Basic Blocklaying

Be able to prepare to build block walling to the given instruction and specification.

Preparation for building

• read and understand the construction sketch for a wall
• read the risk assessment provided
• refer to any COSHH guidance regarding use of cement mortar
• conduct a dimensional check
• report discrepancies and corrective actions
• produce a requisition resource checklist with calculated quantities
• dry bond the proposed wall

Assessment Criteria

• 1.1

  Confirm instructions to establish work to be carried out

• 1.2
  Check that information sources comply with good practice guidance and the work specification.
• 1.3
  Record discrepancies in information relating to the work and report to the authorised person.
• 1.4
  Produce a checklist of the resources required to carry out block walling and form joint finishes.
• 1.5
  Select the method of laying block walling to the required specification.
• 1.6
  Carry out basic calculations to determine quantities of resources required for building block walling to the given specification.
• 1.7
  Carry out checks to ensure that resources are suitable for constructing block walling.

Be able to set out for block walling to the given specification.

Demonstrate masonry techniques

• position the mortar board correctly at the workplace
• select blocks for laying free from defects
• load out blockwork ready for laying
• set out wall first course dry
• check dimensions
• lay bed of mortar
• lay first course of blocks
• check line and level

Assessment Criteria

• 2.1
  Position blocks, mortar and components in a safe manner.
• 2.2
  Handle and lift blocks within safe lifting and handling guidelines.
• 2.3
  Set out to build straight block walls and return corners in accordance with work specifications.

Be able to build block walling using dense concrete and lightweight insulation blocks to the given specification.

Cutting blockwork

• clean cutting area
• wearing PPE – eye protection
• use of bolster and hammer
• cutting blocks

Demonstrate building blockwork

• build a straight wall to given details
• check line and level
• confirm wall is plumb
• set out a corner in blockwork
• build a corner with raking sides
• finish joints pointed flush and bucket handle

Assessment Criteria

• 3.1
  Prepare and cut blocks and components by hand in a safe manner.
• 3.2
  Build straight block walls to the given specifications.
• 3.3
  Return corners using dense concrete and lightweight insulation blocks to the given specification.
• 3.4
  Produce joint finishes to block walling to meet the given specification.
• 3.5
  Conduct checks on completion to ensure work meets the given specification.