Working in Construction
Bricklayer
Bricklayers build walls and other supporting structures. They need to know about a range of ways to lay bricks to provide strength in the structure.
Bricklayers need to be able to read plans and drawings to find out how the structure is to be built. They have to take account of where corners need to be or where gaps must be left for doors and windows.
Bricklayers often work high up on buildings, but equally might have to work in small spaces below ground, for example, when building access shafts to drain runs.
They normally work in teams of two, supported by a building operative who carries out preparation work for them. Bricklayers need to be fit, as the work can be quite physically demanding, and not mind working outside in cold weather.
Fence Erector
Fence erectors put up fences using a range of materials, such as wood, wire or concrete. The work involves measuring the area of land and working out the amount of materials needed to put up the fence.
The materials that fence erectors use depend on the purpose of the fence. Garden fencing is usually made of wood and usually consists of one type of fence panel.
Some fences are decorative and some may be specially made instead of pre-constructed. Both garden fencing and that used on farmland and estates might be put up on-site by the fence erector.
As a fence erector, you should enjoy working alone, with one other person or in a small team. You will need good practical skills and you must be able to measure accurately. For the measuring, maths skills are very useful.
As the work can involve lifting or carrying heavy things, it’s important that you are physically fit.
Roofer
Roofers cover new and existing roofs with materials such as tiles, slates, roofing felt or sheet materials.
On timber roofs, roofers lay felt over the framework of the roof and fix wooden battens into place. Then, they fix the tiles or slates. They trim some slates or tiles by hand to make them fit perfectly.
When using sheet roofing, roofers fix sheets of plastic, steel aluminium or fibre cement. For this job, one person needs to help hoist the sheets up from the ground.
As a roofer, you need to be physically fit as the work involves a lot of bending, kneeling and lifting. Good practical skills are important in this type of job.
You also need a head for heights as the work can be several storeys above the ground. Maths skills can be useful for people that want to become roofers.
Scaffolder
Scaffolders put up scaffolding or working platforms for construction workers to use. Some also build stands, for example, at sports events.
Scaffolders usually work in teams of three: a chargehand; a fixer; and a labourer.
The chargehand first lays timber boards as a foundation while the fixer and the labourer lay out the scaffolding equipment.
Scaffolding is made up of metal tubes, connections and fixing fittings, and wooden or metal platforms. Horizontal and upright tubes are joined together with fittings to form a framework which is put on the foundation timbers.
Scaffolders have to follow carefully the requirements of each job. For example, a stronger platform is needed for bricklayers, to support piles of bricks, than for painters and decorators.
Scaffolders also have to follow strict health and safety rules, and sometimes have to wear protective clothing.
As a scaffolder, you must enjoy working as part of a team and be careful in your work. Basic maths ability is useful for some of the work you’ll be doing.
Steeplejack
Steeplejacks renew, repair and maintain tall structures such as industrial chimneys, spires, monuments and towers. They work at great heights using scaffolding, ladders and ropes.
Tasks involve replacing or repairing damaged concrete, brickwork, stonework and roof tiles. The job may also involve replacing damaged glass, putting up steel chimneys, welding metals and painting.
For safety reasons, steeplejacks often work within a team. They also have to follow strict health and safety rules.
Steeplejacks must wear protective clothing, including a safety helmet, protective footwear and other items such as ear-protectors and gloves.
As a steeplejack, you must be physically fit, with plenty of stamina. The work involves a lot of bending, lifting and stretching. You also need a good head for heights.
As steeplejacks often work in teams, it’s very important that you are good at working with others.