed

to extract groundwater at this location.

(4) Gravel filling

Connect and insert the casing pipes into the hole. The area between the drilled surface and the casing

is filled with sorted gravel or silica sand. This is to control sand, secure the screen and casing, and

prevent collapsing of the borehole wall. The depth of the fill, the size of the gravel grains to be used

for filling, and other factors are important, affecting the quality of the finished well.

(5) Finishing

Muddy water in the well is pumped out to allow groundwater to flow out.

(6) Water shielding

Water from the ground surface or aquifers of poor water quality is prevented from entering the well.

(7) Pump installation

A pumping test to determine the amount of water to be pumped and a water quality test to determine

the quality of the water to be pumped are conducted, and the pump is installed.

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6.2.5 Wellpointing Work

When the ground is being excavated for building

Wellpointing work

foundation work, if groundwater flows into the

excavation, earth and sand will flow out of the sides of

the excavated area and interfere with the construction

work. Wellpointing is performed to lower the

groundwater level in close proximity to the stratum in

which construction is taking place to create a strong foundation. Pumping will continue until the

necessary construction is completed. Once the foundation work is complete and pumping is stopped,

groundwater will return to the level natural to the local environment prior to construction. The

wellpointing method is suitable for pumping up water at a depth of 2 m to 7 m. For greater depths, the

deep-well method is used.

(1) Investigation and determination of construction details

Investigate how far the groundwater level should be lowered. Based on the results of the survey, a

projection of the drainage volume is made to determine the spacing and number of wellpoints to be

installed.

(2) Preliminary jetting

Using a jetting pipe, a hole is jetted to the required depth using pressure water from a jet pump

attached to the pipe.

(3) Installing wellpoints

A wellpoint is attached to the end of a riser pipe, and inserted into the previously jetted hole. This

process is repeated at pre-determined intervals.

(4) Connection to the header pipe and installation of the vacuum pump

Connect multiple wellpoints to a header pipe. The header pipe connects to a vacuum pump for

pumping out water.

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6.2.6 Paving Work

If a road to be worked on already exists, it is

Paved road structure
subject to general vehicular and human traffic Asphalt
surface layer
and requires safety measures as specified for Asphalt base
layer
Pavement
traffic safety facilities, such as the placement of Aggregate base layer
(upper layer)
Aggregate base
flaggers, safety cones, security fences, and road layer (lower layer)

construction signs. A paved road is composed of

Subgrade layer

four layers. The construction will be divided into

four processes, one for each layer.

(1) Subgrade layer work

The lowest level of the road is called rosho (subgrade layer). When thick, it can be about 1 m deep.

A backhoe or bulldozer is used to dig into the ground. Because different operations are performed

simultaneously over a short distance, such as excavating with a backhoe, loading excavated soil onto

a dump truck, compacting with a hand roller, spreading and compacting gravel with a bulldozer, and

compacting with a road roller, be mindful of avoiding accidents including collisions with heavy

equipment, entanglement, and being crushed.

(2) Aggregate base layer construction

The aggregate base layer is the middle layer of a paved road, divided into upper and lower layers.

Crushed stone or other materials are placed over the subgrade layer to disperse loads and impacts.

Although not seen at worksites, a machine called jaw crusher is used to crush stones into small pieces,

which is brought in and used. Crushed stones are scooped up from dump trucks with a backhoe or

excavator buckets and spread on the subgrade layer. Workers leveling crushed stones with rakes are

often working at the same time, so care must be taken to avoid accidents.

(3) Asphalt base layer construction

The asphalt base layer is the layer above the aggregate base layer. The heated asphalt is spread and

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leveled with an asphalt finisher. The asphalt finisher is a machine that discharges asphalt in the hopper

from the back. The edges of the road are leveled by hand using a tool called tonbo (asphalt rake). The

spread asphalt is compacted with a macadam roller or other machinery, and further compacted with a

tire roller. By using two different machines, it is possible to compact not only the surface but also the

interior.

(4) Asphalt surface layer construction

The asphalt is spread using the same method as for the base layer construction. The asphalt used in

this process differs in nature from the asphalt used in the base layer construction, having high water

resistance and non-slip properties.

6.2.7 Mechanical Earthwork

Mechanical earthwork is earthwork performed using construction machinery. If multiple machines

or workers will be working on the same construction site, make sure there are no other vehicles or

people around before commencing work. When getting in and out of vehicles, be sure to turn off the

engine and lock the safety lever. In addition, during machine cutting operations, the direction of the

machine's undercarriage should be oriented at a right angle to the cutting edge as a general rule.

When transporting machinery to the construction

site, a vehicle dedicated to machine transfer is used.

A ramp called tohan yogu (loading ramp) is installed

on the transfer vehicle for loading and unloading. Vehicle for

Loading transporting
The ramp should be securely attached to the loading ramp machinery

bed with a slope of 15 degrees or less. Since tipping over a machine can cause a fatal accidents, the

surrounding area must also be kept off-limits.

Because mechanical earthwork often generates noise and vibration, measures such as using

teishindogata kensetsu kikai (low-vibration construction machinery) that have been designated as low-

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vibration/noise construction machinery according to the regulations of the Ministry of Land,

Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, are taken.

In order for the construction work to be carried out as planned, machines must function properly

without malfunctioning. At the end of the day's work, park in a safe place, and lower buckets and other

attachments to the ground. Once the safety lever is in the locked position, allow the machine engine

to idle for about five minutes while stepping off the machine and check for oil leaks, coolant leaks,

etc.. Abnormalities are to be reported to the person in charge of maintenance, and the results of daily

maintenance are recorded in the inspection chart. Even though inspections are performed after work

is completed, it is required by the Occupational Health and Safety Law that brakes and clutches be

inspected before commencing work.

6.2.8 Piling Work

(1) Preliminary investigation of underground objects and facilities

Before piling work begins, a survey of the buried objects is required. For example, if there are buried

gas, water, or power lines in the area where the holes are to be dug, it could cause a major accident.

Presence of large rocks and hard bedrock requires specific methods of excavation and machines. If

important archaeological sites or cultural assets are buried, archaeological excavation and other

research will be required.

(2) Geotechnical survey

In addition to investigating underground objects and facilities, a geotechnical survey of soil quality,

soil strength, and groundwater level is also required. A boring machine is used to dig deep holes and

collect soil samples for investigation and determination.

(3) Safety precautions

Foundation construction involves the use of large machinery, which can pose a variety of hazards.

Most accidents are caused by errors in work procedures, unstable machine locations, falling machines

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or materials due to loss of balance, slipping/tripping or falling into openings due to careless stepping

or backward movements, or being caught-between by entering an area that is off-limits. To avoid

accidents, it is important to check above and around, pay attention to moving machinery, and alert

other workers.

- Danger of falling objects

Incorrect procedure when using a pile driver, such as removing the wire before inserting the pin,

could result in the screw detaching from the joint and falling off. Also, when using a vibro hammer to

drive in or pull out H-beams or sheet piles, the H-beams or sheet piles could fall.

- Danger of being caught-between

When a pile driver or crane is in motion, if the machine is operated incorrectly or if a worker enters

an off-limits area, there is a risk of being caught between the suspended H-beams, sheet piles, the

leader, etc. and other surrounding objects.

- Danger of tipping over

Depending on the location of large machines, they may lose their balance and tip over.

- Danger of falling from heights

Safety precautions for earth drilling work

Open and close the Indicate off-limits zones
bucket only when there
are no possible dangers

Guiding worker

Install steel road plates

Signaling
worker

Although foundation work is not performed at height, and thus there is little risk of falling from

heights, falling into excavated holes due to inattentive backward movement and falling from

machinery such as when performing joint work on a pile driver leader are possible accidents. In

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addition to wearing non-slip shoes, it is important to receive work instructions from the work

supervisor.

6.2.9 Scaffolding Work

As explained in Chapter 3, there are many different types of scaffolding work. This section describes

scaffolding construction. There are several types of scaffolding, including timber scaffolding, tube

scaffolding, framed scaffolding, and ringlock scaffolding, but there are some construction tips that are

common to all types of scaffolding work. It is to make sure that the footing is secure, then assemble it

so that it is vertical and level, and diagonally brace it to keep it straight. To prevent the entire scaffold

from collapsing, when there is a building, it is secured to the building with kabetsunagi (wall tie

anchors). When there is no building, it is braced with circular hollow sections or other means.

(1) Foundation of scaffolding

The ground on which the scaffolding is erected is compacted for strength. If even one upright tube

sinking can cause the entire scaffold to collapse. In addition, the ground is made as flat as possible so

that there are no gaps between the mudsill and the ground.

(2) Fixing the legs

The base fitting is nailed to the mudsill laid on the

ground.
Mudsill

(3) Installation of upright tubes and planks

Base fitting
Upright tubes are erected vertically, and planks

should be attached perpendicular to the upright Upright

Working
tube
platform
tubes. The footings of the upright tubes are

connected to each other by horizontal members to

Beam
secure them.
Plank

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(4) Installation of beams and working platform

Connect the upright tubes on the front side (the building side) and the rear side (the outside) using

braces, and attach the scaffold board (working platform) on top of it.

(5) Installation of stairs, handrails, middle and lower ledgers, and toe board.

Install handrails for workers, middle and lower ledgers for fall prevention, and toe boards to prevent

tools and other items from falling. Handrails are also installed for stairs.

(6) Installation of cross braces

Install large cross braces to keep the entire scaffold vertical and level.

Cross
brace Handrail

Lower ledger

Toe board Stairs

(7) Installation of wall tie anchors

To prevent the entire scaffold from collapsing, it is secured to the side of the building with wall tie

anchors. If there is no building, diagonal supports (yarazu) are installed using circular hollow sections

or similar members.

6.2.10 Steel Framing Work

In steel framing work, steel sections are assembled to complete the framework of a building. It is

performed in the order of steel section fabrication, foundation frame construction, and steel section

erection.

(1) Steel section processing

The steel sections are fabricated in the factory. A construction plan is drawn, and the steel sections

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are cut accordingly. The cut steel sections are assembled and welded, and the welds are inspected by

ultrasonic testing. After inspection, they are coated with rust-proofing paint and transported to the

construction site.

(2) Foundation frame construction

Anchor bolts are secured to the nonstructural concrete with

Example of base plate
installation
anchor bolt stands or other means. This is followed by the

placement of the underground beams and foundation

reinforcement, foundation formwork, and foundation concrete

pouring.

(3) Steel frame erection

Steel columns and anchor bolts fixed to the foundation

Steel section
are joined to each other by a member called a base plate.
Anchor bolt Base plate

Foundation work in steel construction is just as important Non-shrink mortar

as that in scaffolding construction. For example, foundation

Foundation

heights may vary slightly, which, if not adjusted, will affect

the accuracy of the overall building finish. Check the height Fixing steel frames with base
plates
of the foundation and match the base plate height of all

columns using non-shrink mortar or layers of thin steel plates. After making sure the mortar has set,

check the orientation and bolt the columns in place.

There are two methods of fastening the upright members to the beam: bracketed and non-bracketed.

In the bracketed method, the beam is divided into three sections, and the two ends of the beams and

the columns that cross those ends are bracketed together by welding or other means at the factory. The

non-bracketed method is a construction method in which columns and beams are joined directly on

site.

The intersection of columns and beams are bolted and then welded. If the holes for the bolts do not

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match, a tool called a drift pin is used to align them before securing the bolts. At this stage, the nut is

temporarily fixed.

By adding beams, the columns will be pulled and will not be able to maintain their verticality. The

frame is pulled with wires to re-align the steel frames, then the nuts are tightened properly, and then

the intersection is welded (stud welding).

6.2.11 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work)

Concrete is resistant to compressive forces but weak against tensile forces. Because of its tensile

strength, rebar can be placed in concrete to compensate for the weakness of concrete.

Rebar can oxidize and rust. Concrete is alkaline, which

protects the rebar from rust, but over time it will become more

and more neutral. If neutralization progresses to the rebar, the

rebar will rust. Therefore, when placing the reinforcement, it Slab concrete cover
thickness
is important to ensure a certain distance from the surface of

the concrete, or kaburi (concrete cover thickness).

In order to maintain strength, it is necessary to use rebar of

Pitch confirmation tape
a specified thickness and to distribute the rebar with proper

spacing between the rebars. Tape is wrapped around the rebar

to make it easier to check the pitch.

In the case of thin slab rebars, the bars are joined by a

method called rebar lapping. This joint method gains strength

from the concrete's adhesion to the rebar, but because the strength of the concrete affects the strength

of the joint, make sure to secure a sufficient length of overlap and secure the bars with binding wires.

Rebar work is involved throughout the entire construction in a typical RC structure building. In

particular, it is closely related to formwork carpentry, and the processes need to be coordinated with

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each other. In addition, meetings with electric technicians will be necessary for piping and wiring work

for electricity and equipment, and with plumbing technicians for water supply and drainage. Rebar

work is performed in the following order: rebar fabrication, foundation reinforcement, and floor slab

reinforcement.

(1) Rebar processing

Construction drawings are based on structural drawings calculated by a structural design specialist.

From the construction drawings, the required shapes and sizes of rebar and the required number of

each are calculated, and a reinforcement detailing is created. Rebar is cut, bent, or otherwise processed

according to the reinforcement detailing. In addition, bar tags are created based on the reinforcement

detailing. Bar tags are attached to the fabricated rebars and are used for sorting and receipt inspection

at the time of delivery.

Rebar cutting Rebar bending

(2) Foundation reinforcement

Rebar delivered from the processing plant is inspected upon receipt and organized for ease of

retrieval in subsequent operations. The foundation reinforcement work begins by layout marking the

exact location of the foundation onto the nonstructural

concrete. After layout marking is complete, embedded

beam bearing brackets are lined up to keep the main beam

bars of the foundation at a level height, and secured with

Foundation beam
nails or anchors for nonstructural concrete. Spacer blocks
reinforcement

are used to lift the base reinforcement to ensure cover

thickness. After the base reinforcement, the column reinforcement is placed. A column consists of a

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main rebar placed perpendicular to the ground and hoop rebars surrounding the main rebar. Hoop

rebars are installed to reinforce against shear and to prevent the main bar from shifting due to shaking

caused by earthquakes and other shocks. Once the column rebar and hoop rebars are bound, spacers

are installed to secure the cover thickness. After the column rebars, the beam rebars are placed. After

all the foundation reinforcement is completed, the formwork is erected and the foundation concrete is

poured.

(3) Reinforcement of doma (ground under the house)

Typically, pipe burial and backfilling are performed prior to doma reinforcement. Doma

reinforcement is placed in the following order: main rebar placement, distribution rebar placement,

and installation of spacers. After completing the doma reinforcement, the doma concrete will be

poured.

(4) Frame reinforcement

The frame provides the reinforcement for the walls, beams, and slabs.

Wall reinforcement is placed in the following steps: checking the cover thickness, checking the

internal/external relationship of longitudinal and transverse reinforcement, allocating the pitch and

placing reinforcement, placing reinforcement for openings reinforcement, placing spreader rebars, and

placing spacer blocks.

Beam reinforcement is placed in the following order: placement of bottom rebars, temporary

placement of hoops at the ends, placement of top rebars, placement of bottom and top rebars of small

beams, pressure welding, placement of stirrups and tying to top rebars, placement of side and spreader

rebars, dropping into the formwork, and placement of spacers.

The slab shall be doubly reinforced with bottom and top reinforcement consisting of main rebars

and distribution rebars.

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 <Basic composition of beams> Top rebars

Stirrup

Spreader
Spacer rebars

Side
rebars

Bottom
Wall formwork rebars
Dropping in

6.2.12 Rebar Splicing Work

There are several types of rebar splicing methods, but no matter which method is used, the spliced

joint must have strength equal to or greater than that of the base rebar. For example, the splice cannot

be detected when viewing a cross-section of a perfectly

executed gas pressure welded splice, and when a tensile or

bending test is performed, the splice does not break, but

instead the base rebar does. The following steps are used to

check the process while performing pressure welding.

Tensile test
(1) Checking rebar butts

Check for bends in the rebar.

(2) Processing of rebar butts

Rebars are cut by push-cutting at steel construction sites, and therefore their butts are unsuitable for

pressure welding as they are. Since the cut surface oxidizes over time, the rebar is cut using a cold-

cutting, right-angle rebar cutter on the same day that pressure welding is performed.

(3) Mounting onto the welding fixture

Make sure the welding faces of the rebars are clean before setting them to the welding fixture using

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bolts. Because high pressure is exerted onto the rebar during the pressure welding process, the bolts

should be securely fastened so that they do not loosen during the course of the work. When fixing,

check the size of the gap between the butts to be pressure welded.

(4) Heating and pressurizing

First, the part where the rebars are butted together is heated with a burner, and the heated portion is

gradually expanded to the left and right. The approximate range to be heated is about twice the

diameter of the rebar. Simultaneously with heating, pressure is applied to press the butts together. The

butts will gradually bulge out, and the work is finished when they reach a predetermined size.

Work process of gas pressure welding

Neutral Neutral
Hold Initial flame flame
Reducing pressurization
Reducing
Cleaning flame flame

Apply
pressure

Bulge formation

(5) Inspection

The size, length, shaft misalignment, bending, cracks

and dents on the exterior, and bulkiness of the bulge are all

inspected. Examples of bad bulging

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6.2.13 Welding Work

Arc welding is a necessary technique in many areas of construction work. If the current is too low,

proper welding cannot be performed. If the current is too high, the member will melt and create a hole.

Proper and constant distance should be maintained

Arc welding work
between the welding rod and the material to be

welded, without getting too close. A proper weld will

produce a weld scar that looks like a line of shells.

Welding is an easy task for anyone to do once the

basics are mastered, but it is important to take

precautions against physical effects and accidents.

Arc welding uses electrical power to weld metals together, so avoiding electric shocks is the priority.

Even more important is the prevention of effects on people. Inhalation of fumes from welding (metal

vapors cool and solidify in the air and become individual particles floating in the air, which appear

like smoke) can cause symptoms such as headaches, fever, chills, muscle aches, thirst, and fatigue.

Dust masks should be worn to prevent fume inhalation. Also, wear light-shielding glasses or welding

face shield to protect your eyes from harmful rays. The welded area is polished with a grinder, at which

time metal dust adheres to gloves and hands. Avoid rubbing your eyes polishing, as rubbing your eyes

can damage them.

6.2.14 Formwork Carpentry

When fresh concrete is poured into a formwork, the

Formwork carpentry

formwork is subjected to several times the pressure of

the same volume of water. Insufficient reinforcement

of the formwork can lead to accidents where the

formwork breaks (blow-out) and ready-mixed

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concrete flows out. In order to prevent blow-outs, the formwork must be adequately reinforced to

withstand the pressure of the concrete. Also, since placing concrete from height may result in a blow-

out, a detailed discussion is held with the concrete pumping contractor regarding the concrete

placement method.

The formwork should be erected in the correct position, vertically and leveled, and should be

assembled so that it can withstand loads, lateral

Tightening form ties
pressure, vibrations, impacts, etc., without significant

deformation or damage.

Wall formwork should be made from materials such

as separators, form ties, and P-Con to ensure that there

are no misalignments or errors. Form ties can also be

tightened through circular hollow sections to make them stronger.

The slab is supported vertically from below because the weight of the concrete will be applied

directly in the vertical direction. The materials used are, from the bottom, pipe supports called shoring,

floor joist hanger, and floor joist, on top of which formwork plywood (also called sekiita in formwork

carpentry) is attached.

<Slab structure> Formwork plywood

Floor joist Floor joist tube (circular

hanger hollow section)

Pipe support

A sufficient number of pipe supports are required to support the slab. To prevent the shoring from

sliding, the footings are connected in two horizontal directions by pipes called negarami. If the pipe

support is longer, horizontal joints are installed using every 2 m or less in height using circular hollow

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sections. Finally, the chain, turnbuckle, and support are used to push and pull while checking the

verticality and the axis line as adjustments are made.

6.2.15 Concrete Pumping Work

Concrete pumping work involves pouring ready-mixed Acceptance

inspection
concrete delivered by truck agitators into formwork using

pump trucks. The ready-mixed concrete brought in

undergoes acceptance inspection (slump value, air content,

and chloride content) based on the ready-mixed concrete

delivery note, and a test piece for compressive strength inspection is prepared at the same time.

An important thing to do before starting the pouring

work with the pump truck is to prepare the ground to put

out the outriggers that secure the pump truck so that it will

not fall over. To prevent the outriggers from sinking into

the ground due to vibration, the outriggers' jacks are Concrete placement by a pump
truck
supported by the receiving wood on solid ground, and on

softer grounds, the pump truck is installed by laying a steel plate and then opening the outriggers to

their maximum width. In addition, tire stops should be securely inserted. On sloping terrain, adjust the

outriggers' jacks so that the horizontal angle is within 3 degrees both front to back and left to right.

During construction, care must be taken to avoid contact with or cutting power lines due to boom

movement. In the case of high-voltage wires, even without direct contact, the spark discharge may

cause electricity to flow and cause electric shocks. Check and observe the safety clearance distance

(distance away from the wire).

It is also important to inspect the delivery pipes and check connections. If a delivery pipe ruptures,

ready-mixed concrete will flow out, leading to an accident. It should be inspected on a daily basis by

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tapping (checking the sound when tapped) or ultrasonic thickness gauge. Pipes are to be handled

carefully to avoid damage during loading and unloading.

Before placing the ready-mixed concrete, a primer is sent through the delivery pipe first to make

the inner wall more slippery. This primer is discarded, because when cast into the formwork, it

compromises the strength and quality of the concrete. About 1.5 times the amount of the primer,

including the primer, is not placed in the formwork, but instead discarded.

6.2.16 Painting Work

There are many different types of painting work. The important thing common to all types is to

make sure that the paint adheres well to the painted surface. If the work is not done properly, problems

such as the paint film cracking or peeling and loss of luster will occur after one to three years.

Painting is basically divided into three processes: primer, middle coat, and top coat. It is important

that appropriate amount of time is passed between each step of the process in order to let the paint dry,

which is called the process interval period. The time between painting processes must be at least as

long as specified for each coating, and the coating must be allowed to dry thoroughly before moving

on to the next painting process. Process interval periods vary depending on a variety of conditions,

including temperature, insolation and humidity, and the worker must be able to assess the situation in

proceeding with the work. Construction should not be performed when the humidity is 85% or higher,

such as during rainy weather.

Before starting priming, make sure the painted surface is free of debris. This process is called keren

(scraping). If the exterior walls are to be painted, dust and dirt should be removed by high-pressure

washing or other methods, and cracked areas (cracks) should be repaired.

The primer coat is applied to improve adhesion between the substrate and the middle-coating

material. Sealer, primer, filler, and other priming materials are chosen for different purposes.

The middle coat smooths out surfaces that have become uneven due to scratches or cracks in order

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to achieve an even finish. It can also reinforce and enhance adhesion of the topcoat material.

The top coat is the final stage of the painting process, and its finish demonstrates performance in

weather and stain resistance as well as design for

Spray painting
aesthetic purposes. The performance of the painting

work is determined by three layers of paint (primer,

middle coat, and top coat), but is generally evaluated

based on the performance of the top coat paint. In

spray painting, the surface usually receives two coats.

Paint should be applied only where necessary, and therefore, do not forget to cover the areas that do

not need to be painted. Cover the floor with a polyethylene sheet, apply masking tape to the border of

the area to be painted, and use masker tape to cover

large surfaces such as walls. In addition, in exterior Covering work

wall painting, paint can splatter onto cars, etc.,

causing problems. The entire building should be

covered, and automobiles and other vehicles within

the area where paint is likely to splatter are also

covered with sheets.

6.2.17 Landscaping Work

Landscaping is the designing of space through placement of natural stones, trees, plants, and flowers.

Landscape architects, sometimes called niwashi (gardener), create gardens and residential yards based

on traditional Japanese landscaping culture. In recent years, landscaping techniques have also been

required for the greening of building rooftops, wall surfaces, and artificial grounds. Landscape

architects are required to have not only knowledge and skills in planting, diagnostic for plants and

planting substrates, and transplanting, but also artistic and design capabilities. In particular, pruning

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trees in the garden affect the finished landscape, and therefore must be discussed in detail with the

client in order to avoid complaints. It is also important to know that different trees have different

pruning timing. Pruning at the wrong time can cause the plant to die or not bloom.

Landscaping requires a lot of work at heights. Working on an unstable ladder or stepladder can

cause falling accidents. Choose a stepladder location for stability without wobbling, and take measures

to prevent it from falling over, such as by tying and securing the stepladder to the trunk of a tree.

Working on top of a branch can result in a falling accident when the branch breaks. If the height

exceeds 2 m, use a safety belt.

Crane trucks are used to move plants and garden stones, and drag shovels are sometimes used for

excavation work. Take ample care to prevent the machinery from tipping over. There have been

accidents such as being entangled in self-propelled mowers, being trapped under a falling tree when

felling trees with a chainsaw, and receiving direct hits to the head.

Pruning

6.2.18 Demolition Work

Demolition work is performed on structures of all sizes. There are two methods of building

demolition: block kaitai koho (floor-by-floor demolition) and happa kaitai koho (blast demolition).

Here, the floor-by-floor demolition will be explained. Demolition will begin only after confirming that

all lifeline infrastructure (electricity, telephone, fiber optic cable, cable TV, gas, water, sewage, etc.)

are shut off. For example, demolition with active gas, water, and sewage lines can lead to major

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accidents. The demolition work will proceed in the following steps.

(1) Demolition of exterior areas

Remove items from around the building to make the work easier. It is necessary to confirm what is

to be demolished, as there may be items on the property that are not subject to demolition.

(2) Installation of scaffolding and soundproofing

panels

Install scaffolding for the demolition workers. The

entire surface is covered with soundproofing panels,

soundproofing sheets, etc. to prevent noise and Soundproofing

sheet
scattering of dust from demolition.

(3) Demolition of the building interior

Remove fittings, plaster boats, sashes, and various equipment by hand. At this time, separate

recyclable material. In order to utilize resources through recycling and to curb illegal dumping of

waste, the Construction Material Recycling Act establishes standards and penalties for demolition of

buildings with a floor area of 80 m2 or more.

(4) Drilling holes in floors on each floor

Drill holes in the floor to allow the demolished walls and structural debris to be dropped down.

(5) Installation of support for heavy machinery

Walls and columns are dismantled by hoisting heavy equipment upward. Provide supports to

withstand the weight of heavy equipment.

(6) Demolition of walls and structure, excavation and demolition of the foundation

Because digging up foundations is an underground construction process, vibration is inevitably

generated. It is important to choose the right time of day to conduct this work.

(7) Disposal of waste, removal of debris from the ground surface, land clearing, and street

cleaning

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 Recyclable materials are taken to a disposal site, and the ground is cleared of debris. The

surrounding streets dirtied by the work are also cleaned and restored to their original condition.

The above is a method of demolishing from the top, but there is also a method of demolishing from

the first floor while supporting the severed columns with jacks. Not only does it eliminate the need for

support installation work in (5), it also allows for efficient removal and sorting of demolition materials.

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 Chapter 7: Safety during Construction Work
7.1 Fatalities in Construction Work

A variety of industrial accidents occur at construction sites. Table 7-1 shows the number of fatal

industrial accidents in the construction industry in 2021 by major accident type, based on the data

released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Among the various types of industrial

accidents that occur, fall from heights, accidents involving construction machinery and cranes, and

crumbling/collapsing are the three major accidents in the construction industry, accounting for 40-

70% of all accidents. Most of the struck-by and caught-in/between/entanglement cases in the table

below are accidents involving construction machinery and cranes.

The most common of the three major disasters is fall from heights, occurring while working in high

places. Aside from the three major disasters, the most common type of accident is traffic accidents that

occur while traveling on public roads. Chapter 7 describes the types and causes of accidents that occur

on civil engineering construction sites, as well as countermeasures and how to be mentally prepared.

Exposure to
Contact with Traffic Traffic
Fall from Slipping/tripping/falling/tipping Caught- hazardous Electric
Crashing Flying/falling Crumbling/Collapsing Struck-By Drowning hot/cold accident accident Total
heights over In/Between/Entanglement substances, shock
objects (road) (other)
etc.

Civil engineering work 19 5 1 4 13 11 15 9 4 3 2 10 1 102

Tunnel construction 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 ０ 0 0 1 0 3

Bridge Construction 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 2 ０ 0 0 0 0 6

Road Construction 3 0 1 1 2 1 2 0 1 0 0 5 0 17

River engineering work 1 3 0 0 1 1 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 10

Erosion-control work 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 4

Harbour/coastal 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 1 6

Other civil engineering 9 0 0 2 4 8 8 2 3 1 2 1 0 44

Building work 71 0 0 5 15 7 6 0 6 5 2 9 0 139

Steel frame and reinforced concrete 23 0 0 3 5 2 0 0 3 4 0 5 0 48

houses

Wooden-frame house construction 12 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 19

Building equipment installation 8 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 16

Other building work 28 0 0 2 7 4 6 0 3 1 0 1 0 56

Other constructions 20 0 0 1 3 1 6 1 1 1 4 6 0 47

Telecommunications work 4 0 0 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 2 2 0 13

Machinery and equipment 4 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6

installation

Other constructions 12 0 0 1 1 1 4 1 0 1 2 4 0 28

Construction industry subtotal 110 5 1 10 31 19 27 10 11 9 8 25 1 288

Table 7-1 Fatal Industrial Accidents in the Construction Industry in 2021 by Major Accident Type
(Compiled from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare's Workplace Safety Website)

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7.1.1 Fatalities and Injuries in Construction

Table 7-2 shows the number of fatal accidents involving foreign workers in all industries in FY2020

and FY2021, as compiled by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Table 7-3 shows that the

construction industry has the highest numbers.

Number of fatalities
Accident Type
FY 2020 FY 2021 ←Table 7-2 Occurrence of Fatal Accidents of
Fall from heights 5 5
Slipping/tripping/falling/tipping Foreign Workers in All Industries
2 0
over
Crashing 1 0
Flying/falling 1 2
Crumbling/Collapsing 3 3 Number of fatalities
Industry Type
Struck-By 4 2 FY 2020 FY 2021
Caught- Manufacturing
2 3 3 8
In/Between/Entanglement industry
Exposure to hazardous Construction
2 0 17 10
substances industry
Electric shock 2 1 Other 10 6
Fire 0 1
Total 30 24
Traffic accident (road) 7 4
Drowning 0 1
Other 1 2 Table 7-3 Number of fatalities by industry
Total 30 24

[Tsuiraku/tenraku] (fall from heights) These are industrial accidents caused by falling from high

places, falling down shafts during construction, or falling down a hole during excavation.

[Tento] (slipping/tripping/falling/tipping over) Industrial accidents caused by tripping over objects

or losing one's balance and falling.

[Gekitotsu] (crashing) Industrial accidents caused by a violent collision with something.

[Hirai/rakka] (flying/falling) Industrial accidents caused by loads being lifted by a crane falling, or

tools or materials falling from a high place.

[Hokai/tokai] (crumbling/collapsing) These are industrial accidents that occur when a scaffold

crumbles or a building under demolition collapses.

[Gekitotsusare] (struck-by) Industrial accidents caused by being struck by heavy machinery that is

running, by a circling bucket, etc.

[Hasamare/makikomare] (caught-in/between/entanglement) Industrial accidents caused by being

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caught or entangled in machinery.

[Yugaibutsu tono sesshoku] (exposure to hazardous substances) Industrial accidents that occur

when hazardous substances, such as chemicals, come into contact with the human body.

[Kanden] (electric shock) Industrial accidents caused by electric current flowing through the body,

for example, by cutting an energized wire or touching a leaking device.

[Kasai] (fire) Industrial accidents caused by being caught in a fire started by a variety of factors.

[Kotsu jiko (doro)] (traffic accident (road)) Industrial accidents that occur while commuting to and

from construction sites, and industrial accidents that occur when a worker is involved in a general

automobile accident during construction work next to a road.

[Obore] (drowning) Industrial accidents that occur by falling into water in places where water is a

part of the work, such as oceans, rivers, and sewerage works.

7.1.2 Types of Fatal Accidents

(1) Fall from heights

Fatalities from falling from heights do not always occur in crashes

from extreme heights, but can also occur in lower places, such as

falling from the back of a dump truck. There have also been

accidents of falling into excavated holes. Since falling often occurs

due to loss of balance or slipping, full-harness fall protection gear

should be worn properly at high altitudes. Also, be sure to use them, accidents have occurred when the

gear is worn but not used.

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(2) Struck-By/Caught-Between

Civil engineering work is prone to heavy equipment

disasters because the work often involves the use of large

construction machinery. Accidents involving being run

over or caught-between by construction machinery, as well

as tipping over and falling of construction machinery, are common. Backhoes have caused accidents

such as collision between the circling arm/bucket and a person, or

a person getting caught between the bucket and an object.

An accident also occurred when a flagger of another vehicle

failed to notice a dump truck backing up and got caught-between.

In addition, accidents have also occurred, such as a dump truck

flicking up the mudsill laid out on the site's loading ramp and hitting a flagger.

A backhoe tipping can result in fatal accidents when someone

is crushed by it. In addition, backhoe tipping accidents are more

likely to occur when loading and unloading backhoes onto and

off trucks, etc.

Falling and tipping over of construction machinery can also

occur while traveling on a ramp or by falling off the shoulder of a road. Paths for construction

machinery should be wide enough to prevent the shoulder from crumbling. Tipping over can also occur

when trying to lift heavy objects with a backhoe. Construction machinery, including but not limited to

backhoes, should not be used for purposes other than those for which they were originally intended.

(3) Traffic accident (road)

Fatalities from traffic accidents, not limited to construction work, are also common in construction,

equipment, and lifeline infrastructure projects. Many

traffic accidents occur while commuting to construction

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sites, and some traffic accidents occur when construction vehicles are traveling on public roads.

Accidents include being hit by another vehicle while loading or unloading goods on a public road, or

a dump truck carrying a load of surplus soil driving too fast and overturning on a curve.

(4) Flying/falling

A flying/falling accident occurs when a person is hit by a flying

or falling object. For example, being struck by the object carried

by a crane or becoming trapped under a falling suspended load.

Insufficient slinging, moving suspended loads, etc. can cause

accidents. The important thing is not to ever go below suspended

loads. Accidents have also occurred due to falling tools and components to be installed.

(5) Collapsing/Crumbling

Because civil engineering work involves dealing with nature, accidents due to landslides and falling

trees have occurred. Accidents can occur especially in excavation work, where the soil wall can

collapse.

7.1.3 Work with A High Number of Fatalities

(1) Characteristics of and accidents in road

Paving work
construction

The photo on the right is of road paving work. Behind

a line of several construction machinery moving forward,

several workers are leveling asphalt. Road construction

accidents include collision with rollers and being hit by

dump trucks backing up. Accidents also occur during paved road repair work by colliding with

backhoe arms and buckets. Road construction is characterized by construction machinery and people

working in close proximity. Flaggers are assigned to ensure the safety of the workers by signaling with

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the operators of the construction machinery, but the workers themselves must also be constantly aware

of the safety situation of their surroundings.

(2) River engineering work

The most common accidents that tend to occur River engineering

work
in river engineering work are those related to

construction machinery and vehicles. At these

construction sites, accidents such as backhoes

tipping over from slopes or people being run over

by moving vehicles can occur. Large blocks are

often used, and accidents can occur during lifting

and moving operations of crane-type backhoes.

(3) Bridge construction

Bridge construction often involves working at

heights. As a result, accidents due to falling

from heights and being hit by flying/falling

objects are more likely to occur. As a result,

accidents due to falling from heights and being

hit by flying/falling objects are more likely to Bridge

construction
occur. Accidents also occur when a worker's

foot is caught on a circular hollow section temporarily fixed at the upper part of a bridge, causing the

formwork to come loose and fall down. Such an accident was caused by an attempt to climb up using

a passageway other than the one provided. The general rule in fall prevention is to wear and reliably

use the full-harness fall protection gear. Falling can also be caused by tripping and losing one's balance.

In addition to watching your step, it is also important not to place unnecessary objects in the

passageways.

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(4) Tunnel construction

As discussed in Chapter 3 Section 3.1.1, there are a variety of tunneling methods that can be used

depending on geological and environmental conditions. The geology, construction machinery used,

and temporary facilities necessary differ by method, so there are some differences in safety

considerations, but there are also many similarities. In tunnels, excavated soil is removed and materials

are transported by railway equipment and dump trucks in a narrow, dark environment, and many

vehicles drive through the tunnel as workers work. As a result, many accidents involving heavy

machinery occur. Although the geology differs, fragile geology such as sandy earth and weathered

rocks are also excavated, which can lead to collapses of strata disturbed by the excavation work,

resulting in rockfall accidents. In tunnel excavation, it is important to carefully observe the geological

conditions near the tunnel face and plan excavation work suitable for the geological conditions.

This section describes matters to be considered when conducting the pipe-jacking tunneling method.

> Inside the tunnel, be aware of the possibility of oxygen depletion and toxic gases. Carbon monoxide

and carbon dioxide are colorless, odorless, and difficult to predict from where they will originate.

Therefore, their presence or absence and concentration should be measured using a detector. Toxic gas

measurements must be taken prior to the beginning of each work shift to ensure safety. Recently, many

tunnel construction sites install automatic measuring devices to continuously take measurements 24

hours a day.

> If flammable gases are likely to be generated, fire is strictly prohibited.

> Pipe-jacking tunneling construction is often used for small-diameter sewer and water pipeline

construction, often with a diameter of 0.8 to 3 meters. In addition to the various temporary equipment

required for pipe-jacking tunneling, excavated earth and sand are carried out through the shafts. Take

care to avoid being caught-between, hit by flying/falling objects and falling from heights. Measures

such as prohibiting entry into the shaft during excavated soil removal are necessary.

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7.2 Safety Activities at Construction Sites

Construction sites are home to technicians from many job categories. Although the work performed

may seem different, experienced technicians are always mindful of some common matters. This

realizes high quality and safety. 7.2 describes common safety activities that all technicians should

know.

7.2.1 Cycle of Safety in Construction

By continuing the cycle of safety in construction, we can make worksites less prone to industrial

accidents. The cycle of safety in construction is to achieve the following aims.

a. Integrate construction procedures and safety.

b. Facilitate cooperation between the prime contractor and other related subcontractors.

c. Make safety and health activities a habit.

d. Be inventive in taking preemptive safety measures.

e. Inform everyone of construction and safety requirements.

Various safety activities should be incorporated into daily operations at construction sites. To

prevent industrial accidents, it is important to set up and continue the daily cycle of safety in

construction.

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 Cycle of Safety in Construction

(1) Safety morning meeting before work

(To be participated by all prime contractors and related

subcontractors)

(8) Safety check at the (2) Safety meeting

end of the workday
Daily cycle of
safety in
construction
(7) Cleaning up your (3) Inspection before
assigned area starting work

(4) Guidance and

supervision during work

(6) Meeting on safe

(5) Safety patrol
processes

(1) Safety morning meeting before work

All prime contractors and related subcontractors participate in the meeting, which includes a

presentation on the results of the safety patrol conducted on the previous day by the worksite managers,

instructions regarding work safety for the day's work, and radio calisthenics.

(2) Safety meeting

Discussions will be led by the foremen, by job category. The training includes reviewing the results

of the previous day's work process, hazard prediction (KY) activities related to today's work process,

and newcomer education.

(3) Inspection before starting work

Before starting work, safety inspections are conducted, including inspections of the machines and

tools used, checking the work content, etc.

(4) Guidance and supervision during work

Site supervisors (foreman, operations supervisor, etc.) provide guidance and supervision to

workers.

(5) Safety patrol

Safety patrols are conducted by the worksite manager and subcontractors, and instructions and

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 guidance are given to each foreman, etc.

(6) Meeting on safe processes

The prime contractor and each specialty contractor will communicate and coordinate with each

other regarding work on the following day, and discuss work methods, etc.

(7) Cleaning up your assigned area

Every worker is to organize, tidy, clean, and sanitize the area he/she worked in.

(8) Safety check at the end of the workday

The prime contractor and the person in charge of specialty contractor will confirm measures to

prevent fire, theft, public disaster, etc.

7.2.2 Safety and Health Education for Newcomers

Safety and health education for newcomers is provided when a business hires new workers. The

implementation of safety and health education for newcomers is required by the Ordinance on

Industrial Safety and Health.

[1] Matters related to danger or harmful effect of machines, etc., or raw materials, etc., and those

related to methods of handling thereof

[2] Matters related to performance of safety devices, harmful substance control devices, or personal

protective equipment and matters related to methods of handling thereof

[3] Matters related to operation procedures

[4] Matters related to inspection at the time of commencement of work

[5] Matters related to the causes and prevention of diseases which workers are susceptible regarding

the work

[6] Matters related to keeping the workplace in order and maintenance of its sanitary conditions

[7] Matters related to emergency measures and evacuation at the time of an accident

[8] Beyond what is set forth in each of the preceding item, matters necessary for maintaining safety

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and health related to the work

7.2.3 Newcomer education

A worker who newly enters a construction site is called a newcomer. Nearly half of all construction

site fatalities occur within one week of newly entering a site. For this reason, the Ministry of Health,

Labour and Welfare has mandated newcomer education. The Guidelines for Construction Site Safety

Management by Master Employer defines the implementation standards as follows.

[Implementation of newcomer education]

In case of newly assigning any employees to work at a construction site, the related subcontractors

shall instruct their foremen, etc., to inform such workers of the following matters based on the

characteristics of said construction site before they commence work at the site, and shall report the

results to the master employer.

[1] Conditions concerning locations where work is conducted by a mixed workforce that consists

of both the master employer's employees and the related subcontractors' employees

[2] Locations that pose a danger to workers (dangerous and harmful places and no-entry zones)

[3] Relationship between work processes conducted at mixed work sites

[4] Evacuation methods

[5] Command structure

[6] Contents of the work involved and industrial accident prevention measures

[7] Rules on safety and health

[8] Plans that prescribe the basic policy and goals of safety and health management at the

construction site and other basic industrial accident prevention measures

The above will be implemented as follows.

(1) Before work on the day the contractor first enters the site to begin work

The person in charge from the construction company (builder), the foreman, and the health and

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safety officer will conduct the training.

(2) Before work on the day a newcomer is added to the contractor's workforce

The foreman and the health and safety officer will conduct the training.

The training will take place in a conference or meeting room in the field office for about 30 minutes.

7.2.4 Safety Gear for Work

The photo below shows the safety gear for work. Full harness fall protection gear (1), helmet (2),

hooks (3), and safety shoes (4) are the basic gear.

[Full-Harness gata tsuiraku boshiyo kigu] (full-harness fall protection gear) The full-harness fall

protection gear prevents falls. From January 2, 2022, it is mandatory to wear it if the height of the

working platform exceeds 6.75 m. However, in the construction industry where falling accidents occur

frequently, the use of full-harness fall protection gear is required even when working at heights

exceeding 5 m. However, falling accidents do occur for those wearing but not using the gear, so be

sure to use it.

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In addition, the following protective and safety equipment is used depending on the task.

[Hogo megane] (protective eyewear) These glasses are designed to protect the eyes from metal and

wood dust, sparks, heat, smoke (including toxic gases), lasers and other harmful rays generated at

construction sites and material processing sites. Select the best eyewear for your purpose.

[Hogo mask] (protective mask) A mask used to protect against dust and other debris. There are

disposable masks and those with replaceable filters. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare

(MHLW) sets the standard for masks. For example, inhaling dust from arc welding and rock cutting

operations over a long period of time can cause lung dysfunction (pneumoconiosis), so the use of

protective masks is mandatory.

[Tebukuro] (gloves) Used to protect hands when performing machine/hand cut processing, painting

work, various types of installation work, and work involving chemical substances. However, gloves

(work gloves) should not be used when using rotating blades such as circular saws, drilling machines,

chamfering machines, pipe threading machines, etc., because gloves (work gloves) can get entangled

in rotating blades and result in accidents.

[Shield-mentsuki helmet] (welding helmet) A helmet with a shield attached to it, protecting the entire

face. Mainly used for welding work.

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7.2.5 Prevention of Heat Strokes

Summer in Japan has many manatsubi (hot day) with temperatures exceeding 30°C and moshobi

(extremely hot day) with temperatures exceeding 35°C. Work performed in hot temperatures can cause

the workers to have heat strokes. Heat stroke can cause

dizziness and fainting, muscle pain and stiffness, profuse

sweating, headache, mood discomfort, nausea, vomiting,

fatigue, a sinking feeling, impaired consciousness,

convulsions, impaired limb movement, high body WBGT measuring

instrument
temperature, and other symptoms that not only make it

impossible to continue working but can also cause death. The Japan Meteorological Agency calculates

and provides information on the predicted value of the Web Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) in each

region. To reduce WBGT values, site managers install large fans, shading nets, dry mist systems, rest

areas, air conditioning equipment, water supply equipment, refrigerators, ice machines, drinking

watervending machines, etc. On extremely hot days, work start and end times may be moved up.

Workers should try to rest in a cool place, such as an air-conditioned rest area, during allotted break

times, and to drink water and consume salt before and after work. Also, wear breathable work clothes,

safety vests that absorb heat easily, etc.

7.2.6 Marks Calling Attention to Work Safety

Marks with a green cross on a white background can be seen at various locations on the construction

site. This mark is called midorijuji (green cross) and is a symbol of safety and health. It is often

designed together with the words anzen daiichi (safety first) because safety is the first and most

important thing on a construction site. Helmets and kyukyubako (first aid kit) containing medicine and

tools for first aid in case of injuries are also marked with the green cross. Sometimes the safety and

health flag, combining the green cross with shirojuji (white cross) which represents eisei (health), is

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used.

Example of the green

cross

Examples of the safety and

health flag

7.2.7 Understanding Human Error

Mistakes caused by humans are called human errors. Human errors occur because we are human.

This includes not only mistakes caused by carelessness, but also those caused by tenuki (cutting

corners), skipping procedures that should have not been skipped. To avoid getting involved in or

causing accidents on construction sites, it is important to be conscious of possible human errors. In

addition, human errors not only cause accidents involving people, but also affect the quality of the

completed construction as well as cause delays in the process. It is said that there are 12 different

causes of human error.

(1) Cognitive errors

It is a human error caused by assumptions. For example, the assumption that “such and such

instructions will be given in this situation” can lead to misreading the actual instructions and cues

given.

(2) Lack of attention

It is a human error caused by lack of attention. Concentrating on one particular task can reduce

attention to one's surroundings and lead to accidents. For example, there are cases where a person is

so focused on the work in front of him that he fails to notice the hole behind him and falls in.

(3) Attention lapse and diminished awareness

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 Attention lapse and diminished awareness can occur especially when engaged in simple and

repetitive tasks. When simple tasks are repeatedly performed, workers stop thinking about those tasks

but instead perform them unconsciously.

(4) Inadequate experience/knowledge

It is a human error caused by lack of experience and ignorance. This can result in improper use of

tools, incorrect understanding of the work process, or inability to anticipate accidents that may be

associated with the work. KY activities before commencing work are an opportunity for seasoned

technicians to share their experience in predicting hazards. Workers can learn what to look out for,

even when engaging in the task for the first time.

(5) Complacency

Humans tend to gain confidence through familiarity and, as a result, tend to be less careful or skip

steps compared to when they were beginners at that task. Accidents are more likely to occur when

workers become complacent and relaxed. No matter how familiar you are with the work, be sure to

practice safe conduct, inspect tools before you work, check your safety equipment, and wear and check

the fit of your safety gear.

(6) Group errors

It is a human error that occurs in groups. For example, when it seems that meeting the construction

deadline is unlikely, it is easy to for the overall atmosphere to lean towards condoning unsafe conduct.

While it is important to meet construction deadlines, the safety of people is of primary concern. In

addition, if accidents occur due to unsafe conduct, they can cause delays in the construction schedule.

(7) Shortcuts and omissions

This is a human error caused by omitting necessary actions and procedures out of the desire to work

efficiently.

(8) Communication errors

This is a human error that occurs because the instructions are not clearly conveyed. Working without

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understanding the instructions can lead to accidents and construction delays.

(9) Behavior based on situational instinct

It is an action that we unintentionally take when we are in a certain situation. Especially when people

are focus on one point, they become oblivious to their surroundings. For example, when a person is

about to fall from a stepladder, he/she would throw his/her tools in order to hang onto the stepladder.

An accident occurs if those tools hit another worker.

(10) Panic

Sudden surprises or panic can easily lead to spontaneous unsafe behavior or giving inappropriate

directions.

(11) Decline in physical and mental functions

What was possible when younger may no longer be possible due to aging. In particular, reduced

function in the legs and hips and vision impairment are difficult to notice because they occur gradually.

It is important to be aware of this so that you do not try uncomfortable actions or postures.

(12) Fatigue

Accumulated fatigue reduces alertness, and this can lead to accidents. It is important to take good

care of your health on a daily basis, including proper sleep and nutrition.

“Have a safe day!”

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