Examination Category(Building Work)
Textbook for
the Written Examination

Ver.20220908

Chapter 1: What is Important in the Japanese Construction Site
1.1 Teamwork ................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Japan's Construction Work Assignments .................................................................... 1
1.3 Construction Career Up System.................................................................................. 2
1.4 Greetings ..................................................................................................................... 3
1.5 Morning Meeting ........................................................................................................ 4
1.5.1 General Morning Meeting................................................................................ 4
1.5.2 Morning Meeting by Job Category .................................................................. 6

Chapter 2: Laws and Regulations that Must Be Observed When Working Onsite in Japan
2.1 Labor Laws ................................................................................................................. 8
2.1.1 Labor Standards Act ......................................................................................... 8
2.1.2 Industrial Safety and Health Act ...................................................................... 11
2.1.3 Minimum Wage Act ......................................................................................... 13
2.1.4 Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance (Workers’ Compensation Insurance) Act ....... 13

2.1.5 Employment Insurance Act .............................................................................. 15
2.1.6 Act on the Improvement of Employment of Construction Workers................. 17
2.1.7 Vocational Abilities Development Promotion Act ........................................... 18
2.2 Construction Business Act .......................................................................................... 19
2.3 Building Standards Act ............................................................................................... 20
2.4 Waste Management Act............................................................................................... 20
2.5 Construction Material Recycling Act.......................................................................... 21
2.6 Air Pollution Control Act ............................................................................................ 21
2.7 Noise Regulation Act and Vibration Regulation Act .................................................. 22
2.8 Water Pollution Prevention Act................................................................................... 22
2.9 Fire Service Act .......................................................................................................... 22
2.10 Water Supply Act ...................................................................................................... 23
2.11 Sewerage Act............................................................................................................. 23

2.12 Gas Business Act ...................................................................................................... 24
2.13 Electricity Business Act ............................................................................................ 24
2.14 Telecommunications Business Act ............................................................................ 25
2.15 Radio Act .................................................................................................................. 25
2.16 Civil Aeronautics Act ................................................................................................ 25
2.17 Parking Lot Act ......................................................................................................... 26

Chapter 3: Construction Work Types and Operations
3.1 Construction Work Types ............................................................................................ 27
3.1.1 Civil Engineering Work ................................................................................... 27
3.1.2 Building Work .................................................................................................. 32
3.1.3 Lifeline Infrastructure/Equipment Installation ................................................. 36
3.2 Major Specialized Works ............................................................................................ 40
3.2.1 Earthwork......................................................................................................... 40
3.2.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method ............................................................... 42
3.2.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work ....................................................................... 42
3.2.4 Well Drilling Work ........................................................................................... 43
3.2.5 Wellpointing Work ........................................................................................... 44
3.2.6 Paving Work ..................................................................................................... 45
3.2.7 Mechanical Earthwork ..................................................................................... 45
3.2.8 Piling Work ...................................................................................................... 46
3.2.9 Scaffolding Work ............................................................................................. 47
3.2.10 Steel Framing Work ....................................................................................... 48
3.2.11 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work)....................................................... 49
3.2.12 Rebar Splicing Work ...................................................................................... 50
3.2.13 Welding Work ................................................................................................ 51
3.2.14 Formwork Carpentry ...................................................................................... 52
3.2.15 Concrete Pumping Work ................................................................................ 53

3.2.16 Painting Work ................................................................................................ 54
3.2.17 Landscaping Work ......................................................................................... 55
3.2.18 Plastering Work .............................................................................................. 56
3.2.19 Carpentry Work .............................................................................................. 57
3.2.20 Roofing Work ................................................................................................. 57
3.2.21 Architectural Sheet Metal Work ..................................................................... 58
3.2.22 Tiling Work .................................................................................................... 60
3.2.23 Interior Finish Work ....................................................................................... 60
3.2.24. Interior Surface Work .................................................................................... 61
3.2.25 Fittings Work.................................................................................................. 62
3.2.26 Sash Setting Work .......................................................................................... 63
3.2.27 Polyurethane Spray Foam Insulation Work.................................................... 63
3.2.28 Waterproofing Work ....................................................................................... 64
3.2.29 Masonry Work................................................................................................ 65
3.2.30 Electrical Work............................................................................................... 66
3.2.31 Telecommunications Work ............................................................................. 67
3.2.32 Pipe Work....................................................................................................... 68
3.2.33 Freezing and Air Conditioning Apparatus Work ............................................ 68
3.2.34 Water Supply, Drainage, and Sanitation Facilities Installation ...................... 69
3.2.35 Heat/Cold Insulation Work............................................................................. 70
3.2.36 Furnace Installation ........................................................................................ 70
3.2.37 Fire Fighting Equipment Installation ............................................................. 71
3.2.38 Demolition Work............................................................................................ 72
3.3 Qualifications Required for Construction Work ......................................................... 72
3.3.1 Types of Qualifications Under the Occupational Health and Safety Law ........ 72
3.3.2 List of Qualifications, Etc. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Law... 73

Chapter 4: Greetings, Terminologies, and Tips on Community Living at Construction Sites
4.1 Greetings, Alerting Emergencies, Etc. ........................................................................ 85
4.1.1 “Good morning.“.............................................................................................. 85
4.1.2 “Stay safe.“ ...................................................................................................... 85
4.1.3 “Thank you for your efforts.“........................................................................... 86
4.1.4 “Thank you for your efforts.“........................................................................... 86
4.1.5 “Excuse me.“.................................................................................................... 86
4.1.6 “Look out“ ....................................................................................................... 87
4.2 Terms Used on Construction Sites .............................................................................. 87
4.2.1 Terms Related to Layout Marking ................................................................... 87
4.2.2 Terms Related to Temporary Enclosures.......................................................... 89
4.2.3 Terms Related to Earthwork............................................................................. 90
4.2.4 Terms Related to Subgrade and Foundation Work ........................................... 93
4.2.5 Terms Related to Scaffolding and Temporary Construction ............................ 93
4.2.6 Terms Related to Rebar, Formwork, and Concrete Casting Work ................... 94
4.2.7 Terms Describing Fit and Condition ................................................................ 96
4.2.8 Terms Related to Length, Breadth, and Width ................................................. 98
4.2.9 Terms Describing Building Structure............................................................... 99
4.2.10 Terms Related to Telecommunications Work ................................................. 99
4.2.11 Terms Used in Lifeline Infrastructure/Equipment Installation Work ............. 102
4.3 Precautions for Communal Living .............................................................................. 104
4.3.1 5S Activities ..................................................................................................... 104
4.3.2 Workers' Break Facility .................................................................................... 105
4.3.3 Clothing Precautions ........................................................................................ 106
4.3.4 Language .......................................................................................................... 106
4.3.5 Cleanup ............................................................................................................ 107

Chapter 1: What Is Important in the Japanese Construction Site
1.1 Teamwork
In construction work, there are many processes before completion. Specialty contractors in various
job categories take on work from the general contractor and proceed with their part of the construction,then passing the baton to the next process. Teamwork among specialty contractors is important toensure a good flow throughout the construction work. During construction, the foreman consults withthe site supervisor and gives instructions to the technicians. At construction sites, senior technicians
work side by side with less experienced junior technicians to offer them advice.

1.2 Japan's Construction Work Assignments
There are various patterns of work assignments for construction projects in Japan, depending on thescale of the project. For example, a typical large-scale construction project is carried out by a plan
similar to that in Figure 1-1, from the ordering of the work to its execution. In small-scale construction
projects such as general housing, the client (the person ordering the building to be build) places theorder with a construction company, which acts as the prime contractor and proceeds with the housing
construction project while managing the specialty contractors.
(1) Client(2) Managing Engineer(3) Designer(4) Company that organizes the entire construction project(5) Site Supervisor(6) Specialty Contractors(6) Specialty Contractors(6) Specialty Contractors

Example: Steel reinforcement

Example: Formwork carpentry

Example: Scaffolding work

ForemanForemanwork (rebar work)

ForemanWorkerWorkerWorkerWorkerWorkerFig. 1-1 Example of a work assignment
1

Worker[(1) Hacchusha] (Client)
Asking a contractor to take on a construction project is called hacchu (order placement). The
organization or company that places that order is hacchusha (the client). Examples of clients include
the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, local governments, private companies,
and individuals.
[(2) Kanrisha] (Managing Engineer) The engineer in a position to confirm that the construction is
being carried out in accordance with the drawings.
[(3) Sekkeisha] (Designer) The engineer who prepares the design documents to realize therequirements of the client.
[(4) Koji zentai wo matomeru kaisha] (The company overseeing the entire project) Commonly referred
to as the zenekon (general contractor).
[(5) Genba kantoku] (Site supervisor)The engineer who supervises and directs the construction site.
[(6) Senmon koji gyosha] (Specialty contractors) Specialists for each construction process. Several
workers will perform the work under the direction of the foreman.

1.3 Construction Career Up System
In Japan, the Construction Career Up System is in place. The Construction Career Up System isbeing promoted as a system that registers the work performance and qualifications of each technician
so as to realize fair evaluation of skills, improvement of construction quality, and streamlining of onsite work. There are four technician levels, and once registered in the system, each technician isissued a card representing their level.

Figure 1-2 Card examples2

Level 4

Level 3

Level 2

Level 1Gold

Silver

Blue

White

Inexperienced(Apprentice-leveltechnician)Technicians who areable to work on site
as foremen

Mid-level(Experienced
technician)Technicians with advanced
management skills(e.g., registered coreengineer)

Figure 1 -3 Career Up System levels and colors of cards
The following three categories are subject to technician evaluation.
- Experience (number of working days)- Knowledge and skills (qualifications held)- Management skills (training for registered core engineer/experience as a foreman)
Level 2 requires a minimum of 645 working days (3 years) after system registration, so everyone
starts at Level 1.

1.4 Greetings
What is deemed important at construction sites in Japan is to prevent onsite accidents. To this end,a variety of initiatives are undertaken every day. The most basic and important aspect of this effort isgreetings. When passing workers in the corridor, it is customary to greet each other by saying“ohayogozaimasu (good morning)” or “otsukaresamadesu (thank you for your hard work)” in themorning. Workers from different job categories greeting each other creates a sense of unity, and thiscreates a pleasant environment in which to work together. Commonly used greetings include“otsukaresamadesu” and “Goanzenni (Be safe today),” which are explained in detail in Chapter 4.
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1.5 Morning Meeting
At Japanese construction sites, a meeting of all workers is held daily before work begins. This iscalled chorei (morning meeting). There are two types of morning meetings: general morning meetingsand morning meetings by job category. The primary purpose of both morning meetings, also referred
to as anzen chorei (safety morning meetings), is to prevent accidents on construction sites.

1.5.1 General Morning Meeting
The general morning meeting mainly consists of theDuring a morning meeting

following.
(1) Greetings from the site supervisor
The greeting of the site supervisor is intended topromote a sense of unity among the workers and toensure that the day's work proceeds safely andpleasantly.
(2) Radio calisthenics

Warm up exercises before work awaken the body and mind, thus preventing injury. Radio taiso(radio calisthenics) is a series of exercises set to music that is well known in Japan, and are performedat morning meetings. Sometimes it is conducted without music, and in such a case, workers move theirbodies while counting “1, 2, 3, 4” loudly.
(3) Confirmation of work content
Each foreman who will be working that day informs everyone of the day's work and personnel
placement. Workers of different job categories are working together at the site. It is important forworkers in other job categories to know the overview of the day’s work in order to prevent hazards. It
also helps to know how it will affect your own work. Also at this time, introductions of new workers(called newcomers) on their first day may be made. If you are being introduced as a newcomer, speak4

loudly and clearly to state your name, the company to which you belong, etc.
(4) Hazard prediction activities (KY activities)
Hazard prediction activities, also known as KY (Kiken Yochi) activities, are conducted by imagining
situations where accidents might occur during the day's work, detecting hazards, and preventing
accidents before they occur. In particular, when work is to be performed differently than before, suchas when construction materials are to be transported, large construction equipment is to be moved, or
new job categories are to be added, take the utmost care in predicting hazards and sharing them withall members of the team.
(5) Checking for safety
Generally, at the end of the morning meeting, the following safety checks are performed out loud inpairs.
OK on the right?

OK on the left?

OK in the front?

OK in the back?

Ok overhead?

OK at the feet?

Helmet chinstrap
fastened?

Clothing and nametag in place?

Safety check(6) Greetings and start work
After safety has been checked, everyone says, “kyo mo goanzen ni!” (have a safe day!). The generalmorning meeting is concluded and the work begins. After this, morning meetings by job categories
are held.

51.5.2 Morning Meeting by Job Category
After the general morning meeting, morning meetings by job categories are held.
(1) Safety chant (touch and call)
Everyone says out loud the safety slogan aloud, with
fingers pointing. In addition to confirming safety, thishelps promote a sense of unity in teamwork. The
following is an example of a chant.
Touch and call

“Zero saigai de iko, yoshi!” (Let's achieve zerodisasters, good!)
KY activities(2) Hazard prediction activities (KY activities)
KY activities related to the entire work site areconducted during the general morning meeting, andsimilarly, KY activities are conducted before starting
work at each job category. KY activities generally follow

Photo 1-4 KY activities

these steps.
[Danger detection]
Extract kiken no point (potential dangers). Have workers speak freely on each task about possible
hazardous conditions and actions for today's work content. Sometimes workers are nominated to makea presentation in order to share their dangerous experiences and to increase each person's sensitivity
to danger as his or her own, thereby preventing accidents.
[Consideration of countermeasures]

Hazard Prediction Activity Chart

Discuss and formulate countermeasures for eachpotential

danger.

Once

thecountermeasures

MonthGroup work content

Here's what we do.

Potential dangers

aredetermined, write them in the Hazard Prediction Activity
Chart.

Today's safety goals
Company
name6

Leader name

Workerpeople[Determination of Action Goals]
Decide on the items of particular importance and set them as today's goals.
[Shout out]
All members conduct shisa kosho (point and call) at the KY board on which the decided action
goals are written, and recite the following.
“XXX, yoshi!” (XXX, good!) “Kyo mo ichinichi anzensagyo de ganbaro! Oh!” (Let's have anotherday of safe work! Yes!)

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Chapter 2: Laws and Regulations that Must Be Observed When
Working Onsite in JapanAs a country governed by the rule of law, Japan has many laws. You are probably already aware of
the laws that pertain to your daily life, such as road traffic laws. Here are some of the laws that you
should be aware of that pertain to the construction industry, with a focus on labor laws.

2.1 Labor Laws
Labor law is the name by which laws on labor issues are collectively referred to. This section
provides an overview and key points of basic labor laws that you should be aware of when working
in the construction industry.

2.1.1 Labor Standards Act(1) Overview
Japan is a liberal country, and as a rule, contracts can be concluded freely. However, since workers
are in a weaker position compared to employers, the Labor Standards Act has been established toprotect them.
Minimum working conditions are set forth in the Labor Standards Act, and any part of the condition
that does not meet the standards is considered illegal and subject to the provisions of the Labor
Standards Act. Working conditions refer to all treatment in the workplace, including not only wages
and working hours but also conditions related to dismissal, accident compensation, health and safety,
communal housing, etc.

(2) Key Points- Deciding Working Conditions
Working conditions are to be determined on an equal footing between employer and worker, andworkers and employers are required to keep their promises.
- Equal Treatment
8

Employers are prohibited from discriminating in wages, working hours, or other working conditions
on the basis of a worker's nationality, creed, or social status.
- Prohibition of Forced Labor
Employers are prohibited from forcing workers to work against their will by the use of physicalviolence, intimidation, confinement, or any other means that unjustly restricts that worker's mental or
physical freedom.
- Prevention of Power Harassment
Power harassment is defined as an act of taking advantage of one's superiority in the workplace tocause mental or physical pain or damage the work environment beyond the scope necessary for thejob.
Under the Act on Comprehensively Advancing Labor Measures, and Stabilizing the Employment
of Workers, and Enriching Workers' Vocational Lives (commonly known as the Power Harassment
Prevention Law), it is mandatory to take preventive measures such as establishing a policy stipulatingthat power harassment is not allowed in the workplace and providing a consultation service. At public
institutions, the Labor Bureau has a consultation corner.
- Making the Working Conditions Explicit
Employers are required to clearly indicate the following six items.
(1) Period of labor contracts (2) Criteria for renewal of fixed-term labor contract (3) Place of
employment and nature of work to be performed (4) Matters related to end times, overtime, breaks,
holidays, and vacations (5) Matters related to wage determination, payment methods, closing dates,
payment dates, and salary increases (6) Matters related to retirement and termination of employment- Prohibition on Establishing the Compensation for Loss or Damage in Advance
It is prohibited to make a contract that stipulates a monetary penalty or establishes the amount ofcompensation for breaching the labor contract in advance.
- Restrictions on the Dismissal of Workers
9A worker may not be dismissed for a period during which he/she is off work for medical treatment
for an injury or illness sustained on the job, nor for 30 days thereafter.
- Advance Notice of Dismissal
If a worker is to be dismissed, 30 days' notice must be given.
- Wages
It is required to pay (1) in currency, (2) directly to the worker, (3) in full, (4) at least once a month,and (5) on a fixed date. (Five Principles of Wage Payment)- Statutory Working Hours
In principle, employees are not allowed to have workers work more than 40 hours per week and 8hours per day.
- Breaks
If the working hours exceed 6 hours, a 45-minute break must be provided, and if the working hours
exceed 8 hours, a 1-hour break must be provided at the same time during the working hours.
- Statutory Days Off
An employer must provide a worker with at least one day off per week.
- Off-Hours Work and Work on Days Off
Off-hours work (overtime) is allowed in cases of temporary need and when a 36 (saburoku)
agreement (labor-management agreement based on Article 36 of the Labor Standards Act) is concluded
and submitted, and the stipulated premium wages must be paid. Temporary needs refer to disaster
restoration work. Surcharge rates are 25% or more for regular overtime, 35% or more for work ondays off, and 25% or more for late-night overtime.
The maximum overtime hours are 45 hours per month and 360 hours per year. This upper limit takes
effect in April 2024 for the construction industry, but it is recommended to adhere to it before 2024 inorder to prevent health problems caused by long working hours.
- Annual Paid Leave
10

Workers who have worked continuously for six months from the date of hiring and have worked atleast 80% of the total working days are entitled to 10 working days of annual paid leave, with one
working day added for each additional year of continuous service, and after two years and six months,
two working days are added for each additional year of continuous service, up to 20 working days.

Years of

6.5 years or
0.5 year

1.5 years

2.5 years

3.5 years

4.5 years

5.5 years

servicemore

Number of
10 days

11 days

12 days

14 days

16 days18 days

20 daysdays granted

In addition, it is illegal for employers to buy back paid vacation time that workers did not use.

2.1.2 Industrial Safety and Health Act(1) Overview
Life, body, and health are of utmost importance to workers, and the purpose of the Industrial Safety
and Health Act is to ensure workers' safety and health in the workplace and to facilitate the creationof comfortable work environments so that they will not be harmed by work.

(2) Key Points- Safety Flags, Etc.
Safety First signs, the Safety Flag (the symbol of the SafetyWeek), and Safety and Health Flag (the symbol to promotehealth and hygiene in addition to safety) are displayed atconstruction sites to remind workers of the importance of zeroaccidents and zero injuries and to raise awareness regarding
safety and hygiene management.
11

Examples of the Safety and Health Flag

- Responsibilities of the Worker
In order to prevent industrial injuries, workers are required to observe the necessary particulars andcooperate with measures to prevent industrial injuries taken by employers and other related parties.
- Safety and Health Education
Safety and health education is required when new workers are hired or when the nature of the work
is changed. In addition, special training, such as the skill training course, is required for crane operation.
- Causes of Work-Related Accidents
Looking at the number of fatalities in work-related accidents in the construction industry in FY2021
by cause, the overwhelming majority were due to Crashes and Falls (110 out of 288 ), followed by
Collapsing/Crumbling (31), Caught-In/Between/Entanglement (27), Traffic Accident (Roads) (25),and Struck-By (19) (-> 7.1 Fatalities in Construction Work). Prevention of Crashes and Falls is
important particularly in high-place work, and scaffolds must be erected to provide working platformand enclosures at least 40 cm wide. In principle, the full-harness fall protection gear should be used(see 7.2.4 Equipment for Work Safety).
- Prevention of Heat Stroke
In summer, it is necessary to provide shade, water, and salt lozenges to prevent heat strokes, and to
be prepared to respond to emergency situations.
- Risk Assessment and KY Activities
Risk assessment is a method for identifying and eliminating potential dangers or hazards in theworkplace. Business operators are obligated to make efforts to prevent occupational accidents byconducting risk assessments and implementing accident prevention measures based on the results of
the risk assessments. Hazards are always present at construction sites, and hazard prediction activities(a.k.a. KY activities) are widely practiced to prevent accidents by identifying potential risks that may
occur at the site.
- Medical Checkup
12Companies are required to conduct medical checkups for their employees. There are teiki kenko
shindan (regular medical checkups) that must be conducted within a year from the previous checkup,
and medical checkups conducted at the time of hiring.
- Stress Check
Workplaces with 50 or more employees are required to conduct stress checks once a year by aphysician, public health nurse, or other health professional to ascertain the extent of psychologicalstrain on a regular basis.

2.1.3 Minimum Wage Act(1) Overview
Minimum wages are established to improve working conditions, stabilize workers' lives, improve
the quality of the labor force, and ensure fair competition in business. Employers must pay workers atleast the minimum wage, and there are penalties for violations.

(2) Key Points- Regional Minimum Wages
Since prices and workers' wage levels vary by region, regional minimum wages are determined by
prefecture. It applies to all employed workers and their employers at workplaces in each prefecture,
regardless of employment status or job category. Minimum wages are publicly announced in theofficial gazette and notified in various ways such as on the website of each prefectural labor bureau.

2.1.4 Industrial Accident Compensation Insurance (Workers’ Compensation
Insurance) Act(1) Overview
When a worker is injured, becomes ill, is left with a disability, or dies as a result of a work-related
or commuting accident, workers' compensation insurance provides insurance benefits to the victim or13his/her surviving family. All hospital treatment costs are paid by workers' compensation insurance,
and the employer is responsible for all insurance premiums.
In the unlikely event of an accident, priority will be given to rescuing victims after confirming safety.
In addition, since the Labour Standard Inspection Offices will conduct an accident investigation todetermine whether an accident is work-related or not, it is necessary to keep as accurate and detailed
a record of the time, circumstances and condition of the accident as possible.

(2) Key Points- Occupational Accidents
Occupational accidents are those in which there is a certain causal relationship between the workand the injury, and which are caused by the affected worker's conduct as part of his/her work or by the
management conditions of the facilities and equipment at the workplace.
- Commuting Accidents
Commuting accidents are those that occur between the residence and the place of employment, or
while traveling from one place of employment to another. The requirement is for accidents to occur
on reasonable routes and methods. For example, if you are registered to use a bus but are involved inan accident while riding a bicycle, you are not eligible.
- Medical Treatment Benefits
When receiving medical treatment at a hospital, the cost of the treatment will be covered.
- Payment for Loss of Salary during a Temporary Absence from Work
Benefits are paid when a person is unable to work due to medical treatment for an injury or illness
and cannot receive wages.
- Benefits for Surviving Family
In the event of death due to an industrial accident, a pension or lump-sum payment and funeral
expenses are provided to the bereaved family.
- Nursing Care Benefits14Benefits are paid when an injury or illness is not yet cured after one year and six months of medical
treatment and the patient is still disabled and receiving nursing care.
- Special Insurance Coverage System by Workers' Compensation Insurance
Workers' compensation insurance covers employed workers, but there are some non-workers who
deserve protection similar to that of workers, based on the actual nature of their work and thecircumstances under which the accident occurred. The special insurance coverage system of workers'
compensation insurance was established to protect these workers by allowing them to enroll in thesystem to the extent that it does not undermine the original intent of the workers' compensation
insurance system. Eligible applicants are employers of small and medium-sized companies in theconstruction industry, their family workers, and independent contractors.
- Injury-Hiding
When an injury or illness occurs as a result of an occupational accident, the employer must submit
the rodosha shishobyo hokoku (Report on Worker's Death, Illness or Injuries) to the Labour Standard
Inspection Offices and apply for workers' compensation. However, employers will experiencedisadvantages, as companies that have suffered serious industrial accidents are no longer allowed toparticipate in biddings for public works projects. Therefore, there have been cases where employers
chose not to submit the Report on Worker's Death, Illness or Injuries but instead instructed the victims
to receive treatment at a hospital using normal health insurance, as if their injuries were caused bytheir own negligence. This is called rosai kakushi (injury hiding), which is a violation of the Industrial
Safety and Health Act and a crime. Please do not cooperate with injury-hiding.

2.1.5 Employment Insurance Act(1) Overview
Employers who employ people are required to have employment insurance. The same applies toforeign nationals. When a person enrolls in the employment insurance, a koyo hoken hihokenshasho
15

(employment insurance card) is issued to the person. Employment insurance consists of shitsugyoto
kyufu (benefits for unemployment) and koyo hoken nijigyo (employment insurance services).
Benefits for Unemployment are benefits (payments) provided to those who have lost their jobs or
are undergoing educational training. Premiums are paid by the worker himself/herself and theemployer, and are also paid by the national treasury (i.e., by the national and local governments).

(2) Key Points- Requirements for Employment Insurance Benefits(1) An insured person (the person with the insurance) of employment insurance has separated fromservice (left the job) and is in the state of shitsugyo (unemployed), meaning that he/she is unable tofind a job in spite of his/her willingness and ability to work.
(2) The insured must have been insured for a total of at least 12 months in the two years prior to thedate of separation.
In general, when a specified skilled worker with a foreign national becomes unemployed, he/she
can receive benefits in the same way as a Japanese national. If you lose your job, you are not required
to return to your home country immediately, but can stay until your status of residence expires, as longas you are looking for a job. If you have stayed in Japan without engaging in activities related to tokutei
gino (specified skills) for more than three months without a justifiable reason, such as staying in Japanfor more than three months without looking for a job, your status of residence may be revoked.
- Employment Insurance Benefits
Employment insurance benefits include kyushokusha kyufu (job applicant benefits). For the Job
Applicant Benefits, basic allowance is provided when a person is unemployed. The basic allowance isequivalent to 45-80% of the daily wage for the six months prior to separation from employment. The
number of days for which benefits can be received is between 90 and 360 days, to be determined basedon the age on the date of separation from employment, the period of time insured, the reason forseparation, and other factors.
16

2.1.6 Act on the Improvement of Employment of Construction Workers(1) Overview
Officially, it is the kensetsu rodosha no koyo no kaizento ni kansuru horitsu (Act on the
Improvement of Employment of Construction Workers). The kensetsu koyo kaizen keikaku(construction employment improvement plan) was formulated to improve the employment
environment in the construction industry, and it defines basic points for measures to improve
employment, develop and improve abilities, and promote the welfare of those working in theconstruction industry.
(2) Construction Employment Improvement Plan
*The Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare has announced the dai 10ji kensetsu koyo kaizen keikaku(Tenth Construction Employment Improvement Plan) for the period from FY2021 to FY2025 (March
2021). The Plan includes the following.
- Recruitment and training of young people*Secure and develop workers by promoting the Construction Career Up System (CCUS), etc.
- Preparation of a foundation for creating an attractive working environment*Improve long working hours in anticipation of the implementation of the regulation on overtime work
hours with penalties (FY2024)*Improve wages and promote labor and social insurance enrollment*Make the full-harness type the general rule for fall prevention equipment for high-place work in orderto ensure the use of appropriate protective equipment in accordance with the possible fall distance toprevent industrial accidents.
- Promotion of vocational skills development and skill transfer*Provide vocational training for personnel who are the future of the construction industry- Establishment of a system to promote employment improvement*Promote CCUS, and normalize the new ninaite-3-po (the new triple-law for construction work17

providers) (the Act on Promoting Quality Assurance in Public Works, the Construction Business Act,and the Act for Promoting Proper Tendering and Contracting for Public Works) in the industry.
*Utilize construction-related subsidies- Addressing foreign workers*Improve employment management of foreign workers*Appropriate acceptance of technical intern trainees and specified skilled workers with foreign
nationals

2.1.7 Vocational Abilities Development Promotion Act(1) Overview
The Vocational Abilities Development Promotion Act aims to enhance the vocational abilities ofworkers by, for example, improving the content of vocational training and skill tests.

(2) Key Points- Vocational Training
Vocational training is training to develop and improve the abilities of workers by providing themwith the skills and knowledge necessary for their jobs. Vocational training conducted by private
employers, etc. that meets legal standards and is accredited by prefectural governors is called
Accredited Vocational Training.
- Trade Skills Tests
The Trade Skills Test is a national system that tests the level of skills possessed by workers andcertifies these skills by the government. If you pass the Trade Skills Test, you will be issued a
Certificate of Passing the Examination, and may call yourself a ginoshi (Certified Skilled Worker). As
of April 1, 2022, there are 32 different types of Trade Skills Tests in the construction field, with special,
first, second, third, and basic grade classifications, or single-grade. There are Trade Skills Test for eachjob category, but some job categories may not have a Trade Skills Test.
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2.2 Construction Business Act
The Construction Business Act was established to contribute to the promotion of public welfare byachieving five objectives. The goal is to promote the sound development of the construction industry
by ensuring that both the client and the specialty contractor who undertakes the work sign and execute(perform) an appropriate contract.
Five Objectives
1. Improvement of qualifications of persons engaged in construction business (Construction
Business License)
2. Proper contracting for construction work (estimates and contracts)
3. Ensuring proper construction (Chief Engineer and Managing Engineer)
4. Protection of the client (On-Site Agents, Work Ledger, Work Plan)
5. Promotion of sound development of the construction industry
The Construction Business Act requires permits for the following 29 types of businesses.
Civil engineering business / Construction business / Carpentry business / Plastering business /Scaffolding and earthwork business
Masonry business / Roofing business / Electrical construction business / Plumbing business / Tile,
brick and concrete block business
Steel structure construction business / Steel reinforcement business / Paving business / Dredging
business / Sheet metal businessGlazing business / Painting business / Waterproofing business / Interior finishing business /Machinery and equipment installation business
Heat insulation business / Telecommunication engineering business / Landscaping business / Well
drilling business / Fittings business
Water and sewerage facilities business / Fire protection facilities business / Sanitation facilities
business / Demolition business19

2.3 Building Standards Act
The law establishes minimum rules that must be followed when constructing or using a building.
This law was enacted to ensure that rules regarding the construction and use of buildings are observed
so that people can live safely and securely. The Building Standards Act consists of two parts: tantai
kitei (individual provisions) and shudan kitei (collective provisions).
[Tantai kitei] (Individual Provisions) Standards are established for the safety and durability of thebuilding itself, earthquake resistance, fire prevention and seismic standards, roofs, exterior walls,
lighting and ventilation in living rooms, toilets, performance of electrical equipment, etc.
[Shudan kitei] (Collective Provisions)These provisions are designed to ensure a good urban
environment created when buildings are built together in an area. For example, there are standards forsites and roads, building coverage ratio, floor area ratio, height restrictions, various slant plane
restrictions, fire prevention districts, and other regulations. In principle, this applies within City
Planning Areas and Quasi-city Planning Areas.

2.4 Waste Management Act
The official name of this law is haikibutsu no shori oyobi seisou ni kansuru horitsu (Waste
Management and Public Cleansing Act). The law was created to protect people's living environment
by controlling waste generation and properly disposing of generated waste through recycling and othermeans.
Gomi (waste) can be divided into two categories: those generated through business activities andthose generated by households.
Waste generated through business activities is further divided into two categories: sangyo haikibutsu(industrial waste) and jigyokei ippan haikibutsu (commercial waste). Construction sites are busy withmany contractors coming and going, each generating waste through their construction process thatmust be disposed of. In order to remove this waste from the construction site, haikibutsu shushu
20unpangyo no kyoka (waste collection and transportation permit) must be obtained. This is to be doneby the prime contractor who receives the construction order directly from the client, with a few
exceptions. This alone may cause subcontractors to not properly address industrial waste they generate.
Therefore, this law also applies to subcontractors with respect to hokan (storage) of industrial waste
at construction sites.
The prime contractor is required to prepare a manifest (construction waste control slip) regarding
the disposal of industrial waste to confirm the series of processes until the proper final disposal of thewaste. Final disposal includes recycling. Workers on site must handle waste according to this manifest.

2.5 Construction Material Recycling Act
The Construction Material Recycling Act is a law that encourages the proper disposal and recyclingof waste materials. The official name of this law iskensetsu koji ni kakawaru shizai no saishigenkato ni
kansuru horitsu (Construction Material RecyclingAct). The Construction Material Recycling Act
requires that construction waste be separated bymaterial type to promote recycling and reuse. Waste
generated at construction sites must be stored in adesignated area according to the classification method determined at the site.

2.6 Air Pollution Control Act
The Air Pollution Control Act specifies emission standards, etc., for air pollutants emitted ordispersed from factories and workplaces by type of substance and by type and size of the facility. In
addition, when construction work involving demolition, remodeling, or repair of buildings or21

structures in which asbestos (specified dust) is used, it requires notification to the prefectural governor
at least 14 days prior to the start of the specified particulates emission or other work.

2.7 Noise Regulation Act and Vibration Regulation Act
The purpose of this law is to protect the living environment and to help protect the health of the
public by regulating the noise and vibration generated by factories and construction work, and by
establishing permissible limits for automobile noise. In designing construction work, the following
items must be considered in order to investigate the location conditions around the construction site
and to reduce noise and vibration overall.
- Selection of low-noise and low-vibration construction methods- Selection of low-noise construction equipment- Planning work hours and processes- Determining the placement of construction equipment that create noise and vibration- Installation of soundproofing facilities, etc.

2.8 Water Pollution Prevention Act
This law was enacted to prevent water pollution of public waters and groundwater. Whendischarging sewage generated from construction sites into sewers or rivers, the standards set by eachprefecture must be followed.

2.9 Fire Service Act
The Fire Service Act is intended to
1. prevent, warn against, and suppress fires, and to protect the lives, bodies, and property of thepeople from fire,22

2. mitigate damage caused by fires or earthquakes and other disasters, and3. maintain order and contribute to the promotion of public welfare by properly transporting people
who have become injured or fallen ill due to disasters, etc.
In buildings, regulations are set for fire extinguishing equipment such as fire extinguishers, indoor
fire hydrants and sprinklers; evacuation equipment such as evacuation ladders; and alarm systems inorder to prevent fires, warn of and extinguish fires, and rescue people from fires.

2.10 Water Supply Act
The Water Supply Act is the law governing waterworks. The law was established to improve publichealth and living conditions by ensuring a clean, abundant, and affordable water supply. For thispurpose, engineers and technicians as stipulated by the Water Supply Act must be assigned and work
must be performed under their direction.

2.11 Sewerage Act
The Sewerage Act is intended to promote the sound development of cities, improve public health,and preserve the quality of public waters through the development of sewerage systems. Wastewaterthat causes the following should not be discharged into the public sewer system.
- It corrodes sewer facilities.
- It generates toxic gases when mixed with other wastewater.
- It clogs the sewer pipes.
- It makes it dangerous to work inside sewer pipes.
- It will reduce the efficacy of the biological treatment in the sewage treatment plant.
- It makes the sludge generated at sewage treatment plants and other facilities difficult to treat anddispose of.

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For the above reasons, water with levels of hydrogen-ion concentration, suspended solids, cadmium,lead, total chromium, copper, zinc, etc. above the standard values should not be discharged.
Wastewater generated at construction sites includes the following.
- Drainage from washing of batcher plants that produce concrete- Drainage from washing of fixtures- Rainwater and spring water that has traveled over/through concrete- Wellpoint drainage, deep-well drainage (depending on size)
Water that travels over or through concrete becomes highly alkaline wastewater, which requires
neutralization treatment with carbon dioxide gas or chemicals.

2.12 Gas Business Act
The Gas Business Act regulates the city gas business, which supplies gas through pipelines, in orderto ensure safety and protect gas users. Because gas leaks and improper ventilation can lead to fatal
accidents, detailed regulations have been established regarding machines, appliances, and exhaust
ventilation used when gas is consumed.

2.13 Electricity Business Act
Electricity can cause fires, equipment accidents, and personal injury if handled improperly. For
example, electrical leakage can lead to serious disasters such as fire or electric shocks. The purpose of
the Electricity Business Act is to ensure public safety and protect the environment by establishingstandards for the proper and reasonable operation of the electricity business, protecting the interestsof electricity users and regulating the construction, maintenance, and operation of electric facilities. In
addition to the Electricity Business Act, laws and regulations concerning the safety of electricalfacilities include the Ministerial Order to Provide Technical Standards for Electrical Equipment24

(Technical Standards for Electrical Equipment), the Electrical Appliances and Materials Safety Act,
the Electricians Act, and the Act on Ensuring Fair Electric Business Practices (Electric Business Act).

2.14 Telecommunications Business Act
The Telecommunications Business Act regulates telecommunications businesses that provide
telecommunications services to subscribers by installing lines and other facilities. The
Telecommunications Business Act applies not only to wired communications that pass signals overmetal wires, but also to wireless communications and communications via optical fiber. Improper
construction when connecting telephones, computers, and other terminals to the telecommunicationlines of telecommunication carriers can cause communication line failures. Therefore, it is mandatorythat construction work be performed and supervised by koji tanninsha shikaku (licensed installation
technician).

2.15 Radio Act
The Radio Act is intended to promote public welfare by ensuring the fair and efficient use of radio
waves. A license is required for the use of transmitting equipment, depending on the output of theradio waves and the frequencies it uses. It is illegal to use a transceiver that requires a license withouta license. The use of transceivers made overseas is also illegal unless they are approved in Japan. It isnecessary to observe laws and regulations regarding radio waves at public construction sites and large
construction sites where transmitting equipment is used.

2.16 Civil Aeronautics Act
The Civil Aeronautics Act establishes methods to ensure the safety of aircraft navigation and theprevention of obstructions caused by aircraft navigation. Depending on the height of buildings and25

construction equipment such as cranes, they may interfere with the safe navigation of aircraft. Obstacle
lights must be installed on properties that are 60 meters or higher from the ground or water surface. In
addition to height, any property that may obstruct the approach to the airfield or seriously impair thesafety of aircraft navigation also requires the installation of obstacle lights.
Recently, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) have been used for surveying in construction projects.
Drones weighing 100 g or more are required to be registered as unmanned aircrafts. There are also
rules that must be observed regardless of the no-fly zone (no flying while intoxicated, no flying atnight, no flying out of sight, etc.).

2.17 Parking Lot Act
The Parking Lot Act is the law regarding the development of facilities for automobile parking incities. Its purpose is to facilitate road traffic, thereby contributing to public convenience andmaintaining and promoting the functions of the city by stipulating matters necessary for parking
facility and equipment. When undertaking parking lot construction, the local government must be
notified prior to the start of construction.

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Chapter 3: Construction Work Types and Operations
3.1 Construction Work Types
Construction work can be divided into three main types: civil engineering work, building work, andlifeline infrastructure/equipment installation.

3.1.1 Civil Engineering Work
Civil engineering work involves the natural environment, such as oceans, rivers, mountains, andforests. This work creates the infrastructure that supports our daily lives and economy, and includes
the following types of construction[Dam koji] (dam construction) Dams are built to regulate the amount of water flowing into rivers.
The two purposes of dams are chisui (flood control) and risui (water utilization). In flood control,
water is stored during heavy rains to adjust the amount of waterflowing into the river so that the river does not overflow and cause
flood damage. In terms of water utilization, it plays a role inregulating the amount of water available so as to ensure stablewater supply in agriculture and industry. Hydroelectric power
generation is also conducted at the same time. Japan is a country
with many rivers flowing from mountains. There are more thanDam

3,000 dams in Japan that are built for flood control and/or water
utilization. Dam construction is a large-scale project, and therefore, roads are built and the flow of theriver is changed before the construction of the actual dam begins. Also, a great number of large
construction equipment will be used.
[Kasen/kaigan koji] (river and coastal construction) Various types of construction work for rivers
and the sea. This important work protects people and property from disasters and includes constructionof breakwaters, tide walls, river revetments, levees, and waterways. The work also includes
27preservation and creation of river environments that consider local flora and fauna, in order to preserve
the natural environment.

Breakwater

Tide wall[Doro koji] (road construction) This is the construction ofroads for people and vehicles to pass through. Roads include
highways, national roads, prefectural roads, and municipal
roads. There are also agricultural and forestry roads. In
addition to paving the surface with asphalt or cement, a variety

Road constructionof specialized work is performed. Examples include
installation of signs and markings, installation of traffic signals and streetlights and the necessary
electrical work, landscaping to improve the scenery, brick and block work, construction of sidewalks,and drawing white lines on road surfaces. Currently, there is a lot of work being done to fix the oldroads.
[Tunnel koji] (tunnel boring) Tunnels are used in theconstruction of railroads, roads, waterways, and otherinfrastructure facilities. There are various types of tunnels andconstruction methods, and the construction method is selectedaccording to the geological conditions to be dug. There are
four types of tunneling methods: the mountain tunneling

28

Tunnel construction

method, open-cut method, the shield method, and the pipe-jacking method.
[Sangaku tunnel] (mountain tunneling method) Tunnels dug by excavating hard rock mainly inmountainous areas. The tunnel is excavated by blasting or tunnel boring machines, and a method called
NATM is used to support the tunnel by installing shotcrete, steel shoring, and rock bolts on the
excavated surface.

Rock bolt

Steel shoring
Shotcrete[Kaisaku tunnel] (the open-cut method) Method of excavating from the ground surface using earthretaining shoring to prevent the ground from collapsing. This is called kaisaku koho (the open-cut
method). The tunnel is constructed in the excavated space. In this method, the area outside the tunnel
is filled back again after tunnel construction.
[Shield tunnel] (the shield method) The shield method uses a tunneling machine, called a shieldmachine, which is specially designed for tunnel excavation. First, a shaft is constructed as a base forthe shield machine to dig the tunnel. The shield tunneling machine is then launched horizontally fromthe shaft, and while excavating, concrete or steel panels called segments are assembled at the rear of
the machine to build the tunnel. It can be used when digging soft ground, even if there is an existing
structure directly above it.
[Suishin tunnel] (the pipe-jacking method) Tunnels that are constructed by attaching a tunnelingmachine, a lead shield, or a cutting wheel to the end of a factory-manufactured jacking pipe between
the launching and receiving shafts, and then thrusting the jacking pipe into the ground from the29

launching shaft using the thrusting force from the jack. The jacking pipes used include concrete pipes,
ductile pipes, and steel pipes, and are mainly used for social infrastructure (sewage, water, electricity,communication, gas, etc.) in urban areas.
[Kyoryo koji] (bridgework) What provides passage across oceans and rivers are called kyoryo(bridges). Depending on the structure, there are girder bridges, truss bridges, arch bridges, rigid-frame
bridges, cable-stayed bridges, suspension bridges, and others. Construction is carried out in two major
processes: kabuko (the substructure construction) andjobuko(thesuperstructure

construction).

In

the

substructure construction, foundations are laid to support
the bridge. In the superstructure construction, the main
body of the bridge is constructed for vehicles and people

Bridgework

to cross. Methods include the bent method, the cableerection method, the incremental launching method, the traveler crane bent method, and the floating
crane method. The best construction method is selected for the work depending on the location where
the bridge is to be built.
[Kaiyo doboku koji] (marine civil engineering work) Construction of facilities such as ports andairports on oceans and rivers. This includes building port facilities such as quays where ships can dock,breakwaters to prevent waves, safe passage for ships, reclaimed land where factories and otherfacilities, as well as undersea tunnels, offshore bridges, and other structures such as offshore wind

Panoramic viewof the port

Breakwater
construction

30

power generation towers.
Because marine civil engineering work facilities andstructures are very large, construction is done with a large
machine called sagyosen (work vessels) that can dig theseafloor and lift heavy objects. Another feature of marine

Divercivil engineering work is the use of surveying equipment
to measure the shape of the seafloor and the use of sensuishi (divers), or people who can work
underwater in the sea.
[Tetsudo koji] (railroad construction] Construction work completed through the involvement ofalmost all specialized work related to construction, including not only civil engineering work but also
electrical work and building work.

[Josuido koji] (water and sewage works) These can be civilengineering works, water facility works, or sewer pipe works.
Civil engineering works here include site development work
for water treatment facilities and sewage treatment plants.

Sewage works[Saigai fukkyu koji] (disaster restoration work) Every
year in Japan, roads, rivers, and other civil engineering
facilities are damaged by typhoons, torrential rains,
earthquakes, and other natural disasters. This construction
work is to quickly restore damaged facilities. Various public
civil engineering facilities such as rivers, coasts, erosion
control facilities, roads, ports, water and sewage systems, etc.
are included.
31

Disasterrestoration work

[Sonota no doboku koji] (other civil engineering
works) Other works include airport construction, land
readjustment, agricultural civil engineering work, erosion
control, and forestry civil engineering work.

Airportconstruction

3.1.2 Building Work
Kenchiku koji (Construction work) is the process of creating buildings necessary for living,
including residential homes such as condominiums and houses, buildings, hospitals, schools, andrestaurants.
Buildings can be classified by structure as tekkin concrete zo (reinforced concrete), tekkotsu zo(steel-frame), tekkotsu tekkin concrete zo (reinforced steel frame concrete construction), moku zo(wooden-frame), concrete block-zo (concrete block), etc.
Reinforced concrete buildings are constructed by pouring concrete into a reinforcing steel formwork.
A steel-frame building is of a structure that uses steel sections as columns and beams. The difference
between the two is that one uses rebars while the other uses steel sections, and the structure that uses
both is a called a reinforced steel frame concrete construction. Reinforcing bars are assembled aroundthe steel sections, and concrete is poured to create the building. Wooden-frame structure is a structureoften used in general housing, and refers to building structures that use wood for columns and beams.
In a concrete block structure, concrete blocks are piled up while reinforcing steel bars are passed
through the cavities in the blocks and reinforced with mortar and other materials.
Relatively large scale construction projects such as buildings, condominiums, etc. are carried out inthe following sequence.
[Junbi koji] (preparation work) Enclosure is erected around the site where the building is to beconstructed, and temporary construction offices and rest areas for construction workers are built. In
32

addition, electrical and plumbing work for the construction will be conducted.
The site where the building is to be constructed is subjected to a ground survey (boring survey) toinvestigate the layer that will support the piles (bearing layer). Trial digging is also conducted todetermine if there are any underground obstructions or archaeological sites.
[Yamadome koji] (soil retaining structure work) The
process of preventing soil walls from collapsing as a result of
excavation work is called yamadome. A temporary wall isbuilt underground to shore the wall so that it will not collapse
Soil retaining
structure work

(called shihoko (shoring)).
[Kui koji] (piling work) Piles are embedded in the ground tosupport the building. The tip of the pile should reach the bearing layer in the ground. There are two
types of piling methods: bashouchi concrete kui (cast-in-situ concrete piles) are made on site, and kiseikui (precast piles) are factory-made and delivered to the site.
[Do koji] (earthwork) Excavation of the ground to build
structures below ground level. Construction equipment suchas backhoes and clamshells are used for excavation. Zando(surplus soil from excavation) is removed by dump trucks orother means. It will also be necessary to pump out the water

Loading earth and sand using a backhoethat comes out during the excavation.
[Chika kutai koji] (underground frame construction]
The structural part of a building consisting of foundation,columns, beams, walls, floors, etc. is called kutai (theframe). After completion of the earthwork, the undergroundframe will be constructed. From here on, various specialty
contractors come and go. For example, there is rebar work
33

Underground frame
construction

to support the frame, rebar splicing work such as pressure welding to connect the rebars, building
formwork into which concrete is poured, concrete pumping work to pour concrete into the formwork,and various types of equipment installation work. Cooperation among contractors is important toensure that construction proceeds as planned.
[Chijo kutai koji] (above-ground frame construction] The construction of a large building involves
the use of heavy-gauge steel sections. This construction iscalled tekkotsu koji (steel framing work). A mobile crane isused to lift the steel section, position it, and bolt it in place.
Generally, after the construction of columns, beams, andfloors for three floors is completed (the section directly above
the foundation), the construction of the upper floors will

Above-groundstructural
construction

proceed after the concrete pouring is completed. Tower cranes are used to hoist steel sections to theupper floors.
[Nai/gaiso shiage koji] (interior and exterior finishing work] When the frame construction isfinished, the building's exterior work begins. Interior and exterior work involves many specialty
projects, including waterproofing, sheet metal, roofing, tiles, curtain walling, plastering, painting, andfixtures. To make the building look beautiful, masonry work is also done using marble, granite, andother stone materials.
Exterior work

Interior work

34

[Taishin koji] (seismic work) Seismic work makes buildings more resistant to earthquake shaking,thereby preventing them from collapsing. According to the Building Standards Act, a building must
be able to maintain its functionality in the event of an earthquake of intensity 5 or similar, and musthave a structure that does not collapse in the event of a large-scale earthquake of intensity upper 6 to
7. Seismic work includes improving seismic resistance, vibration control, and seismic isolation.
- Seismic resistance work: pillars and beams are solidly built to withstand large earthquakes.
- Vibration-control work: energy-absorbing mechanisms such as dampers are installed in buildings tocontrol the vibration.
- Seismic isolation work: seismic isolation devices such as isolators and dampers are installed in thefoundation to reduce the transmission of earthquake energy to the building.

Seismic isolation
deviceBuilding after vibration
control construction[Iji/hozen/kaishu koji] (maintenance/preservation/renovation work) To keep completed buildings
in good condition for a long time, it is important to create a maintenance and preservation plan andconduct renovation work accordingly. For example, the following renovation work will be performed.
- Exterior: cleaning of exterior walls, resealing, exterior design changes, waterproofing retrofitting,etc.
- Interior: barrier-free, conversion , treatment work for building materials including asbestos, layoutchanges, etc.
Conversion: taking an existing structure and redesigning the interior for a new use.
35

Asbestos: a material used in the past for fireproofing, thermal insulation, and fire prevention. Its use
is now prohibited due to its health hazard.
- Facilities: replacement of lighting fixtures (LED, etc.), renewal of air conditioning equipment,
renewal of water supply and drainage equipment, renewal of sanitation equipment, etc.
When installing or replacing equipment on a concrete frame, anchors must be embedded into theframe for anchorage. These anchors are called atoseko anchor (post construction anchors). There are
two types of anchors: metallic and adhesive.

3.1.3 Lifeline Infrastructure/Equipment Installation(1) Lifeline infrastructure work
Facilities indispensable for daily life, such as electricity, gas, and water, are called lifeline (lifeline
infrastructure). In today's information society, communication facilities such as telephones and theInternet can also be considered lifeline infrastructure.
[Denki koji] (electrical work) Electricity produced at power plants is sent into buildings via
transmission lines from transformer facilities at substations through poles or underground. Electricity
sent into the building goes through the distribution board and is supplied to various locations in thebuilding. This is achieved through electrical work. An accident unique to electrical work is kanden
jiko (electric shock accidents). To prevent electric shock accidents, it is necessary to communicate theon and off status of power before work is performed, and that safety checks, such as voltage checks ofthe charging section, are performed before commencing work.

36

[Toshi gas koji] (city gas work) Liquid natural gas transported by large tankers is placed in storage
tanks. Gas in storage tanks passes through gas pipes buried underground, vaporized and odorized along
the way, before being stored in spherical tanks called gas holders. Gas stored in gas holders is delivered,with adjusted pressure, to factories, various facilities, and homes through pipes. City gas work mainly
involves the construction of pipelines through which gas passes and the installation of equipment for
gas use.
City Gas Supply Mechanism
Pressureadjustment

LNG (liquefied natural gas) carriers

Gas holder

Pressureadjustment

Vaporization andodorization

Storage tank[Josuido

koji](waterworks/sewage

High-pressure
conduitwork)

Intermediatepressure
conduitLowpressure
conduitInwaterworks, water taken from rivers and other sources is

Sewage works

turned into clean water at water treatment plants and stored
in clean water reservoirs and distribution reservoirs. Water
drawn from groundwater is disinfected before being cleanwater reservoirs and distribution reservoirs. Water from the
distribution reservoir is delivered to all parts of the water supply area via water mains buried
underground. Holes are born into the water mains, from which the water service lines are branchedand connected to the home or building interior. Waterworks involve burying water mains and pulling
service lines into the building. In sewage work, sewage used in buildings is collected in sewer mains,turned into clean water at sewage treatment plants, and discharged into rivers or seas. In areas where
there are no sewer mains, sewage is treated at a sewage treatment facility and the resulting clean water
is discharged into rivers or seas.
37

[Denki tsushin koji] (telecommunications work) This work involves the construction of networks
for conveying and using information, primarily telephone construction and the Internet. There are two
types of information transmission methods: wired and wireless. Facilities for wired signaling from thetelecommunication buildings creating the telecommunication network to users, such as households,
are called access setsubi (access facility). Communication cables are used for wired transmitting of
signals. Cables for telecommunication facilities include metal and fiber-optic cables. Recently, fiberoptic cables are more widely used. Telecommunications work also includes telecommunications civilengineering work, which is the construction of conduits for communication cables, manholes,
handholes, and cable tunnels (for communication cables). This work will also involve excavation using
construction equipment.
In addition, in order for users to utilize network services such as the Internet and information
infrastructure, it is necessary to construct electric power facilities for communication to realize
uninterrupted power supply, switching equipment to connect to communication destinations,transmission equipment for high-capacity communication, and wireless equipment for satellite andmobile communication. LAN and other construction work will also be performed inside the building.
(2) Equipment Installation
After the frame construction is completed, various work on equipment and facilities takes place tomake the building a place of living for people, including interior and exterior work. Equipment
installation includes electric equipment that supplies power to lighting, electrical appliances, ITequipment, and electric motors, as well as to disaster prevention equipment and other items necessary
for human life; air conditioning equipment that makes
rooms comfortable; and water supply, drainage, andsanitation facilities to maintain a healthy and hygienic
lifestyle for people. As with the frame construction,
many specialty contractors come in and out of the38

Cooling water
circulator

construction site to complete the building.

[Reito kucho setsubi koji] (refrigeration and air conditioning installation) Installation ofequipment that adjusts temperature and humidity and cleans the air for comfort.

[Kyuhaisui eisei setsubi koji] (water supply, drainage, andsanitation facilities installation) Installation of facilities necessary tomaintain a hygienic and clean living environment using water and hot
water. Installation includes piping for water supply, drainage, gas, etc.,
and fixtures to supply cold and hot water, etc.

Water feedingpump[Ho’on/horei koji] (heat/cold insulation work) Work related to piping and equipment that requires
heat insulation, thermal insulation, cold insulation, and dew-proofing.

Heat/cold
insulation work

39

Heat/cold
insulation work

【Shobo setsubi koji】(fire fighting equipment installation) Installation of equipment to protect
people and buildings from fire. For example, installation of kasai jushinki (fire alarm receivers) thatreceive signals from detectors and transmitters installed in the building and notify the building itself
and the fire department of the occurrence of fire, installation of sprinklers that automatically spraywater when sensing heat from a fire, and installation of shoka pump (fire pumps) to supply water
during fire fighting activities.
Fire pump

Sprinkler

Fire alarm
receiver3.2 Major Specialized Works
3.2.1 Earthwork
Civil engineering work at the sites include excavation of land;

Hydraulic excavatorloading, hauling and filling of earth and sand; backfilling;
compaction; pushing and grading. If a machine such as a hydraulicexcavator cannot be used to perform these tasks, the work is done by
hand.

This man-powered work is called doko (earthwork).

Earthwork includes the following tasks[Kussaku sagyo] (excavation work) The process of digging out and removing earth, sand, and rocks
is called kussaku sagyo. Explosives are sometimes used to destroy rocks and other materials, and thisis called happa (blasting). The foundation of the building is buried under the ground. Digging the
ground for this purpose is called negiri.
40[Dosha no tsumikomi/unpan sagyo] (loading and hauling earth and sand) When excavators anddump trucks cannot be used to load and haul earth and sand, the work is done by hand.
[Morido/kirido sagyo] (embankment and cutting soil) Morido (filling) is the process of levelingslopes and uneven land by heaping up soil. Cutting and leveling the ground is called kirido (cuttingsoil).
[Umemodoshi sagyo] (backfilling) The process of filling in the structure and the extra space createdaround it with soil after excavation of the ground and construction of the basement or foundation iscompleted.
[Shimekatame sagyo] (compaction work) The processof reducing the amount of space between earth and sandby tamping or vibrating the ground to prevent it fromsettling.
[Suichu pump no secchi to haisui] (installation andCompaction by hand guided rollers

drainage of submersible pumps) On sites where a lot ofwater comes out, submersible pumps or similar devices are installed to pump out the water.
[Norimen no tofu/uetsuke sagyo] (slope surface application and planting work)
Mortar is sprayed and applied to the slope to prevent the slope from collapsing. There is also amethod of planting the entire slope surface with mats embedded with seeds, fertilizers, and bed
material for plants.

41

3.2.2 The Pipe-Jacking Tunneling Method
The pipe-jacking tunneling is the same type of construction method as the shield method in that it
uses tunneling machines to excavate tunnels. When the tunneling machine is ready, it is launched fromthe pre-built launching shaft to start excavating the tunnel. In the pipe-jacking method, factory-madepipes are connected to the tunneling machine and pushed into the ground by jacks installed in the
launching shaft. This process is repeated to build the tunnel.
Railroad track/Train

Road

River

Jackingpipe
Tunneling

JackJackingpipe

Receiving shaft

Jacking Jacking
pipe
pipe
Launching shaft

3.2.3 Marine Civil Engineering Work
The following are typical examples of marine civil engineering projects that involve theconstruction of port facilities and offshore structures.
[Shunsetsu koji] (dredging work)
The process of removing sedimentfrom the bottom of an ocean or river.
The work involves the use of work
vessels called shunsetsusen (dredgers)

Sand
carrier

to construct a safe passage for ships
through which they can pass without
hitting the seabed, and safe places in harbors for ships to dock.

42

Grab dredger

[Umetate koji] (reclamation work) The process of collecting earth and sand to create new land.
During construction, sediment removed by dredging is transported by boat or machine to thereclamation site and placed in the sea to construct the site.
[Ganpeki koji] (quay construction) Ganpeki (quay) is a facility in a port where ships stop to load
and unload cargo. Quay construction is done by building walls with steel sheet piles to keep sedimentfrom collapsing into the sea and piles to build pillars to support the structure.
[Bohatei koji] (breakwater construction) Bohatei(breakwater) is a facility that prevents waves fromentering a harbor so that ships can safely stop, load,
and unload their cargo. In breakwater construction,stones are placed on the seabed to flatten it out, abox made of concrete called a caisson is placed on

Breakwater
construction

top, and earth and sand are placed inside the caisson
to stabilize it.

3.2.4 Well Drilling Work
The process of digging the ground to create a well is called sakui koji (well drilling). There areseveral types of well construction work.
[Suigensei koji] (water source well work) Work to access and pump up groundwater. A special
machine called a boring machine is used to excavate down to underground water veins. Before
construction of a well, it is important to investigate not only the quality of the water, but also theimpact of the well on the surrounding area where the water is used.
[Kansokusei koji] (observation well work) Kansokui (observation wells) are used to determine thestate of geological formations. For example, there are observation wells to determine the status ofground subsidence. Ground subsidence is measured by burying iron tubes into the hard strata and43

observing the top of the tubes.
[Onsensei koji] (hot spring well work) Work to access and pump up hot spring water. The well is
dug to approximately 500-1000 meters. Some permits are required for hot spring well work because
natural gas can be released during the drilling process, which can lead to disaster.
[Chinetsusei koji] (geothermal well work) Work to drill wells for geothermal power generation. The
wells are approximately 2,000 m deep and require a higher level of technology than other well drilling
projects because of the potential for hot water, steam, and hazardous substances to be released.

3.2.5 Wellpointing
When excavating below the water table for construction of building foundations, underground pipes,
or burying septic tanks, it is necessary to pump up and drain groundwater. Wellpointing is one of themethods used for dewatering. A series of wellpoints, or collection pipes connected to the header pipe,
are driven into the ground to pump up groundwater using vacuum pumps. The pumped up groundwater
up is drained through discharge pipes. The maximum depth possible for wellpointing is about 10
meters, and for deeper groundwater, a different method called deep well is used.
Wellpointing not only allows construction without water (called dry work), but also stabilizes
weaker grounds. This method has many advantages in terms of economy, stability, and efficiency.

Separator tank
Notch tank

Header pipe

Wellpoint44

3.2.6 Paving Work
Hoso koji (paving) is the process of laying asphalt or concrete on a road. This work is important toensure that people and vehicles can use the road safely. Pavement also serves to improve landscaping.
After surveying the site, the following work is performed.
[Rosho koji] (subgrade layer work) Paved roads have several layers beneath the surface layer ofasphalt or concrete. Rosho (subgrade layer) is the lowest layer that receives all the weight. Afterdigging down to about 1 meter using heavy machinery, sand is spread evenly at the bottom.
[Roban koji] (aggregate base layer work) The layer above the subgrade layer is called roban(aggregate base layer)t. Crushed stone or other material is placed on top of the subgrade layer to create
two layers. A heavy machinery called a roller is used to compact the material.
[Kiso koji] (foundation layer work) The asphalt is laid andAsphalt finisher

evened out over the aggregate base layer using a machinecalled an asphalt finisher. After the layer is laid and evened
out, rollers are used again for compaction.
[Hyoso koji] (surface layer work) Finally, durable, waterresistant and non-slip asphalt is laid and compacted.

3.2.7 Mechanical Earthwork
The earthwork described in 3.2.1 conducted by machinery is called kikai doko (mechanicalearthwork). To drive and operate the machine, the operator must complete the prescribed skill training
courses and safety training.
[Kussaku sagyo] (excavation work) Excavation using hydraulic excavators. If there are large rocks
or boulders, rock drills are used.
[Oshido/tsumikomi/unpan sagyo] (dozing/loading/transporting work) Oshido (dozing) means topush earth and sand using bulldozers and other machinery for transport. Wheel loaders and hydraulic45excavators are used to load dump trucks.
Loading

Excavation[Morido/shimekatame] (embankment/compaction) Plains are raised by piling soil and compacting
it using bulldozers. Slope surfaces are shaped by attaching a slope bucket to a hydraulic excavator.
Rollers dedicated to compaction and other machines are also used.

Embankment

Slope shaping

3.2.8 Piling Work
Piling work is the use of concrete or steel pipe piles to build a foundation that supports a building
or structure. Foundation piling work is performed for high-risebuildings and large structures such as bridges. Foundation piling isa method used primarily as a foundation for structures built on soft
ground. By inserting the circular columns into the hard strata,
structures can be built even on soft land. Because it improves the
durability of structures, it is often used to build heavy structures inJapan, where the ground is often soft and disasters such as
Piling work

earthquakes and typhoons are frequent.
46

Pile materials include wood, steel, and concrete.
There are two main methods.
[Kisei kui koho] (precast piling method) The piles are fabricated in a factory, transported to theconstruction site, and driven into the ground. There are two methods of construction: driving them inwith a pile driver and embedding piles. Because methods using pile drivers generate large noise andvibration, embedding methods are used in some construction sites.
[Bashouchi kui koho] (cast-in-situ concrete piling method) This method makes piles at theconstruction site. A hole is dug for the pile, a cylindrical cage made of reinforced steel is placed in thehole, and fresh concrete is added to create the pile.

3.2.9 Scaffolding WorkIn the olden days in Japan (Edo period), when a fire broke out, there were craftsmen who would
destroy houses to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring houses. Because the work is done athigh places, it was called tobi-shoku, using the Chinese character for tobi (black kite), which is a bird.
When building, work must be done at high places, which is where tobi-shoku (steeplejacks) come intoplay. For example, when painting, construction cannot proceed without scaffolding for the work. The
tobi that builds this scaffold is called ashiba-tobi. In addition to this, there are the following types oftobi jobs[Tekkotsu-tobi] (steel frame steeplejack) Uses steel
sections to assemble the framework of high-risebuildings and condominiums. Steel sections are lifted by
crane and bolted together.
[Kyoryo-tobi] (bridge frame steeplejack) Assembles
steel sections for bridges, dams, steel towers, andhighways.
47

Tekkotsutobi

[Juryo-tobi] (heavy-duty steeplejack) Carries and installs machinery and equipment weighing
several hundred tons.
[Soden-tobi] (power line steeplejack] Engages in electrical work at heights, such as pulling powerlines from steel towers, and inspecting and maintaining power lines.
[Machiba-tobi] (local building steeplejack) Machiba-tobi builds scaffolding for local buildings,
especially houses and condominiums.

3.2.10 Steel Framing Work
Steel framing work is the process of assembling theframework of a building, such as columns and beams, using
steel sections. Steel sections are broadly classified into thefollowing categories based on the shape of their cross-sections.

Steel Framing
Work

Types of steel sections

H-beamI-beamAngle

ChannelSquare bar

Round bar

Categorization by thickness is keiryo tekkotsu (light steel sections), which use steel materials lessthan 6 mm thick, and juryo tekkotsu (heavy steel sections), which use steel materials 6 mm or thicker.

48

Structures made of steel sections include braced, rigid-frame, and truss structures. Braced structures
are reinforced by placing braces between columns. In a rigid-frame structure, steel columns and beams
are joined to each other at the joints by a method called
gosetsugo (rigid joints). It has excellent earthquake resistance

Safety gear for
steel framing
work

and provides more open space on the inside of the building.
Truss structures are based on triangle shapes and are used inroofs, domes, and bridges.
There are two types of steel framing methods: tatenige
hoshiki (build-away method) and suihei tsumiage hoshiki(horizontal stacking method). Tatenige hoshiki uses a mobile crane to assemble the building from theback of the lot toward the front. Suihei tsumiage hoshiki uses a tower crane to assemble one floor at atime. This method is used for building skyscrapers.

3.2.11 Steel Reinforcement Work (Rebar Work)
Concrete-covered structures, such as buildings andRebarsbridges, use steel bars as a framework, although they are
not visible from the outside. Reinforcing steel bars are used
to build this framework. This process is called tekkin seko
(rebar installation). In human terms, the reinforcing steel isthe bone and the concrete covering the reinforcing steel is

Rebar processingplant

the muscle. Rebar is cut and bent at the processing plant
and transported to the construction site for assembly. When
constructing a building, the first step is to build a concrete
foundation. Reinforcing steel bars are always used in thesefoundations. Once the foundation is built, the framework construction follows, including columns,
49

walls, beams, and floors, in which reinforcing bars are alsoused.
After the rebar work is completed, katawaku koji
(formwork carpentry) is conducted to build forms forpouring concrete around the rebar. The person who does

Rebar bending

this work is called katawaku daiku (formwork carpenter).
Thus, it is important to work with technicians in other job
categories, such as formwork carpentry and rebar splicing
work, in the rebar installation process.
Rebar work

3.2.12 Rebar Splicing Work
Rebars are made in standard lengths of 12 m or less. If 12 m is not long enough, two rebars arejoined together to make one long rebar. This construction is called tekkin tsugite koji (rebar splicingwork). Since the strength of the joints between the two rebars affects the strength of the entire building,a high level of technical skill is required for joint splicing. There are several types of splicing methods,
as follows.
[Gas assetsu tsugite] (gas pressure welded splice) A
method of splicing rebars by heating the joint between thetwo rebars and applying pressure in the axial direction. The

Gas pressure welded
splicejoints are heated by a flame with oxygen and acetylene gasor oxygen and natural gas. The gas pressure welded splice isthe most commonly used method.
[Yosetsu tsugite] (welded splice) A method using arc
welding to join the welding faces of rebars. This method is50

Welded spliceused for rebars with large diameters, precast concrete columns, beam main bars, and sakigumi tekkin(preassembled rebars) that cannot be pressure welded.
[Kikai-shiki tsugite] (mechanical splice) A method of joining threaded steel bars using a part calleda coupler.
[Kasane tsugite] (rebar lapping) A method used with thin rebars. The portion where the rebars
overlap each other (the joint portion) is joined as one by some method, such as arc welding. Where
the reinforcing bars intersect in slabs, the rebar lapping method is used, after which they are joined
together by concrete.

Mechanical splice

Rebar lapping

3.2.13 Welding Work
Welding is the joining of two or more members byapplying heat and/or pressure. Technicians who weld arealso called kaji-ko.
Welding work is conducted at various construction sites
to weld steel materials. Examples include welding for rebar

Arc welding work

splicing, welding of rebar cages for piles in piling work,
welding of steel sections for building frames, and welding of sheet piles (steel plates) in soil retaining
structure work. It is more airtight and lighter than joining with screws or bolts. There are many welding
methods, but the three main types are fusion welding, pressure welding, and soldering.
[Yusetsu] (fusion welding) The most common welding method. There are two methods of welding:51

one is to melt the base metal (the material to be welded) and the other is to melt the welding rod andthe base metal. Welding methods include arc welding, gas welding, laser welding, and beam welding.
The process takes little time because of the small number of steps required, and even large base metalparts can be welded, but the disadvantage is that quality varies depending on the skill of the technician.
[Assetsu] (pressure welding) A welding method in which heat and pressure are applied to the surfacesof the base metals to be joined. It is also called koso setsugo (solid-state bonding) because the welding
is done without melting the base metal to the point it becomes liquid. There are several methods ofpressure welding, but gas pressure welding is often used to connect rebar to rebar at construction sites.
[Rosetsu] (soldering) A welding method in which a filler that has a lower melting temperature thanthe base metal is melted to act as an adhesive to join the materials.

3.2.14 Formwork Carpentry
A building covered with concrete is created by pouring concrete into a form. This form is calledkatawaku (formwork). Katawaku koji (formwork
carpentry) is the process of building the formworkthat cover the reinforcing steel bars installed byrebar work. The person who does this work iscalled katawaku daiku (formwork carpenter). In

Formworkcarpentry

Japan, a craftsman who builds wooden buildings is called daiku. The word daiku (carpenter) is used
for the formwork because it is made by working wood, just as in wooden buildings.
Since concrete is poured into the formwork, the formwork is subjected to great pressure from theinside. If the formwork cannot withstand this pressure, it will break and the concrete will leak out. To
prevent this, the formwork must be adequately supported and reinforced from the outside. For
reinforcement, steel tubes are used. Reinforcing the formwork with steel tubes is called shihoko(shoring).
52

Although the formwork is removed when the building is completed, it is an important part of thework, creating the shape of the building.
High processing skill is required toaccurately create formwork that matches
Formworkplan

the complex shapes of buildings. In
addition, the ability to read drawings calledkakozu (formwork plans) is required to build the formwork.

Once the concrete has been poured, the formwork is no longer needed. It is also the formwork
carpenter's job to remove the formwork after confirming the prescribed strength. In the constructionof buildings and condominiums, dismantled formwork is reused on upper floors.

3.2.15 Concrete Pumping Work
Once the formwork is completed, concrete is poured

Concrete pump truck(called dasetsu (placed)) into it. In the old days, dokosagyo (earthwork) involved making concrete on site bymixing cement and aggregate on site, and the concrete
was carried in neko, or a wheelbarrow, poured into theformwork, and poked with a poking stick to remove air
bubbles inside. Today, quality-controlled concrete (called
ready-mixed concrete or nama-con) is delivered to theconstruction site by a concrete agitator truck (nama-con
truck) and transferred to pump trucks. Fresh concrete is
pumped into the formwork using hydraulic or mechanicalpressure by means of concrete pumps. This is called
concrete asso (concrete pumping).
53

Neko (wheelbarrow)During the placement process, air bubbles end up in the concrete. Vibrators are used to vibrate theall the concrete in the formwork from corner to corner in order to remove unwanted air in order toprevent deterioration of concrete strength. This process is called shimekatame (compaction). Freshconcrete hardens over time, so it must be worked efficiently. For this purpose, teamwork among three
persons is important: the concrete pump sosa operator(the operator), tsutsusaki sagyoin (the hose operator)
who controls the end of the concrete pump hose, anddoko sagyoin (the earthworker) who performs theConcrete Placement Work

compaction.

3.2.16 Painting Work
Painting work is a process used to protect and improve the durability and aesthetics of a building's
roof and walls. A high level of knowledge about paints is necessary in order to properly choose
different paints depending on the surface material to be painted.
Methods of applying paint to the surface material include the following.
[Hake nuri] (brush painting) A painting method that uses hake (brush) to apply the paint. Different
types of brushes are used depending on the area to beExterior painting witha rollerpainted.
[Roller nuri] (roller painting) A painting method thatuses a roller brush. It is suitable for painting large surfaces,such as exterior walls, because it can paint large surfaces
efficiently. In terms of finish quality, brush painting is
superior.

54

[Air spray toso] (air spray painting) A method in which
paint is sprayed onto the surface in the form of a mist. Air
compressed by an air compressor is mixed with liquid andsprayed using an air spray gun.
Air spray painting

3.2.17 Landscaping WorkIn Japan, teien (gardens) have long been enjoyed as a practice of recreating and appreciating naturallandscapes in gardens. Zoen is the process of creating landscape using various types of trees, plants,
and stones. Landscaping requires not only knowledge of construction, but also knowledge of thecharacteristics of trees and plants. It also requires an aesthetic sense for balanced placement of trees
and stones. Landscaping includes the following types of work.
[Shokusai koji] (planting work) Planting trees and plants on the grounds around the building (called
gaiko).
[Okujo ryokka koji] (rooftop greening work) The greening of building rooftops and walls.
[Hiroba koji] (park work) The construction project to create parks with lawns or athletic fields.
[Koen setsubi koji] (park facility installation) Building flower beds, rest areas, fountains, andwalking paths in the park.
[Ryokuchi ikusei koji] (green space cultivation work) Work to improve soil, installing supports fortrees, etc. in order to cultivate trees, lawns and floriculture.
Pruning of black pineLawnmaintenance55

3.2.18 Plastering Work
Sakan koji (plastering work) is the process of applying

Trowels dedicated for inside andoutside corners

various types of finishing materials using a tool called
kote (trowel) after the building is completed. It is similar
to painting work, but the tools used are different. It isalso a job category with many jargons that have beenused for a long time.
Materials used include wall clay, mortar, Japanese plaster, normal plaster, and fibers. In particular,
wall clay and Japanese plaster are materials that have been used in Japan since the old times. Because
plastering is often done on the exterior walls and interiors of buildings, workmanship is especially
important, and therefore requires a high level of skill fora beautiful finish. In recent years, it has become an artistic

Example of aJapanese plaster wall

profession that incorporates different methods of surface
finishing. Fukitsuke koji (spray-on work), in which thetraditional plastering process is replaced by machines, is
now also performed. Also, finishing work called togidashi(polished aggregate finish) and araidashi (exposed aggregate finish) in which aggregate is exposed on
the surface.
[Togidashi koji] (polished aggregate finish) Finishing work thatpolishes and flattens the surface of the stone to bring out its luster.
[Araidashi koji] (exposed aggregate finish) Finishing work that
exposes small stones called taneishi on the surface. After mixing
and kneading taneishi into the cement, lime, and other materials,
the mixture is spread onto the construction surface. Then, hake orbrush is used to wash away the mortar on the surface.
56

Example of
exposed aggregate
finish3.2.19 Carpentry Work
Since ancient times, many wooden buildings such as temples, shrines, and houses have been
constructed in Japan. The job of kenchiku daiku (carpenter) is to build these wooden buildings. In theconstruction of houses, small companies called
Traditional Japanesetimber framing

komuten are often contracted to take on the entire
work from design to lumber processing,construction, and construction management. The
expertise required depends on the type ofbuilding, and there are many jobs where the word
daiku (carpenter) is used, such as those listed below.

[Machi daiku] (town carpenter) The most common carpenter, also known as kaoku daiku (house
carpenter). A carpenter who works on wooden houses. When uttering the word daiku-san, mostJapanese people think of machi daiku.
[Zosaku daiku] (joinery carpenter) After the building structure is complete, this carpenter decorates
the interior with doors, shoji screens, fusuma (sliding doors), and other interior decorations.
[Miya daiku] (shrine and temple carpenter) A carpenter who builds or repairs temples, shrines, andother structures. To make a building that can withstand wind and rain for hundreds of years, knowledgeof wood and advanced techniques for connecting wood to wood are required.
[Katawaku daiku] (formwork carpentry)→ See 3.2.14.

3.2.20 Roofing Work
Many Japanese houses use a roofing material called kawara. Roofing with kawara is called kawarabuki. Kawara are tiles made of clay, shaped and fired in a kiln. Roofing materials can also be metal
shingles and of other materials. Regardless of which material is used, knowledge and techniques onwork to prevent rainwater from entering the building (called amajimai) are required. In addition,
57

because the work will be performed on a slope, the construction of scaffolds with good workability
and practicing of safe conduct to prevent falls are also required. Roofing work is not only roofing, butalso includes the following work.
[Yane fukikae koji] (re-roofing work) Work to remove existing roofing materials and tarps, andreplace them with new roofing materials.
[Yane kasanebuki koji] (roof overlaying work) New
roofing materials are applied on top of the existing roof.
[Shikkui hoshu koji] (Japanese plaster repair work)
Material called shikkui (Japanese plaster) is used toprotect exposed areas of soil used to tile the roof. WhenJapanese plaster repair
work

Japanese plaster cracks or collapses due to typhoons or
heavy rains, roof leaks can occur, damaging the building.

Gutters in need of repair

Japanese plaster repair work must be periodicallyconducted.
[Amadoi kokan koji] (gutter replacement work)
Replacement of broken gutters.
[Yane toso koji] (roof painting work) Painting on the roof. This is done when the existing roofing
material has lost its waterproofing function.

3.2.21 Architectural Sheet Metal Work
Kenchiku bankin koji (architectural sheet metal work)
refers to the processing of metal sheets to make metal
products needed for buildings and installing them inbuildings. Metal sheets are usually thin. They areprocessed by cutting, bending, forming, and joining. The
58

Bending processfollowing work is performed in architectural sheet metal work.
[Yane koji] (roofing work) The process of attaching a
Metal roof

roof to a building is called yane wo fuku. There arevarious types of roofing materials including kawara, butroofing work using sheet metal in particular is done byarchitectural sheet metal workers. In addition, rainwatermust be drained systematically to protect the building
from rainwater that falls from the roof. This is called amajimai (rain-proofing). The fabrication andinstallation of the hardware necessary for rain-proofing is also a part of architectural sheet metal work.
[Duct koji] (duct work) Pipes that carry air are called ducts. Ducts, also called airways, include smoke
exhaust ducts that carry smoke outside in the event of afire, air conditioning ducts that carry cold, warm, andfresh outside air to the inside, and exhaust ducts thatexhaust heat and odors generated in machinery rooms,
electrical rooms, and lavatories to the outside. In duct

Exhaust ducts for private power
generation equipment

work, sheet metal is processed to match the installation
location, and installation work is performed.
[Gaiheki koji] (exterior wall work) Wall materials such as siding and corrugated sheets are used toconstruct the exterior walls of buildings.
[Kanban/kanamono] (signboards/hardware) Architectural sheet metal work also includes theprocessing and installation of signboards as well as hardware used in various locations. Hardware usedin visible locations must be not only precise but also beautiful.

59

3.2.22 Tiling Work
Tile bari koji (tiling work) is the process of installing tiles on walls and floors. Tiling a building can
give it a beautiful exterior. Tiles also serve to protect the building and increase its durability. Fallingtiles from a building can cause fatal accidents, so installation knowledge and skills are required not
only to finish the tiles beautifully but also toprevent them from falling off.
Tiling work often involves other job categories.
Tiling work around the installation sites for thewater supply and drainage systems and embedded
electrical fixtures must consider piping and

Tiling work

electrical work. For example, if tiled without
considering the pipe outlets, further pipe work cannot be performed. In addition, toriai (the line where
different structures meet) with sashes, etc., around openings must be considered.

3.2.23 Interior Finish Work
The interior work of a building is called naiso shiage koji
(interior finish work). Interior finish work includes thefollowing types of work.
[Koseishitajikoji](steelstud

framingwork)

Construction of the framework for walls and ceilings using

Steel stud framingwork

materials calledLGS (Light Gauge Steel or Light Gauge
Stud). The construction of this framework is also called keiten koji. LGS is sometimes referred to as
studs.

60

[Board hari] (boarding) Plasterboard is applied over the
steel stud frame. To make the grooves between theplasterboards less noticeable when wallpaper is hung overthe plasterboards, the grooves are smoothed out with

Boarding

putty.
[Cloth bari] (wallpapering) Hanging wallpaper, the wall finishing material, over the plasterboard
base.
[Toso shiage] (paint finish) Instead of wallpaper, paint is used to finish the work.
[Yuka shiage] (floor finishing) Work to lay tiles, carpets, tatami mats, etc. on the floor.
[Curtain koji] (curtain work) Work to cut and sew the fabric to make curtains and hang them. This
also includes work on curtains (large curtains) used on stages and other venues.
[Yuka shiage (enka vinyl tile)] (floor finishing (vinyl chloride tile)) Processing materials to matchthe shape of the floor.

PVC tile finish on the floor

3.2.24. Interior Finishing Work
The interior finishing work on buildings described in 3.2.23, excluding steel stud framing andboarding, is called hyoso koji (surface work). It mainly refers to finishing walls, ceilings, and floors.
Depending on the materials used, there are a variety of finishing methods.
[Kabe shiage (wallpaper)] (wall finish (wallpaper)) Hanging wallpaper over plasterboards. The
grooves between the plasterboards are filled in with putty and smoothed out so that the wallpaper will61

not appear uneven.

Wallpaper finish[Tenjo shiage (wallpaper)] (ceiling finishing (wallpaper) Work must be done always facing up, andthe skill to spread and hang the wallpaper straight without bending is necessary.

Ceiling wallpaper finish

3.2.25 Fittings Work
Buildings have many openings. Tategu (fittings) are doors, windows, fusuma (sliding doors), shoji(paper sliding doors), etc. that fit the openings in the buildings, and the frames used to attach them.
Fittings

include

wood,

sash

and

other

aluminum, plastic, steel, and stainless steel
fittings. Tategu koji (fittings work) is theinstallation of factory-made fittings on site.
Fittings work includes shutter installation andFittings work

automatic door installation.

62

3.2.26 Sash Setting WorkOf the fittings work, the installation of metal fittings is called sash koji (sash setting work). This
includes not only aluminum sashes for windows, but also installation of metal fixtures such as
bathroom doors, screens, curtain walls, etc.
Many aluminum sashes are replaced in condominium renovations. In such cases, if the sash frames
were to be replaced as well, carpentry, plastering, and painting work would be required, which would
make the project costly and time consuming. Cover koho (overlay method) resolves this problem. In
the overlay method, the old frame is not removed, but instead a new frame is placed on top of it to
install the new sash.

3.2.27 Polyurethane Spray Foam Insulation Work
Rigid polyurethane foam is used as a building insulator because of its thermal insulation properties.
Fukitsuke urethane dannetsu koji (polyurethane sprayfoam insulation work) is work in which rigid
polyurethane foam liquid is directly sprayed onto aframe, etc. using a dedicated spraying machine in orderto form the rigid polyurethane foam on site. This

Polyurethane spray foam
insulation work

method of construction allows for a gapless insulation
layer.
Fukitsuke urethane dannetsu koji-yo gen’eki (rigid
polyurethane foam liquid) consists of the polyol
component and the polyisocyanate component, and thepolyol component is mixed with additives such as
Sprayed surface after the work

catalysts, foaming agents, and foaming regulators.
If the concrete surface to be sprayed is contaminated with dust or oil, the adhesive property will be63compromised and result in the foam peeling off, so the surface to be sprayed must be cleaned well.
Before starting, the foam is sprayed onto a square board of about 450 mm per side to check the foam
density. During construction, thickness is checked at 4~5 m intervals using a polyurethane foam
thickness gauge.

3.2.28 Waterproofing Work
The work done to prevent rainwater and snow from entering the interior of a building is called bosui
koji (waterproofing). Waterproofing work can be divided into five main types, depending on thematerials used.
[Urethane bosui koji] (polyurethane waterproofing work) A method of waterproofing by applying
liquid waterproofing material to the surface. This method can waterproof places with complex shapes.
It is suitable for waterproofing terraces, balconies, and rooftops, as well as for repairing leaking areas.
[FRP bosui koji] (FRP waterproofing work) A method in which fiberglass mats are laid down, andpolyester resin is applied on top of the mats. This method is durable and dries quickly.
[Sheet bosui koji] (sheet waterproofing work) A method in which synthetic rubber or synthetic resin
sheets are attached with adhesive. This method can coverlarge surfaces at once.
[Asphalt bosui koji] (asphalt waterproofing work) A
method in which synthetic fiber cloth sheet soaked withasphalt is attached to the base surface. To improveadhesion between the base surface and the sheet, asphalt
primer is applied to the base surface before the sheet is applied.

64

Asphalt sheet waterproofing[Sealing bosui koji] (sealing waterproofing work) A
method used to waterproof the grooves between
members. Primer is applied to the grooves before fillingwith sealant.
Sealing waterproofing work

3.2.29 Masonry Work
Ishi koji (masonry work) is the work of processing stones from various parts of the world andinstalling them where needed. Craftsmen who work with stones are called ishiku (stonemasons), andare referred to as ishiku-san. Masonry work is not related to the structure of the building, but it cangive the building a luxurious feel. This work does notallow mistakes, because if the stone cracks or breaks
during processing, it cannot be used anymore. In addition,
long experience is required to create a beautiful crazypaving finish using random stones of various shapes.
Stones used include not only natural stone such as

Bathtub construction for spa
facilities

dairiseki (marble) and mikageishi (granite), but also giseki (imitation stones) that resemble stones andconcrete blocks.

Work to pile up blocks

65

Processing of crazypaving stones

3.2.30 Electrical WorkElectrical work is an important job that supports the lives of many people. There are many types ofelectrical work involved in construction. Construction work dealing with high voltage is very
dangerous. Without the right knowledge and the skills to conduct the job carefully and accurately, it
can lead to fires and other disasters. Therefore, there are many tasks that can only be performed by aqualified denki kojishi (electrician). There are two types of electrician certifications: Class I and Class
II. Class I certification is required to perform sufficient electrical work in large buildings and factories.
Electrical work can be divided into two main categories, generally referred to as gaisen koji (outside
line work) and naisen koji (inside line work).
[Gaisen koji] (outside line work) Work to connect
electric wires at utility poles and underground to supply
electricity to the building. Wiring that is pulled into abuilding using utility poles is called kaku haisen(overhead wiring). Chichu haisen (underground wiring)

Overhead wiring
work

is when cables are run through a structure buried
underground and pulled into the building.
[Naisen koji] (inside line work) Work to enable use of electricity in the building. Typical construction
projects include the following.
- Grounding work to prevent electric shock and electrical leakage- Installation of substations- Installation of power equipment- Installation of power storage facilities- Installation of power generation equipment
Installation of an outlet box- Installation of distribution boards- Supplying power to heating and cooling equipment
66

- Installation of electric lighting equipment- Wiring and installation of switches, outlets, etc.

3.2.31 Telecommunications Work
Among electrical work, work related to telecommunications equipment such as telephones,
television, and the Internet is called denki tsushin koji (telecommunications work). There are two
methods for transmitting information: wired methods using cables and wireless methods using radio
waves. Cables are divided into metal cables using copper wires and optical cables using optical fiber.
Since telecommunications work is related to lifeline infrastructure, lack of correct knowledge andskills can lead to major network failures. Therefore, there
are some construction projects that can only be performedby qualified koji tanninsha (installation technician) or
denki

tsushinshuningijutsusha(chieftelecommunications engineer). Typical and familiar

Fiber-optic cable work

telecommunications facilities include the following.
[Yusen setsubi] (wired facilities) Poles, overhead and underground cables, fiber-optic cables, cablearrester, telephone equipment, PBX (telephone switchboard), etc.
[Musen setsubi] (wireless equipment) Wireless equipment, antennas, etc.
[Tsushin doboku setsubi] (telecommunications civil engineering work) Pipelines, cable tunnels,
manholes, etc.
[Kokan denso setsubi] (switching and transmission equipment) Subscriber switching system, relay
switching system, transmission equipment, etc.
[Tsushin denryoku setsubi] (communication power equipment) Power equipment (rectifiers,
storage batteries, engines, etc.)673.2.32 Pipe Work
This work enables delivery of water, oil, gas, steam, etc. to where it is needed through metal pipes,
etc. This includes plumbing for water supply, drainage, fire suppression systems, room coolers and air
conditioners. Thus, pipe work is an important job that
supports safe and comfortable civic life.
Basic skills include the ability to cut pipe material(cutting), connect pipes (joining), and assemble pipes,
all with accuracy.

Pipe work

3.2.33 Freezing and Air Conditioning Apparatus WorkFreezing and air conditioning apparatus refers to equipment that uses refrigerants, such as air
conditioners and freezers. Freezing and air conditioning apparatus work involves the installation offreezing and air conditioning apparatus, including refrigerant piping, and requires piping skills suchas copper pipe fabrication.
Typical examples of freezing and air conditioning apparatus include the following.
The freezing and air conditioning apparatus work includes disassembly, assembly, installation, andadjustment work, as well as piping work, for freezing and air conditioning equipment such as freezing
apparatus, refrigerating apparatus, freezers, packaged and separate-type air conditioners, home air
conditioners, commercial refrigerators and freezers, freezer/refrigerated showcases, transportation
refrigeration units, etc.

68

3.2.34 Water Supply, Drainage, and Sanitation Facilities Installation
Facilities that use cold and hot water to keep buildings hygienic and clean in order to maintain asafe and comfortable lifestyle for citizens are calledkyuhaisui eisei setsubi (water supply, drainage, and sanitation
facilities), and include the following types of work.
- Installation of water supply facilities

Example of water supply
and drainage work

- Installation of drainage and ventilation facilities- Installation of water heaters- Installation of sanitation equipment- Gas equipment work
[Kyusui setsubi koji] (water supply facility installation)
Installation of pumps and water receiving tanks as well as
pipe work to supply water from the water main throughdistribution pipes to toilets, kitchens, etc.
[Haisui/tsuki

setsubi](drainage/ventilation

Hot watertanksysteminstallation) Work to discharge dirty water from toilets andkitchens to the main sewer line.
[Kyuto setsubi] (water heater) Work to enable heating andsupplying of hot water.
Toilet[Eisei kigu setsubi koji] (sanitation equipment work)
Installation of toilet bowls, wash basins, etc.

69

3.2.35 Heat/Cold Insulation Work
This work aims to keep hot things from getting cold and coldthings from getting warm. Installing heat- and cold-insulating
materials (materials that do not transfer heat easily) on ducts andpipes reduces heat loss and fuel consumption. Also, attaching a heatinsulator to the surface of a hot object is a safety measure thatprevents burns. Equipment subject to heat/cold insulation work
includes air conditioning and sanitation facilities.

Heat/cold insulation for pipes

3.2.36 Furnace Installation
Ro (furnace) is equipment that applies heat to various materials to burn or melt them. Chikuro koji
(furnace installation) is the construction and maintenance of a furnace. Typical furnace installation
includes the following.
[Shokyakuro] (incinerator) Used to burn household and industrial waste.
[Cupola] A furnace for melting iron. Iron is melted by the heat from burning coke. Melted iron is used
for casting.
[Shodonro] (annealing furnace) A furnace used to make the properties of metal materials uniform.
[Dasshuro] (deodorizing furnace) A furnace used to eliminate the odor of bad-smelling exhaust gas.
Odors are removed through oxidation reactions of odor components.
[Alumi yokairo] (aluminum melting furnace) A furnace used to melt aluminum scraps and ingots
to make products. Melted aluminum is called molten aluminum.
[Biomass boiler] A boiler that uses wood chips, construction waste, and other materials from thefactory as fuel instead of fossil fuels. The heat from the burning process is used to heat water. It is also
used in combination with a system that uses steam to turn a turbine in order to generate electricity.
[Denkiro] (electric furnace) A furnace used to melt metals such as iron. It uses the heat generated by70

eddy current induced by electromagnetic induction.

3.2.37 Fire Fighting Equipment Installation
This equipment work is necessary to minimize damage
to buildings, people, and property in the event of a fire orFire fighting equipment
installation

other disasters, and must be installed and maintained inaccordance with the Fire Service Act. Firefighting
equipment installation includes shobo no yo ni kyosuru
setsubi (equipment used for firefighting) such as
extinguishing fires, sending alarms, and facilitating evacuation; shobo yosui (water for firefighting);and shoka katsudojo hitsuyo na shisetsu (facilities
necessary for firefighting) such as smoke exhaustsystems and emergency outlets. Facilities used for
firefighting as defined by the Fire Service Act include thefollowing.

Emergency broadcasting equipment andsurveillance camera equipment[Shoka setsubi] (fire extinguishing equipment)
Equipment that allows building occupants to extinguish fires (e.g., installed in hallways), sprinklers,
etc.
[Keiho setsubi] (alarm equipment) Alarm equipment that automatically detects smoke and heat,
emergency bells, and emergency broadcasts.
[Hinan setsubi] (evacuation equipment) Equipment for evacuation in the event of a fire. Evacuation
slides and ladders are installed.

71

3.2.38 Demolition Work
Buildings and structures eventually require rebuilding or removal due to aging or other reasons.
Kaitai koji (demolition work) is the process of breaking down a building or structure. Demolition work
includes not only the visible parts above ground, but also the underground frame. Demolition work indensely populated or busy areas requires careful attention to vibration, noise, and falling demolitionmaterials. Since asbestos, which is harmful to health, may be used in buildings, a survey is conductedin advance so as to take measures to prevent asbestos from flying around or being inhaled by workers
and others during demolition. The dismantled waste material is called kaitai gara (demolition debris).
Demolition debris is sorted into concrete, steel, etc., and disposed of. Asbestos and other harmful
materials require special treatment.

Demolition
work

Demolition
debris

3.3 Qualifications Required for Construction Work
In construction work, some tasks require a license, and some tasks may not be conducted without
undergoing skill training courses or special education.

3.3.1 Types of Qualifications Under the Industrial Safety and Health Act
There are three types of qualifications under the Industrial Safety and Health Act: kokka menkyo
ga hakko sareru kokka shikaku (national qualification for which a national license is issued), gino
koshu (skill training course), and tokubetsu kyoiku (special education). Skill training courses are
conducted by organizations registered with the respective prefectural labor bureaus. Upon completion72

of the skill training course and acquisition of skills, rodo anzen eiseiho niyoru gino koshu shuryosho(skill training course completion certificate under the Industrial Safety and Health Act) will be issued.
For the work specified in the Industrial Safety and Health Act, sagyo shuninsha (operations supervisor)
must be assigned at the work site to direct the workers who perform such work. Also, the Industrial
Safety and Health Act states that “Before assigning a worker to dangerous or hazardous operations
specified by Order of the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, an employer must educate thatworker in safety or health as it relates to the operations, pursuant to Order of the Ministry of Health,Labour and Welfare. (Article 59 Clause 3).” This education is called tokubetsu kyoiku (special
education). There are two ways to be educated: outside the company or within the company.

3.3.2 List of Qualifications, Etc. Under the Industrial Safety and Health Act(1) Cranes, etc.
To work with a crane, derrick, mobile crane, construction lift or slinging equipment, a license,
completion of a skill training course, or completion of special education is required for each type oflifting capacity.

Operations supervisor andDuties

Qualification (Education)

worker(s)Crane and derrick operators

Requirements
License (crane and derrick operator,

Safety Health Act Order

Operation of cranes and derricks having aan operator's license that limits the20(6)(8)lifting capacity of 5 tons or more

type of machine allowed to operate

Safety Ordinance forto cranes)

Cranes 22,108

A floor-operated system having a lifting

License (crane and derrick operator)

capacity of 5 tons or more, and the operator

or a person who has completed themoves along with the moved loadskill training course

1. Operation of cranes and derricks having a
lifting capacity of less than 5 tons
2. Operation of a telpher having a lifting
capacity of 5 tons or more.
Operations supervisor andRegulations/Articles

License (crane and derrick operator)
Persons who have completed theskill training course
Persons who have completed special
education

Duties

Qualification (Education)

worker(s)Requirements

73

Safety Health Act Order
20(6)Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 22
Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(15)(17)
Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 21,107
Regulations/Articles

Safety Health Act Order
Operation of mobile cranes having a lifting
capacity of 5 tons or more

20(7)License (mobile crane operator)

Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 68

Operation of mobile cranes having a lifting
Mobile crane operator

capacity of 1 ton or more but less than 5 tons

Safety Health Act Order

License (mobile crane operator)
or a person who has completed theskill training course

capacity of less than 1 ton

Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 68

License (mobile crane operator)
Operation of mobile cranes having a lifting20(7)Persons who have completed theskill training course
Persons who have completed special
education

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(16)Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 67
Safety & Health

Construction lift operator

Operation of construction lifts

Persons who have completed special

Ordinance 36(18)education

Safety Ordinance for
Cranes 183

Slinging of cargo lifting appliances with a

Safety Health Act Orderlimited load of 1 ton or more, or cranes,

Persons who have completed the20(16)

mobile cranes or derricks having a liftingskill training course

Safety Ordinance forcapacity of 1 ton or more

Cranes 221

Slinging of cargo lifting appliances with a

Safety & HealthSlinger
limited load of less than 1 ton, or cranes,

Persons who have completed special

Ordinance 36(19)mobile cranes or derricks having a lifting

education

Safety Ordinance forcapacity of less than 1 ton

Cranes 222(2) Gondola
Completion of special education is required to be qualified to operate gondolas for exteriorrenovations, window washing, etc. of high-rise buildings.

Operations supervisor andDuties

Qualification (Education)

worker(s)Requirements
Persons

Gondola operator

Regulations/Articles

Gondola operation

completededucation(3) Construction machines, etc.

74

who

have
specialSafety & HealthOrdinance 36(20)Safety Ordinance for
Gondolas 12

Completion of special education is required to operate or work with the construction machines listed
in the table below. Vehicle-type construction machines are construction machines that can propel itself
using power. Heavy machinery such as bulldozers, power shovels, bucket wheel excavators, andconcrete pump trucks are vehicle-type construction machine.

Operations supervisor andDutiesworker(s)Vehicle-type

construction

3t or heavier

machines
Operator(forhauling,

leveling,
loading,

excavating)

Machinery weightLess than 3t

Vehicle-type

construction

machines
Operator

Machinery weight(forfoundation

work)

Machinery weight3t or heavier

Machinery weightLess than 3t

Qualification (Education)

Regulations/Articl

RequirementsesPersonswho

have

Driving services for vehicles that arecompleted

the

skill

powered and capable of self-propulsion

training course

to an unspecified location. However,

Persons

this excludes driving on the road.

completed

Personswho

have

Driving services for vehicles that arecompleted

the

skill

powered and capable of self-propulsion

training course

to an unspecified location. However,

Persons

this excludes driving on the road.

completed

Persons

Construction

and other than that capable of self-propelling to unspecifiedcompleted

places.

education

Vehicle-type

construction

machines
Operatorofworking

attachment (for foundation
construction)
Vehicle-type

Operation of working attachment of a machine equipped withpower-driven system and capable of self-propelling tounspecified places(excluding operation in the operator's seat on the body)

construction

machines
Operator (for compaction)
operatingtheworking

attachmentofconstruction
(for

have
specialwhohavespecialwho

completedhave
specialeducationwhocompletedhave
specialeducation

PersonsmachinePersons

Persons
Roller driving operations (except for driving on the road)vehicle-type

who

educationWork operating a machine equipped with power-driven system

operatorhave
specialeducation

For foundation construction
machinewho

concrete

Operation of working attachment for concrete placement
machines

Personswho

completedhave
specialeducation

Safety Health Act
Order 20(12)Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(9)Safety Health Act
Order 20(12)Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(9)Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(9-2)

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(9-3)

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(10)Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(10-2)

placement)

Vehicle-type

Machinery

Personswho

have

SafetyHealth

the

skill

Act

Order

construction machines

weightDriving services for vehicles thatcompleted

Operator

3t or heavier

are powered and capable of self-

training course(fordemolition)(Breakers, steel section
cutting

machines,

concretecrushers,

MachineryweightLess than 3t

propulsion

toanunspecified

location. However, this excludes
driving on the road.

75

Persons
completededucation

who

20(12)
have
specialSafety & HealthOrdinance 36(9)gripping machines fordemolition)

Persons
Boring machine operator

Operation of boring machines

whocompleted

have

Safety & HealthspecialOrdinance 36

education(10-3)

Work operating (excluding the case of traveling on the

Personswho

have

SafetyHealthroad) a vehicle for work at height with the working

completed

the

skill

Act

Order

Operator of an aerial

platform of 10 m or more in heighttraining course

work platform

Work operating (excluding the case of traveling on the

Personsroad) a vehicle for work at height with the working

completed

platform of less than 10 m in heighteducationWork operating a vehicle with a maximum loading

Personswho

have

SafetyHealthcapacity of 1 ton or more (excluding the case ofcompleted

the

skill

Act

Order

traveling on the road)training course

Work operating a vehicle with a maximum loading

Persons

capacity of less than 1 ton (excluding the case ofcompletedtraveling on the road)education

Transporting vehicle on
rough terrain
Operator

Operatorofpoweredvehicles on railways

Work operating a powered vehicle that transport
people or cargo by rail

Operations supervisor andDutiesworker(s)Forklift
Operator

Operator

have

Safety & HealthspecialOrdinance 36(10-5)

20(14)

who

have

Safety & HealthspecialOrdinance 36(53)haveSafety & HealthspecialOrdinance 36

whocompletededucation(13)

Qualification (Education)

Regulations/Articl

RequirementsesWork operating a forklift with a maximum load of 1

Personswho

have

SafetyHealthton or more (excluding the case of traveling on thecompleted

the

skill

Act

Order

road)

training course

Work operating a forklift with a maximum load of lessthan 1 ton (excluding the case of traveling on the road)

Shovel loader

Persons

20(15)

who

Personswho

completed20(11)
have
specialeducation

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(5)Work operating a shovel loader or a fork loader with a

Personswho

have

SafetyHealthmaximum load of 1 ton or more (excluding the case ofcompleted

the

skill

Act

Order

traveling on the road)training course

Work operating a shovel loader or a fork loader with a

Personsmaximum load of less than 1 ton (excluding the casecompletedof traveling on the road)education

who

20(13)
have
specialSafety & HealthOrdinance 36(52)(4) Hoist
A hoist is a machine used for lifting and lowering, transporting, pulling work, etc. It is also called awinch. Completion of special education is required to operate hoists with power-driven systems.
76Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Hoist operator

Hoists with power-driven system (excluding electric

Persons who havehoists, air hoists and other hoists pertaining tocompletedgondolas)education

specialSafety & HealthOrdinance 36(11)(5) Grinding wheel
A grinding wheel is a tool for grinding and polishing mainly metals, and is attached to a grinder ora grinding machine. Grinding operations using grinders and grinding machines are hazardous because
the disk-shaped grinding wheel rotates at a high speed. Therefore, completion of special
education is required to engage in work involving replacement of grinding wheels
or their test runs.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Grinding
replacement
operator

wheel
test

run

Replacement of grinding wheels or their test runs at
the time of replacement

Persons who havecompletededucation

specialSafety & HealthOrdinance 36(1)(6) Welding
Welding is a technique that uses heat to melt materials in order to join them together. Due topossibilities of electric shock, adverse effect on eyes from light, skin burns, and ignition and explosionof combustible materials,completion of special education is require d to engage in gas
welding and arc welding work. In addition, when welding using acetylene welding
equipment or gas welding equipment using manifold, it is mandatory to have a gas
yosetsu sagyo shuninsha (gas welding operations supervisor) who instructs wo rkers
on how to proceed with the work. To be appointed as a supervisor, a license is77

required.
Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
RequirementsGaswelding

operations supervisor

Gas welder

Arc welder

Welding, cutting, and heating of metals using
acetylene welding equipment or gas welding

Safety & Health
Licenseequipment using manifold

Ordinance
314,316

Welding, cutting, or heating of metals using
combustible gas and oxygen

Persons who havecompleted the skill
training course

Welding, cutting, etc. of metals using arc
welding machines.

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Safety Health Act
Order 20(10)Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(3)(7) Electricity
Juden denro (charged circuit) in the table below refers to an exposed electric circuit that is turnedon and can cause electric shocks if touched. Due to the risk of electric shock, completion of special
education is required to engage in construction work involving charged circuits.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Laying, inspection, repair, and operation ofElectrician

charged circuits or their supports, and(High or low voltage)

operation of switchgear with exposed charged
portions

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(4)(8) Blasting and quarrying
Happa (blasting) is the process of boring a hole in a rock, setting explosives inside it and detonating
it. A blasting operator's license is required to perform blasting work at quarry sites and construction
sites. In addition, to perform excavation work at a height of 2 m or more for quarrying, completion of
the skill training course is required.

78

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Blasting operations (boring, feeding, wiring,
Blasting operator

igniting, and inspecting and treating misfires
and residual gunpowder)

Safety Health Act
License (blasting

Order 20(1),operator)

Safety & HealthOrdinance 318

Excavation work for the extraction of rock as

Persons who have

Quarrying excavation

defined in Article 2 of the Quarrying Act

completed

operations supervisor

where the height of the excavation surface is 2

skill

m or morecoursethetraining

Safety & HealthOrdinance
403,404(9) Oxygen deficiency work
There is a risk of anoxia (oxygen deficiency) and sulfide poisoning in manholes, undergroundpassageways, sewers, and tunnels. Completion of a skill training course is required to work inplaces where it is likely to cause anoxia, and completion of special education is required to work inplaces where it is likely to cause sulfide poisoning.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Persons who have

Operations supervisorof work withoxygenWork in Class I and Class II places with
deficientdanger of oxygen deficiency

training

course(Class I and Class

dangerAnoxia Ordinance
11

II)

Workers engaging inworkcompleted the skill

withoxygendeficient danger

Operations related to work with oxygen
deficient danger

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(26)Anoxia Ordinance12(10) Dust
Substance particles generated by crushing or piling up of materials and dispersed into the air are
called funjin (dust). Prolonged work in areas where there is always dust drifting in the air can beharmful to the human body due to continuous inhalation of dust. Completion of special education is79

required to work in these locations on a regular basis.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Specified dust worker

Regular work pertaining to the specified dust
operation

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(29)Dust Ordinance22(11) Hazardous substances
Completion of special education is required to work with hazardous substances.

Operations supervisor

Dutiesand worker(s)Qualification

Regulations/Articl(Education)

esRequirements

Operations supervisor
for
specifiedchemical

substances andtetra-alkyl lead, etc.

Leaddangeroperations supervisor

SpecifiedWork that produces or handles specified

Persons who have

Chemicalchemical substances (arc-welding operations

completedtheOrdinance 27,28

supervisor)skill

training

Tetra-alkyl Lead

Work involving tetra-alkyl lead, etc.

coursePoisoning
Ordinance 14,15

Operations related to lead work

(excluding

those conducted by remote control in isolatedrooms)

Persons who havecompleted
skill

the
training

Lead Ordinance
33,34

coursePersons who haveAsbestos

operations

supervisor

Work to manufacture or handle specifiedcompletedasbestos, etc.

skill

the
training

Asbestos
Ordinance 19

courseAsbestos handlingWork such as demolition of buildings orworkerstructures in which asbestos, etc. is used

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Asbestos
Ordinance 27
Safety & Health

Tetra-alkyl

leadworkers

Persons who have
Operations such as handling tetra-alkyl leadcompleted special
education

Ordinance
36(25)
Tetra-alkyl Lead
Poisoning
Ordinance 21

Organic

solvents

Work in indoor worksites, tanks, etc. where

Persons who have

Organic Solvent

operations supervisor

organic solvents and substances containing 5%completed

Ordinance80

theor more organic solvents are handledskill

training

19,19-2

courseHandling of soot and dust, burnt ash and other

Persons who haveburnt residues associated with the work at wastecompleted special

treatment facilities

educationWork on maintenance and inspection, etc., of
Waste

treatment

facility workers

Safety & HealthOrdinance
36(34)

Persons who have

Safety & Healthcompleted special

Ordinance

education

36(35)

waste incinerators and dust collectors, etc.,

Persons who have

Safety & Healthinstalled in waste treatment facilities, and work

completed special

Ordinance

handling soot and dust, burnt ash and other burnt

education

36(36)

equipment such as waste incinerator and dust
collector, etc. installed in waste treatment
facilities
Work of dismantling, etc., equipment such as

residues associated with the work(12) Freight handling and cargo handling operations
Stacked cargo is called hai, stacking cargo high is called haizuke, and unloading cargo is calledhaikuzushi. Poor stacking techniques can lead to the load collapsing and causing serious accidents.
Completion of special education is required to perform the duties listed in the table below.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Cargo stacking or unstacking operation for a
Cargo

Persons who have

Safety & Healthcompleted the skill

Ordinance

training course

428,429

cargos from a vessel, or moving cargos in a

Persons who have

Safety & Healthvessel (excluding work performed withoutcompleted the skill

Ordinance

using cargo lifting appliances on a vessel oftraining course

450,451

stacking

cargo pile having a height of 2 m or more

operations supervisor(excluding work performed solely by theoperator of the cargo handling machine)Work of loading cargos to a vessel, unloading

Stevedoring
operations supervisor

less than 500 tons gross tonnage).
Slinging of cargo lifting appliances with alimited load of 1 ton or more, or cranes,
mobile cranes or derricks having a lifting
Slinger

capacity of 1 ton or more
Slinging of cargo lifting appliances with alimited load of less than 1 ton, or cranes,
mobile cranes or derricks having a lifting
capacity of less than 1 ton

81

Persons who havecompleted the skill
training course
Persons who havecompleted special
education

Safety Health Act
Order 20(16)Safety Ordinancefor Cranes 221
Safety & HealthOrdinance 36(19)Safety Ordinancefor Cranes 222

(13) Hyperbaric work
Completion of special education is required to work in areas with high atmospheric pressure. In
particular, licenses are required for operations supervisor for work inside hyperbaric chambers anddivers.

Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Work inside a high-pressure chamber (work
Operations supervisor

performed inside a workroom or shaft whereforinsidethe inside pressure exceeds the atmospheric

hyperbaric chamberspressure, by means of a caisson method orwork

LicenseHigh

PressureWork

Ordinance

10

other compressed air methods)
Safety & HealthAir

compressor

technician

Work operating an air compressor for sending
air to a work chamber or man-lock chamber

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Ordinance 36(202)High

PressureWork

Ordinance

11
Safety & HealthOrdinanceAiradjustervalve

technician

Work operating valves or cocks for adjusting
the amount of air to be delivered to working
chambers or diving workers

Persons who havecompleted special
education

36(21,23)
High

PressureWork

Ordinance

11
Safety & Health
Pressure

regulating

technician

Work operating valves and cocks for adjusting

Persons who have

Ordinance 36(22)the amount of fresh air to be delivered to or air

completed special

High

Pressure

to be let out of a man-lock chamber

education

Work

Ordinance

11
Safety & Health
Recompression
chamber

operatingWork operating a recompression chamber

technician

Persons who have

Ordinance 36(24)completed special

High

Pressure

education

Work

Ordinance

11
Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)(Education)
Requirements

82

Regulations/Articles

Safety & HealthHyperbaric

chamber

workers

Operation pertaining to work in hyperbaric
chamber

Persons who havecompleted special
education

Ordinance 36(242)High

PressureWork

Ordinance

11
Safety & HealthOperation carried out in water using diving
Diverapparatus while receiving the air supply froman air compressor or by manual pump, or from

Ordinance 20(9)License (diver)a compressed-air cylinder

High

PressureWork

Ordinance

12(14) Other construction work
Completion of skill training courses or special education is required to engage in the construction
work listed in the table below.
Operations supervisor

Duties

Qualification

and worker(s)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Persons who have
Concrete breaker
Operations supervisor

Breaking operations using concrete breakers

completed
skill

the
training

Safety&HealthOrdinance 321-3,-4

courseExcavating natural
ground and shoring
operations supervisor
Tunnel excavation,etc. operations
supervisor

Excavation work, fitting or removing struts

Persons who haveor waling of shoring of the natural groundcompleted

where the height of the excavating surface isskill

2 m or morecourseWork of excavating tunnels, etc., or muck

Persons who haveloading associated with it, assembling ofcompletedtunnel shoring, lock bolt fastening or workskill

to spray concrete, etc.

courseOperations tunnel

Assembly,lining, etc. operations

concrete pouring of tunnel concrete form

supervisor

shoring and other work to cover tunnels, etc.

Workers inside thetunnelConcrete formshoring assembly, etc.
operations supervisor

moving,dismantling,

and

the
trainingthetraining

completed
skill

the

shoringtraining

completed special

Persons who havecompleted
skill

83

HealthOrdinance 359,360,
374,375

Safety&HealthOrdinance 383-2,-3

Safety&HealthOrdinance 383-4,-5

courseeducation

Assembly or disassembly of concrete form&

Persons who have

Persons who have
Excavation, covering, etc. of tunnels, etc.

Safetythetraining

Safety&HealthOrdinance 36(30)Safety&HealthOrdinance 246,247

courseScaffolding assembly,
etc. operations
supervisor

Work to assemble, dismantle or alter

Persons who havesuspended

completedscaffolding,overhanging

scaffolding or scaffolding of a height of 5 m

skill

or morecourseScaffolding assemblyWork related to the assembly, dismantling or

and other operations

alteration of scaffolding

Operations supervisor

Dutiesthetraining

Persons who havecompleted special
education
Qualification

and worker(s)Safety&HealthOrdinance 565,566

Safety&HealthOrdinance 36(39)Regulations/Articles(Education)
Requirements

Operations supervisor

Work to assemble, dismantle or alter the

Persons who havefor the assembly, etc.

frame of buildings or towers that iscompletedof the steel frames ofcomposed of metallic members (limited toskillbuildings, etc.

those with a height of 5 m or more)courseWork to install, dismantle and alter bridge
Steel bridge

superstructures

composedofmetallic

installation, etc.

members

operations supervisor

5 m or the portion of such superstructure(limited to those whose height iswith a bridge span of 30 m or more)
Wooden building

Work to assemble construction members oferection, etc.

wooden buildings or work of mounting roof

operations supervisorand exterior wall backings

Concrete structure
demolition, etc.
operations supervisor

thetraining

completed
skill

the
training

Persons who havecompleted
skill

the
training

Persons who havecompletedstructures with a height of 5 m

skill

the
training

coursesuperstructures(limited to those whose

installation, etc.

height is 5 m or the portion of suchoperations supervisor

superstructure with a bridge span of 30 m or
more)

HealthOrdinance 517-4,-5

Safety&HealthOrdinance 517-8,-9

courseWork to dismantle or demolish concreteWork to install, dismantle and alter bridge&

Persons who havecourseConcrete bridge

SafetyPersons who havecompleted
skill

the
training

courseSafety&HealthOrdinance 517-12,13
Safety&HealthOrdinance 517-17,18

Safety&HealthOrdinance 517-22,23

Work performed using lifting equipment,
Rope work at heightand in which the worker is held in place by

Persons who havesuch lifting equipment, at a height of 2 m orcompleted special

more where it is difficult to provide a

education

working platform

84

Safety&HealthOrdinance 36(40)Chapter 4: Greetings, Terminologies, and Tips on Community Living
at Construction Sites
Construction

sites use special words and terms that are not often used in everyday life. Understanding theseisimportant not only for smoother communication, but also to ensure that the work proceeds safely andefficiently.

4.1 Greetings, Emergency Warnings, Etc.
A personis more likely to have a good impression of those who greet him or her. Also, the choice of phrases

can brighten someone’s day. Greet everyone cheerfully, even if you don't know them.

4.1.1 “Ohayogozaimasu.”
Ohayogozaimasu” is good morning, and is the basic morning greeting. Say “Ohayogozaimasu!” in“

the morning to everyone when it is the first time seeing them that day.

4.1.2 “Goanzenni.”
There are many hazards on construction sites. In addition to considering your own safety, use“Goanzenni” to express your hope that your colleagues will also be safe, and that they may conclude
the day’s work without any accidents or injuries. Since the phrase shows consideration for the otherperson, those who hear it will feel encouraged in doing their work.
For example, at the end of the morning meeting, everyone says “Kyo mo ichinichi goanzenni”
before starting work, expressing the wish for everyone to have a safe day. Also say, “Goanzenni!”
when you pass by someone who is engaged in dangerous work. The person to whom it is said can go
to the work site with a positive feeling and a desire to be careful.

854.1.3 “Otsukaresamadesu.”“Otsukaresamadesu” is a phrase that expresses gratitude and appreciation for the other person's
work and hardship. Unlike “Goanzenni” (“stay safe”), “Otsukaresamadesu” can be used not only atconstruction sites, but anywhere there are workers. It can be used when passing each other in an office,break area, hallway, etc. If you see someone leaving after work, cheerfully say, “Otsukaresamadeshita!”
to thank them and send them off.

4.1.4 “Gokurosama.”“Gokurosama” is a phrase used to and show appreciation for what the other person has done for
thankyou Although this term can be used for people who are superior to you, such as site supervisors,.

foremen, and seniors, most Japanese people consider it impolite to use it when speaking to superiors.
It is probably best not to use “Gokurosama” with your superiors.
On the other hand, if a superior says to you, “Gokurosama!” it means that they are grateful to you.
Reply with an energetic “Arigatogozaimasu!”

4.1.5 “Shitsureishimasu.”“Shitsureishimasu” (excuse me) is a common phrase used by everyone, not just in the constructionindustry. Rei refers to courtesy (manners), and shitsu means to lose. The original meaning of the word
is “lacking in manners,” but this phrase is not offensive.
For example, when entering a room, you might say, “Shitsureishimasu (for interrupting yourconversation),” indicating that you are aware that you might be interrupting someone who is working
in the room.
When the person you need to urgently speak to is in conversation with someone else, you say,
“Shitsureishimasu.”
When you are leaving while someone else is still working, you can use the phrase “Osakini
86shitsureishimasu” (I will take my leave).” To that, say, “Otsukaresamadeshita.”

4.1.6 “Abunai”
When you are concentrating on your work, you may not realize the danger that is approaching you.
When people sense that a person is in danger, the first thing they say is “Abunai!” If the danger comesfrom an object falling down from above or from the side, they will say, “Abunai! Yokero!” (“Lookout! Dodge!”) If you hear a voice yelling, “Abunai!”, react immediately.

4.2 Terms Used on Construction Sites
4.2 explains the terms you need to know when working under the direction of a foreman or seniorstaff member.

4.2.1 Terms Related to Layout Marking[Sumidashi] (layout marking) Drawing various reference lines on the ground, etc. that are necessary
for construction. Traditional line markers and laser markers are used.
[Kijunzumi] (reference marking) The horizontal and vertical lines that are used as a reference whenbuilding. From the reference marking lines, the axis lines of the columns and walls are drawn.
[Torishin] (axis line) The line that passes through the center. Sometimes it is used to refer to kabeshin
and hashirashin.
[Nigezumi] (offset marking) A line drawn when a reference marking cannot be drawn due toobstructions. It is also called kaerisumi. The line is drawn parallel to or as an extension of the reference
marking. The distance from the reference marking is written down for future information.
[Rokuzumi] (level marking) Horizontal lines to indicate the standard height, also called rikuzumi.
Also called koshizumi, mizuzumi, and suiheizumi.

87

[Tatezumi] (vertical reference marking) Vertical lines indicated on the surfaces of walls, columns,
and other surfaces.
[Jizumi] (floor reference line) Reference lines drawn directly onto horizontal surfaces such as floors.
[Shiagezumi] (finish marking) Lines that indicate the finished dimensions based on the axis lines
and the building frame surfaces.

Example of markings on the frame
VerticalreferenceCenterline marking formarking (finish

windows (finish marking)marking)(Finishmarking)
Rokuzumi

Axis line (groundreference marking)Centerline marking
for entrance/exit(ground reference
marking)

Offset marking forthe axis line (groundreference marking)Wall[Kabeshin] (wall center line) A line through thecenter of the wall.
Column[Hashirashin] (column center line) A line throughColumncenterline

Wallthe center of the column.
[Oyazumi] (parent marking) A line used as aWallcenterline

reference for the next process of layout marking work,
such as drawing the axis line and the level marking.
[Kane wo furu] (perpendicular marking) Drawing a perpendicular line.
[Sumitsuke] (marking out) Marking wooden members for fabrication.

88

Columncenterline

Wallcenterline

4.2.2 Terms Related to Temporary Enclosures[Yarikata] (temporary enclosure) A temporary enclosure made so that the reference lines (centerlines

of columns and walls, horizontal line, etc.), position of the building, right angle, and leveling (heightreference) can be found. It is made with wooden stakes and boards called mizunuki. In civil engineering,
the term chobari is used.
[Mizunuki] (board) Boards hammered horizontally onto the wooden stakes to make a temporary
enclosure.
[Mizumori] (leveling) It is to establish the leveling as the standard for the height of a building. It iscalled mizumori because it uses a tool called mizumori-kan.
[Jinawahari] (setting out) A process of marking the ground to determine the position of a building.
Rope or tough tape is used.
[Mizuito] (level line) A string indicating the level, stretched between the boards in a temporary
enclosure. This is the reference for the axis line.
[Benchmark/BM] A reference point for the height of a site or building. It will not be removed until
the building is completed. With BM as the reference, higher positions are indicated by “+” numbers
and lower positions by “-” numbers. Example: GL=BM+200[GL] Abbreviation for Ground Level or Ground Line. It is the height of the surface of the land on
which the building is to be built.
[FH] Abbreviation for Formation Height. The height of the planned lot.
[FL] Abbreviation for Floor Level or Floor Line. The height of the finished surface of the floor. The
first floor is represented as 1FL and the second floor as 2FL.
[SL] Abbreviation for Slab Level or Slab Line. The finished height of the slab.
[CH] Abbreviation for Ceiling Height. This is the height from the FL to the finished ceiling surface.

894.2.3 Terms Related to Earthwork[Dokoji] (earthwork) Construction work to create the ground base, foundations, and undergroundstructures for buildings.
[Morido] (embankment) The process of creating a flat surface by heaping up soil on slopes, unevenland, and land with low elevation.
[Dankiri] (terracing) When embanking a steep slope, stair-like shapes are cut to prevent the soil fromsliding down.
[Shimekatame] (compaction) The process of applying pressure to soil, sand, or asphalt to reduce thegaps between particles and increase their density (called mitsujitsu). For example, compaction is used
to create a firm aggregate base layer during pavement construction.
[Ten’atsu] (machine compaction) Compaction of soil using tire rollers, etc. Compaction of broken
stones and gravel by small machines such as rammers is also called ten’atsu.
[Umemodoshi] (backfilling) The process of filling in soil up to the doma level (ground under thehouse) inside and outside of a building after the completion of underground work such as undergroundbeams.
[Tsukikatame] (compaction by tamping) The process of increasing the density of the backfilled soil
using rammers, plates, or other means.
[Roban] (aggregate base layer) The layer created above the subgrade layer. It serves to disperse theforces transmitted from the asphalt surface layer and transfer them to the subgrade layer.
[Rosho] (subgrade layer) The portion of the ground supporting the pavement that is approximately 1m from the temporary surface of the pavement.
[Hyoso] (surface layer) The uppermost layer in asphalt pavement.
[Jinawahari] (setting out) A process of marking the perimeter of the foundation with a rope, vinyl
string, etc to indicate the scope of the foundation. The term is used in architecture.
[Nekiri] (foundation excavation) This is the process of digging (called kussaku) a hole to the bottom90

of the foundation using heavy machinery or other equipment.
[Neire nagasa] (footing depth) The length or depth from the excavation floor to the top of thefoundation or pile.
[Subori] (unprotected excavation) When the ground condition is good and there is no danger ofcollapses, excavation is done without dodome (earth retaining) to prevent the soil from collapsing.
[Dodome] (earth retaining) Taking measures to hold back slopes, fill, excavated trenches, etc. toprevent them from collapsing.
[Yoheki] (retaining wall) A wall-like structure of for dodome (earth retaining) is called yoheki.
[Bashouchi] (cast-in-situ) Concrete work in which concrete is cast directly on-site instead of using
factory-cast concrete products. It is also called genbauchi (on-site placement). For example, there are
two types of piling methods: kisei kui koho (precast piling method) and bashouchi concrete kui koho
(cast-in-situ concrete piling method).
[Utsu] (placing/casting) Utsu means to beat, but in construction terminology, pouring concrete iscalled utsu or dasetsu suru (casting/placing).
[Yobori] (extra excavation) The excavation of extra space for the work area during foundation
excavation.
[Sukitori] (grading) The process of scraping excess undulations on the site and the excavation floor
to create a flat surface at a predetermined height.
[Tokozuke] (bottom leveling) After excavating to almost the planned depth, the process of accurately
leveling and finishing the excavation floor.
[Kuima sarai] (leveling between the piles) The soil between and around the piles accumulated duringbottom leveling is dug up and leveled.
[Dan bane] (step excavation) In order to remove the excavated soil (called haido) when thefoundation excavation is deep, the ground is left stair-stepped and the excavated soil is successively
flung up to the upper level.
91

[Jiyama] (untouched ground) The term refers to the ground in its natural state.
[Norimen] (slope) A sloped surface, also called nori. On a construction site, it refers to a sloped
excavation surface.
[Yama ga kuru] (landslide) The collapsing of the soil retainer or an excavated slope. This often leads
to onsite disasters.
[Yamadome] (soil retaining) The use of sheet piles and other means to hold back the soil to preventthe ground from collapsing. If there is room on the site, the open-cut koho (open-cut method) is used
to cut the ground at an angle. If there is not enough room on the site, the yamadome kabe open-cut
koho (soil-retaining wall open-cut method) is used to provide walls and shoring.
[Yaita] (sheet piles) Boards used to stop earh/soil.
[Koyaita] (steel sheet piles) Steel sheet piles with grooved ends so that they can be joined to eachother.
[Mizukae] (water drainage) To drain the water that accumulates at the excavation floor by making awater pit, using a pump. etc.
[Kamaba] (water pit) A pit where a water pump is installed for water drainage.
[Yamazuna] (sand from mountains) Sand collected from land. It has a higher water retention
capacity than sand collected from rivers.
[Mizushime] (water compaction) The process of compacting backfilled soil by pouring water into
the soil. This is done to make the backfill more dense. For example, when steel sheet piles for soil
retaining are pulled out, some surrounding sediment comes out along with the piles. If backfilled as it
is with gaps, it will cause sinking after a while. Water compaction is performed to prevent this sinking.
[Manbo] (counting) Counting the number of trucks and people entering the site, as well as the numberof logs and wood piles.

924.2.4 Terms Related to Subgrade and Foundation Work
[Jigyo] (subgrade] The area under the foundation slab or work related to it. Sand, gravel, broken
stones, nonstructural concrete, and piles are used to support the foundation slab. There are a variety of
subgrade work depending on the type of material.
[Kiso] (foundation) The portion that transfers the weight of the structure (called kenzobutsu kaju
(building load)) directly to the ground. Types include shallow foundation and pile foundation.
[Chokusetsu kiso] (shallow foundation) A foundation that transfers the building load directly to theground. A foundation that covers the entire bottom of the building is called beta kiso (mat foundation).
In addition, a foundation shaped like an inverted letter “T” that is constructed only where a particularload is applied is called a footing. Both are used in locations where the ground is solid and firm.
[Kui kiso] (pile foundation) A foundation built in areas where the ground is weak. Cylindricalcolumns called kui (piles) are driven in to reach solid ground to support the building load.
[Slab] Originally, the word “slab” meant a flat plate or stone slab, but in buildings, it refers to a flatarea such as a floor or foundation. A slab that supports a building is called kozo slab (structural slab),a structural slab that refers specifically to the foundation is called kiso slab (foundation slab), and aslab without beams is called a flat slab, and so on, in combination with various other words.
[Kui jigyo] (pile foundation work) Work for pile foundation. There are precast concrete pilefoundation work, steel pile foundation work, and cast-in-situ concrete pile foundation work.
[Kiso menshin] (foundation isolation) A system that absorbs horizontal forces applied to a buildingin the event of an earthquake and reduces the forces transmitted to the building. This construction
method is necessary for constructing buildings and condominiums in Japan, where earthquakes arecommon. It is installed between the ground and the foundation.

4.2.5 Terms Related to Scaffolding and Temporary Construction[Scaffolding] There are various types of scaffolding depending on use and structure. On a construction
93

site, it refers to a temporary floor or walkway assembled with circular hollow section or special
materials. Framed scaffolding, tube scaffolding, and ringlock scaffolding are often used.
[Sagyo yuka] (working platform) A scaffold floor is made of scaffold boards (called nunoita(scaffold plank with hooks)) and other materials stretched over the floor so that people can work on
top of it.
[Karigakoi] (temporary enclosure) Temporary enclosures that separate the construction site fromthe adjacent land or road in order to restrict access to the site by persons not involved in theconstruction to prevent danger and theft.

4.2.6 Terms Related to Rebar, Formwork, and Concrete Placement Work[Haikin] (rebar placement) Placement and assembly of reinforcing bars. Rebar placement methods
include double reinforcement, single reinforcement, and staggered reinforcement.
[Hiroidashi] (calculation) To calculate the materials required, their quantities, and labor (how many
people it will take) from the drawings and specifications.
[Asobi] (play) Margin and play.
[Aki] (space) The distance between the rebars.
[Kankaku] (spacing) Distance between centers of rebars.
[Sute concrete] (nonstructural concrete) Concrete that is placed flat with a thickness of 5 cm to 10
cm, mainly for layout marking and erecting formwork. It is abbreviated as sutecon. In addition toestablishing a reference for the marked height, nonstructural concrete is used as a base for accurate
placement of formwork and rebars.
[Kessoku] (tie) To tie something up. In rebar work, special binding wire is tied at the intersection of
the reinforcing bars using a tool called a hacker. There are two types of knots called tasukigake (crosstie) and kata dasuki (simple tie)
[Kaburi atsusa] (concrete cover thickness) The distance between the rebars and the surface of the94

concrete covering them.
[Tatekomi] (formwork erecting) The process of erecting the formwork in accordance with the layout
marking lines.
[Noro] (cement slurry) Cement dissolved in water is called noro. In formwork carpentry, concrete
can leak from gaps between the joints of the formwork, and this is also called noro.
[Anko] (temporary lid) When making a complicated groove or notch in concrete, this member
prevents the concrete placed in that area from pouring into said groove or notch. It is removed after
the concrete has set.
[Ten’yo] (reuse) The use of the same formwork material at a different site. When the structure of eachfloor is the same in a construction project such as a building, the formwork used is moved up to thefloor above and used again.
[Panku] (blow-out) When the formwork breaks during placing or hardening (setting) of concrete andthe concrete flows out. Blow-outs occur when the shoring is not sufficient.
[Kugi jimai] (nail removal) Removal of nails from the formwork in order to reuse the formwork
material. This is why the term is used to refer to putting away the formwork.
[Uchikomi] (second pouring) Pouring concrete into the formwork and packing without gaps.
[Uchikasane] (additional pouring) Pouring concrete on top of concrete that has not hardened yet. If
the concrete is not poured before the previous batch has hardened, cold joints will occur. When theoutside temperature is below 25°C, the second pour should be done within 150 minutes; when theoutside temperature is above 25°C, the second pour should be done within 120 minutes.
[Cold joint] Joint that occurs when the timing of the second pouring is not appropriate.
[Uchitsugi] (staging) Pouring concrete on top of concrete that has already hardened. Staging is
performed at locations determined to have no structural or waterproofing problems.
[Shimekatame] (compaction) A term that also appears in earthwork, but in concrete placement,
poured concrete is vibrated with a vibrator or the formwork is tapped with a rubber hammer to95eliminate gaps in the concrete and make it dense.
[Tamping] The process of tamping the surface of the slab formwork so that the concrete placed in theslab becomes dense.
[Nerimaze] (mixing) Mixing cement and aggregate uniformly.
[Haigo] (blend) The ratio of each material used to make concrete.

4.2.7 Terms Describing Fit and Condition[Osamari] (fit) A word used to describe the balance of the arrangement of things. It is used to mean
osamari ga ii (well-fitted) or osamari ga warui (poorly fitted).
[Toriai] (interface) The part where two or more different members meet, or the treatment of that part.
When two parts collide with each other at a point where they should not collide, it is called toriai ga
warui (poor interfacing). The phrase “poorly fitted” is also used in the same sense. The phrase tenjo
to kabe no toriai (the ceiling-wall interface), refers to the joint between the ceiling and the wall.
[Mitsuke] (visible face) Men (face) of a member that is visible from the front when the construction
is finished.
[Miegakari] (visible part) Similar to mitsuke, this term refers to the visible part of a construction
member. While mitsuke indicates and entire surface that is visible, miegakari refers to a part that it isvisible through a gap or at an angle.
[Miekakure] (hidden part) The opposite of miegakari, it means “less visible.“ It refers to somethingthat is visible or not visible, meaning a member that becomes visible when something is moved or
flipped.
[Tori] (straightness) The state of being in a straight line. If something is bent or distorted, it is called
tori ga warui (not straight). The process of checking to see if something is straight is called tori wo
miru.
[Tsura] (surface) The surface. It is also called men.
96

[Tsuraichi] (flush) The state in which the surfaces of two members are flat and aligned. It is used astsuraichi ni suru (make flush).
[Sori] (concave) A line or curved surface that is in a concave state.
[Mukuri] (convex) A line or curved surface that is in a convex state.
[Roku] (horizontal) Refers to a horizontal state, also called riku. For example, a horizontal roof iscalled roku yane (flat roof).
[Furoku] (uneven) Refers to a state in which a surface is uneven. Also called furiku.
[Mechigai] (misalignment) Refers to a state in which the surfaces of planks, boards, tiles, etc. are notflush with each other when they are joined together, or the joints are not aligned.
[Ogamu] (leaning) A term used to describe a building or other structure that should be standing
upright, but is leaning.
[Kane] (right angle) A right angle.
[Korobi] (tilted) When a pillar or wall that should be vertical is tilted. It is also used for sloped
columns.
[Nige] (tolerance) The allowable variation in terms of dimensions or installation that is set in advance.
Nige (tolerance) is set in order to absorb material processing errors and on-site installation errors.

[Mikiru] (trimming) To clean up the joint portion of two works. The member used to do this is calledmikirizai (trimmer). For example, the border between the floor and the wall is neatly finished withtrimmers. Also, when painting walls, curing tape can be applied to the joints to ensure that the finish
has no gaps.
[Najimi] (adhesion) When two or more members are combined, this term is used to describe that thejoints are tightly adhered to each other. When the adhesion is good, it is referred to as najimi ga ii(good adhesion) and when the adhesion is poor it is referred to as najimi ga warui (poor adhesion).
[Sute] (nonstructural) A term for materials that are not related to the structure or finish of the material
itself, but are used to improve the fit of the construction. For example, it is used as in sute concrete97

(nonstructural concrete).
[Beta] (fully spread) The term to describe something being spread over the entire surface without
gaps. Beta kiso (mat foundation) is a type of foundation in which concrete is poured to cover the entire
bottom of the building. Beta nuri is a coating applied to the entire surface.
[Fukashi] (over-dimensioned) Refers to the portion of the finished project that is larger than indicatedin the design. It is also used to indicate when the finished surface is made visible from the front. Fukasu
means to make fukashi.
[Temodori] (rework) To redo a process that has already been completed, used as in temodori ga okoru(rework occurs).
[Dandori] (preparation) To consider the method of construction and plan the procedure in advanceto avoid rework.
[Tenaoshi] (retouch) To correct a part of the work that has already been done. Retouching is
conducted when there are any portions that differ from the blueprints or have defective workmanship.
[Dame] (deficiency) A term used to indicate that there are oversights or unfinished portions of abuilding project that is almost complete. Finishing that part is called dame naoshi (deficiency
correction)“.
[Tappa] (height) Height.
[Uwaba] (upper end) The term used to describe the upper end of an object or a member.
[Shitaba] (bottom end) The term used to describe the bottom end of an object or a member.

4.2.8 Terms Related to Length, Breadth, and Width[Pitch] Spacing between allocations.
[Ou] (laying out) To take the dimensions from the reference position.
[Sunpo] (length) Length.
[Ikken] (1 ken)A unit of length used in Japan since ancient times. Approx. 1.8 m. 1818 mm to be98exact.
[Isshaku] (1 shaku) A unit of length used in Japan since ancient times. Approx. 30.3 cm.
[Issun] (1 sun) One tenth of isshaku. Approx. 3.03 cm.
[Hitotsubo] (1 tsubo) A unit of area used in Japan since ancient times. 1 tsubo = 1 ken x 1 ken.

4.2.9 Terms Describing Building Structure[RC structure] RC is abbreviation for Reinforced Concrete. A building structure in which concrete ispoured into formwork with reinforcing steel bars and hardened. Also called tekkin concrete zo.
[S structure] S is abbreviation for Steel. A building structure that uses steel sections for columns andbeams. Also called tekkotsu zo.
[SRCstructure] A building structure combining S and RC structures. Reinforcing bars are assembled
around the steel section, and then concrete is poured. Also called tekkotsu tekkin concrete zo.
[Moku zo] (wooden-frame structure) A building structure that uses wood for posts and beams.
[Concrete block zo] (concrete block structure) A building structure made of stacked concrete blocks.

4.2.10 Terms Related to Electrical and Telecommunications Work
[Setsuzoku] (connection) In general, the term setsuzoku (connection) refers to connecting two or
more things. When communication lines are connected to each other, it is also called kessen (wiring).
[Haisen] (wiring) Running metal cables, fiber-optic cables, etc.
[Rikaku] (clearance) Separation of wiring and piping from each other. The distance is called therikaku kyori (clearance distance).
[Zetsuen] (insulation) To prevent electric current from flowing from one part to another.
[Kantsu] (penetration) To drill a hole in a wall, floor, ceiling, etc. all the way through to the opposite
side.

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[Kanro] (conduit) A pipe through which electric wires pass. The method of burying wires
underground using pipes is called kanroshiki (conduit method).
[Maisetsu] (underground installation) Burying electric cables, etc. underground. There are threemain methods of underground installation.
- Conduit method: A method in which rigid vinyl or metal pipes are buried and cables are passed
through them.
- Direct burial method: Wiring is done using dedicated direct burial cables.
- Cable tunnel method: A method in which a dedicated tunnel or common trench is built to carryelectric lines.
[Kaku haisen] (overhead wiring) This method uses utility poles to route cables into the building.
[Haikan suru] (piping) To install a pipe to pass a cable through.
[Tsusen] (wire pulling) Running cables through piping.
[Slab haikan] (slab piping) Piping that is buried in the floor or ceiling of a building.
[MDF] Abbreviation for Main Distribution Frame, which is a wiring panel used to manage andconnect communication lines from inside to outside of a building.
[Inpei] (conceal) To cover up with something so that it is not noticeable. For example, making air
conditioner piping inconspicuous by passing it through the wall is called inpei haikan (concealed
piping).
[Roshutsu] (exposed) To be visible on the surface without concealing it. The opposite of inpei haikan
is roshutsu haikan (exposed piping).
[Fuseru] (creating an outlet) Using end members to create a pipe outlet from the ceiling slab.
[Kanden] (electric shock) Electric current flowing through the human body.
[Roden] (electric leakage) Electricity flowing to parts where it should not.
[Secchi/earth] (grounding/earth) An electrical connection between electrical equipment or circuits
and the earth. This is done to prevent electric shock in the event of a leakage and to protect100communication equipment from damages.
[Hiraishin] (lightning rod) Equipment to protect buildings and people from lightning. It receives
lightning and promptly discharges the current caused by the lightning into the atmosphere.
[Hiraiki] (surge protector) A device that protects communications equipment, terminal equipment,
etc. from lightning strikes.
[Tanraku] (short circuit) A connection between two points in an electric circuit with a low-resistance
conductor. Also called short.
[Teiatsu] (low voltage) A voltage within the range of 750V or less for DC and 600V or less for AC.
Together with koatsu (high voltage) and tokubetsu koatsu (extra-high voltage), they are defined in the
Ministerial Order to Provide Technical Standards for Electric Equipment.
[Koatsu] (high voltage) A voltage in the range of 750 V to 7000 V for DC and 600 V to 7000 V for
AC.
[Tokubetsu koatsu] (extra-high voltage) This refers to voltages exceeding 7,000 V for both DC andAC.
[Acchaku] (crimp) Joining by applying pressure. In electrical work, there are special tools (such as
crimpers) for crimping core wires and crimp terminals.
[Chokuryu] (direct current) A current that does not change in magnitude or direction with time. Also
called DC (Direct Current).
[Koryu] (alternating current) A current that periodically changes in magnitude and direction. Also
called AC (Alternating Current).
[Tenmetsu] (flashing light) When a light flashes on and off.
[Hifuku] (coating) The vinyl or insulating portion covering the core wire.
[Ichijigawa/nijigawa] (primary/secondary side) The side where electricity enters the electricalfacility is called the primary side, and the side where electricity leaves is called the secondary side.
[Mashishime] (retightening) The process of checking for looseness of screws and retightening them.
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[Marking] After retightening, the screws may loosen due to vibration after a certain period of time.
Marking is done to show that this certain screw has loosened.
[Tsuden] (energized) Electricity is live.
[Ataru] (examine) To examine something. In electrical work, the word is used to check the energizedstate using a voltage tester or to check the voltage and current using a measuring instrument.
[Kashimeru] (crimping) To tightly fasten a wire joint by using crimpers to crush a crimp terminal
such as a ring sleeve.
[Shikomu] (prep) To prepare for the work in advance.
[Furu] (reroute) To change the piping or wiring route to avoid obstructions.
[Seru] (interference) When objects are about to collide with each other.
[Tobu/ochiru] (trip) When the breaker is tripped and the circuit is opened.
[Φ] Diameter. The correct reading is fai (phi), but in the building industry it is called pai.

4.2.11 Terms Used in Lifeline Infrastructure/Equipment Installation[Kucho] (air conditioning) Adjusting the temperature, humidity, etc. in a room. It is short for kuki
chowa setsubi.
[Ondo] (temperature) The degree of hot and cold. In Japan, the unit used is ℃ (Celsius).
[Shitsudo] (humidity) The percentage of moisture in the air. Humidity is described by saying that itis “damp and humid” when there is a lot of moisture and “fresh and low humidity” when there is little
moisture. The unit used is %.
[Kanki] (ventilation) Replacing dirty air in a room with fresh air.
[Haien] (smoke ventilation) To discharge smoke and other substances generated in the event of a firefrom the inside of a room to the outside.
[Eisei] (hygiene) Refers to protecting people's health and maintaining cleanliness. The term eisei

102setsubi (sanitary facilities) refers to facilities related to water (e.g., toilets, bathrooms, etc.), excluding
the kitchen.
[Shinimizu] (stagnant water) Refers to water in a storage tank or piping that has remained still andunmoving for an extended period of time.
[Bari] (burr) An excess portion of metal or plastic that protrudes from the edge of a product during
the processing process. Bari tori (deburring) is the process of removing burrs for a smooth finish.
[Gyakuryu] (backflow) Liquid or gas flowing in the opposite direction to the correct flow.
[Bunki] (branching) Splitting of a single pipe into two.
[Shinshuku] (elongation and contraction) When a material stretches or shrinks.
[Jabara] (bellow) Tubular-shaped object that expands and contracts.
[Lining] Coating the surface of pipes and ducts with a thin film, also called coating. Depending on
the thickness of the coating, a thicker coating is called a lining and a thinner coating is called a coating,but they are often used interchangeably.
[Roei shiken] (leakage test) A test to check for water leakage (called leakage) after the piping isfinished. There are also water pressure test, full-load test, etc.
[Suiatsu shiken] (water pressure test) A test to confirm that there is no leakage by putting water inpipes such as water supply pipes and hot water pipes to apply pressure.
[Mansui shiken] (full-load test) A test in which drainpipes are filled with water to confirm that there
are no leaks.
[Kobai] (gradient) A gentle slope to allow water to flow.
[Osui] (sewage) Drainage from toilets and urinals.
[Zatsu haisui] (domestic wastewater) Wastewater from baths, washrooms, and kitchens.
[Shin] (axis) The centerline of a pipe or duct.
[Saki] (end) The end of the piping.
[Tsura] (flange face) The face of the flange.
1034.3 Precautions for Communal Living
4.3.1 5S Activities
In order to create a safe, pleasant and comfortable working environment, an activity called 5S has
been implemented in Japan. 5S stands for five words starting with S: Seiri (sort), Seiton (set in order),
Seisou (shine), Seiketsu (standardize), and Shituke (sustain). At times, 3S activities, which take thethree elements of “sort,”” set in order” and “shine,” and 4S activities, which adds “sustain” to these
activities, are carried out.
(1) Sort
Sort refers to the process of separating the necessary from the unnecessary, discarding what is
unnecessary and putting away what will be used later. Sorting allows you to quickly retrieve what you
need to work on. Only bring materials to the site that will be used for the foreseeable future, and refrainfrom bringing in items that will not be used for an extended period of time, in order to stay organized.
(2) Set in order
Set in order refers to putting necessary items in their designated places. Keep materials and otheritems brought to the site parallel and perpendicular to each other, and maintain tidiness for easy access.
In particular, tools and other items that have been used should be returned to their designated places
so that they can be easily found by the next user. Also, report any damaged or flawed items to theperson in charge.
(3) Shine
Clean up after the work is completed so that the next workday can begin pleasantly.
(4) Standardize
Standardize means organizing, tidying and cleaning to maintain a clean standard. There are
generally set standards for when, what, and how much should be done so that cleanliness can be
maintained no matter who does it.
(5) Sustain
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Sustain means to teach the rules and give instructions to ensure that sort, set in order, shine andstandardize are being adhered to. It is important that everyone follows the rules that have been
established.

4.3.2 Workers' Break Facility
On the construction site, temporary buildings are erected to use as the field office and the workers'
break facility. The field office is a place for administrative work, meetings, etc. The workers' breakfacility is a place for workers to change clothes, eat, and take a break. Make sure to follow theestablished rules in the workers’ break facility to ensure that all workers feel comfortable.
(1) Smoke only in the designated areas
Smoking is not permitted on the construction site and in the break facility. Smoke only in theprovided smoking area. Hiding to smoke in non-designated spaces is also not allowed.
(2) Littering is prohibited
Throwing garbage away outside of designated places is called poi sute (littering) in Japan. Littering
is prohibited. Take recycling into consideration, and properly separate and dispose of garbage indesignated areas. If you find trash on the ground, actively pick it up and dispose of it in the designatedarea. Also, do not work while chewing gum. Not only does it lead to littering, but it can also lead to
accidents such as accidentally biting one's tongue when there is a falling object.
(3) Place helmets and safety belts in designated areas
Helmets and safety belts should not be left scattered after use. Make sure to put them away indesignated places before taking a break.
(4) Put personal belongings in lockers
Loss of personal belongings can be the source of trouble. Keep your personal belongings in a locker.
(5) Hand washing, disinfection, and gargling
When entering and exiting the break facility, take care of hygiene by washing hands, disinfecting,105

gargling, etc.
(6) Check the bulletin board
The bulletin board may contain not only information for everyone, but also information that is useful
to individuals, such as insurance information. Make a habit of checking the bulletin board.

4.3.3 Clothing Precautions
In Japan, there is a saying, “A disorderly attire represents a disorderly mind.” It means, “A person
who dresses sloppily does not posses inner beauty,” but on the construction site, it has the added
element of safety. The following attire is not permitted.
(1) Entering the worksite wearing short sleeves and shorts
There are many hazards on construction sites. Only the hands and face should be exposed duringwork. Wear work clothes appropriate for the work at that site. Do not enter the worksite in short sleeves
or shorts. Also, wash your work clothes to maintain cleanliness.
(2) Jackets with the front left open
Do not leave your jacket unbuttoned and open in the front. There are many protrusions at theworksite, and getting caught on them can lead to injury or accident.
(3) Rolled-up sleeves
To prevent injury, sleeves should be rolled down to the wrists.
(4) Walking with hands in pockets
Do not walk with your hands in your pockets. This posture hinders response in case of sudden falls,
which can lead to injury or accident.

4.3.4 Language
Communication is important for smooth operations at construction sites, and there is a term horenso

106that describes the key to communication. It is a word play using the vegetable called horenso (spinach).
Horenso is a combination of the words hokoku (report), renraku (contact), and sodan (consult). Be
mindful to use a cheerful tone, focus on the points you want to discuss, be clear, and state yourconclusions first.
Report: to inform seniors and the foreman of the progress and results of work.
Contact: to communicate job-related information, your schedule, etc. to your seniors and theforeman.
Consult: to tell a senior staff member and the foreman if a problem arises or if you have any
questions.

4.3.5 Cleanup
Always clean up after work completion. Clean up afterwards with the intention of setting up andpreparing for the next day's work. If you used fire, make sure it is extinguished.

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