What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?

Competence in constructing brick and/or block structures and features requires evidence that work can be planned and prepared, that the construction site can be set out and prepared according to design drawings and specifications, and that the structure or feature can be constructed according to the required standards.

The skills and knowledge required to construct brick and/or block structures and features must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, a person should be able to apply the same principles of brick and/or block work construction whether they are building a wall, a barbecue, or some other garden element.

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

comparative environmental implications associated with soil disturbance and the establishment of drainage systems

components of mortar, including admixes such as bonding and colouring agents, used in the construction of brick and/or block structures and features.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required. These include the ability to:

interpret design drawings and specifications, and transpose the information to site

measure and construct profiles using mathematical techniques

use of levelling equipment.

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.

1. How can communication of ideas and information (2) be applied?

Information regarding the type of bonding agent to be used may need to be communicated to other members of the work team.

2. How can information be collected, analysed and organised (2)?

Information from design drawings and specifications may need to be collected, analysed and then organised to transpose it on to site.

3. How are activities planned and organised (2)?

Activities may need to be planned and organised to meet timelines and to finish the project according to budget.

4. How can team work (2) be applied?

Team work may need to be applied when setting out and preparing a site for construction.

5. How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques (2) be applied?

Mathematical ideas and techniques may be applied when calculating quantities of materials required.

6. How can problem-solving skills (2) be applied?

Problem-solving skills may be applied if the mortar is mixed to the incorrect consistency.

7. How can the use of technology (2) be applied?

The use of technology may be applied when marking out the site for construction.

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one?

This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function.

There is essential information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed, in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package. All users of these competency standards must have access to the Assessment Guidelines. Further advice may also be sought from the relevant sector booklet.

Range of Variables

The Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available

What tools and equipment are likely to be used when constructing concrete structures and features?

Tools and equipment may include levelling equipment, string lines, tape measures, spades, shovels, trowels, wheelbarrow and concrete mixer.

What OHS hazards apply to this standard?

OHS hazards may include manual lifting, use of power tools, use of sharp hand tools, dust, and sun exposure.

What OHS controls may be relevant to this standard?

OHS controls may include safe lifting and transporting techniques, the drinking of fluids, basic first aid, and the appropriate use of personal protective clothing and equipment such as overalls, boots, hat, gloves, the erection of safety signs and barriers, the identification of site access points, and the safe storage of materials on site.

What environmental implications are likely to be considered?

Consideration may be given to the impact of soil disturbance and the alteration to water flow during construction and after the structure or feature has been constructed.

What services are likely to be located on site?

Services may include power, gas, water, stormwater, sewerage or septic connections, phone and optical cables.

What drainage systems are likely to be installed?

Drainage systems may include sumps, agricultural drains, storm water pipes, slotted pipes, open drains and channels.

What finishes may be relevant to this competency standard?

Finishes may include acrylic render, sand/cement render, oxides and other colours, mouldings and cappings.

For more information on contexts, environment and variables for training and assessment refer to the Sector Booklet.