OSHA

Construction terms · plain-language definition, with its source

Construction terms · definition

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration — the federal agency setting and enforcing job-site safety standards. A contractor's safety record is a meaningful screening signal.

Source: U.S. OSHA — Occupational Safety & Health Administration

Where this comes up on this site

  • Contract

    The legally binding agreement between owner and contractor that defines scope, price, schedule, and responsibilities. A remodel should ne…

  • Partition

    A non-load-bearing interior wall that divides space but carries no structural load above it. Generally simpler and cheaper to move than a…

  • OSB

    Oriented strand board — an engineered panel of compressed wood strands and resin, commonly used for sheathing and subfloor. Cheaper than…

  • Permit

    Official jurisdiction authorization to perform regulated work, triggering required inspections. Unpermitted remodels can force teardown,…

  • Mortar

    A cement-based paste used to bond masonry or, as thinset, to adhere tile to a substrate. Different mixes are rated for different applicat…

  • Plumber

    A licensed tradesperson who installs and repairs water supply, drain-waste-vent, and gas piping to code. Relocating fixtures or running n…

  • Load-Bearing Wall

    A wall that carries weight from the structure above down to the foundation. Removing or opening one requires an engineered beam and posts…

  • Plywood

    An engineered panel of thin wood veneers glued in cross-grain layers for strength and stability. Preferred over OSB for cabinet boxes and…

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