Operations glossary.
Site work runs on shorthand. Here are the fifteen terms you’ll meet most — tap any to see what it means. Reading at least five will unlock your stamp.
Site manager
The person running the job on site - people, programme, safety and quality.
Programme
The timetable showing when each task happens.
Critical path
The chain of tasks that determines the overall finish date.
Snagging
Listing and fixing small defects before handover.
Handover
Passing the finished job over to the customer.
Method statement
A step-by-step plan of how a task will be carried out safely.
RAMS
Risk Assessment and Method Statement, together.
Plant
Machinery and equipment used on site.
Induction
A briefing that introduces workers to a site's rules and hazards.
Site diary
A daily record of progress, deliveries, weather and issues.
Slippage
When tasks fall behind their planned dates.
Subcontractor
A specialist firm carrying out part of the works.
Practical completion
The point the works are finished enough for the client to use.
Toolbox talk
A short, focused safety briefing given on site.
Variation
A change to the works, affecting time and/or cost.
Got the lay of the land?
Expand at least five terms to enable Mark complete — you don’t need to memorise them all now. This stays here as a reference, so come back whenever an acronym shows up on site that you don’t recognise.
Five expanded — you’re good to go.