Brickwork / Masonry

Course summary

Bricklayers lay bricks, blocks and other types of building components in mortar to construct and repair walls, foundations, partitions, arches and other structures eg chimney stacks. The range of sites and projects that bricklayers will work on include: large commercial developments, new builds in housing, alterations, extensions and also refurbish brickwork and masonry on restoration projects. A bricklayer may work one-on-one or on larger jobs where their bricklaying group (gang) may work on a particular section of a building alongside other bricklaying gangs as well as other trades. • Health and safety hazards, current regulations and legislation including COSHH/risk assessments and understanding the importance of method statements. Codes of practice and safe working practices, including asbestos awareness and correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE). • The principles of high quality customer service. Establishing the needs of others (colleagues, customers and other stakeholders). Respect the working environment including customers’ properties, impact on other trades and the project. Gaining and keeping a valued reputation in industry with clients, colleagues and industry representatives such as suppliers and manufacturers. • Different communication methods. How to communicate in a clear, articulate and appropriate manner. How to adapt communication style to different situations. • Different eras, types of construction methods, insulation considerations, sustainability, facilities management, fire, moisture and air protection. Fireplaces and chimneys. Damp proof courses and the use of brick ties. An awareness of the location of trees and services and their impact on foundation types. • The importance and considerations of thermal qualities, airtightness and ventilation to buildings. • Types of materials, their uses and their value. Types of bonds and their uses. Concrete and drainage. Cost awareness and environmental considerations/waste awareness e.g. surface water management and recycling. • Modern methods of construction, rapid build technology, alternative block, masonry, steel and timber based cladding systems. • Set out and build brickwork, including complex arches and surrounding brickwork, curved on plan, concave and convex brickwork and battered brickwork. • Set out and build brickwork, including complex decorative features, obtuse/acute angle quoins and reinforced brickwork. • Select materials and resources required to set out and build fireplaces and chimneys using materials such as hearths, plinths, flue liners, chimney pots and other modern methods.