Construction Skills, 1e provides the information students need to develop the fundamental building and construction skills required to work in the industry.

This text addresses four core and elective AQF level 2 and 3 CPC08 Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package competencies across a range of building and construction qualifications.

CONTENTS

Preface

Chapter 1 Working safely at heights
Introduction
Defining some terms
Working at heights: What does this really mean?
Hierarchy of control
Level 1 controls: Solid construction
Level 2 controls: Passive fall protection
Level 3 controls: Work positioning and travel restraint systems
Level 4 controls: Fall-arrest systems
Level 5 controls: Ladders and administrative controls
Best practice for common tasks
Worksheets
Glossary of terms
References and further reading

Chapter 2 Powder-actuated tools
Introduction
Regulation of the use of powder-actuated tools
PA tools: The basics
Safe use of PA tools
Loading the PA tool
Firing the PA tool
Adaptors and accessories for PA tools
Removal of fasteners
Maintaining your PA tool
Worksheets
Glossary of terms
References and further reading

Chapter 3 Elevating work platforms
What, exactly, is an EWP?
On the job: Using an EWP safely
Post-operational checks
Outriggers, road plates and pigsty packing
Safety around hydraulics
Worksheets
Glossary of terms
References and further reading

Chapter 4 Limited-height scaffolding
Scaffolding: What is it, and why do we need it?
Planning the job: Hazard assessment
Choosing the right scaffold
Working platforms and duty ratings
Scaffold assembly: Preliminaries
Modular scaffold
Frame scaffold
Bracket scaffold
Trestle scaffold
Tower frame scaffold
Tube and coupling components: Ties and other uses
Inspecting and maintaining the scaffold
Rope, knots, gin wheels and handballing
Consolidation: Creating the JSA or SWMS
A final word
Worksheets
Glossary of terms
References and further reading

Index

• competency-specific chapters which are technically up to date
• more than 260 line drawings and photographs which clearly illustrate concepts
• reader-friendly language and design which clearly explain concepts
• helpful step-by-step procedures illustrating key concepts
• a useful ‘On site’ box feature which contextualises theory and poses realistic problem-solving scenarios
• tear-out end-of-chapter worksheets which assess essential concepts
• a glossary at the end of each chapter which defines important terms.

Glenn Costin has over 20 years teaching experience in the VET sector both in Australia and internationally and is currently teaching in Albury. Glenn holds a PhD from RMIT for his research into skill development and its evaluation and is actively engaged in the VET sector as a teacher, writer and researcher.

Construction Skills, 1e addresses four core and/or elective competencies in 45 qualifications within CPC08 Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package.

CPCCCM2010B - Work safely at heights
CPCCCM2007B - Use explosive power tools
CPCCCM3001C - Operate elevated work platforms
CPCCCM2008B - Erect and dismantle restricted height scaffolding