Describes a manager, inspector, or coworker who strictly enforces minor regulations and refuses to allow any flexibility. These individuals prioritize exact procedure over practical results. It is a derogatory term used by workers frustrated by a lack of common sense or leniency on the shop floor.
Heard on the job
The new safety officer is so tight-assed he wrote me up for having my safety glasses resting on my hard hat.
Also heard as
- tight-arsed