Sitework and Field Operation Terms
Sitework and field operation terms describe the work that prepares, controls, protects, and supports active construction sites.
Search intent
Use this page when reading field reports, civil drawings, logistics plans, excavation documents, or safety controls.
Common use cases
- Planning site logistics
- Managing excavation
- Reviewing compaction
- Tracking temporary power and access
Terms in this collection
12 linked definitions.
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Excavation | Excavation is the removal of soil, rock, pavement, or other material to create space for construction. |
| Trench | A trench is a narrow excavation commonly used for utilities, foundations, or drainage work. |
| Subgrade | Subgrade is the prepared soil surface that supports pavement, slabs, foundations, or other construction above it. |
| Compaction | Compaction is the process of densifying soil, aggregate, or fill to improve strength and reduce settlement. |
| Backfill | Backfill is material placed back into an excavation after underground or foundation work is complete. |
| Dewatering | Dewatering is the removal or control of water from an excavation, work area, or soil condition. |
| Erosion Control | Erosion control uses measures that reduce soil movement caused by rain, wind, or construction activity. |
| Traffic Control Plan | A traffic control plan shows how vehicles, pedestrians, workers, and construction activity will be managed around a site. |
| Site Logistics Plan | A site logistics plan shows how the construction site will be organized and accessed during the work. |
| Temporary Power | Temporary power is an electrical system used to support construction before permanent power is available. |
| Scaffold | A scaffold is a temporary elevated platform and support structure used for workers, tools, or materials. |
| Hoist | A hoist is a device used to lift or lower materials, equipment, or suspended platforms. |
Related collections
Construction Safety TermsSafety terms for OSHA, PPE, competent people, fall protection, excavation protection, and incident documentation.Construction Scheduling TermsScheduling terms for critical path, CPM schedules, lookaheads, milestones, float, constraints, and procurement timing.Construction Document TermsDrawing, specification, submittal, document control, and project manual terms used across construction documents.