skillfactor-pipeline/skills/bricklayer/references/tasks.md

Tasks & work activities — bricklayer

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 47-2021.00 (Brickmasons and Blockmasons).

Task statements

• [Core] Construct corners by fastening in plumb position a corner pole or building a corner pyramid of bricks, and filling in between the corners using a line from corner to corner to guide each course, or layer, of brick.
• [Core] Measure distance from reference points and mark guidelines to lay out work, using plumb bobs and levels.
• [Core] Calculate angles and courses and determine vertical and horizontal alignment of courses.
• [Core] Fasten or fuse brick or other building material to structure with wire clamps, anchor holes, torch, or cement.
• [Core] Break or cut bricks, tiles, or blocks to size, using trowel edge, hammer, or power saw.
• [Core] Remove excess mortar with trowels and hand tools, and finish mortar joints with jointing tools, for a sealed, uniform appearance.
• [Core] Interpret blueprints and drawings to determine specifications and to calculate the materials required.
• [Core] Apply and smooth mortar or other mixture over work surface.
• [Core] Mix specified amounts of sand, clay, dirt, or mortar powder with water to form refractory mixtures.
• [Core] Examine brickwork or structure to determine need for repair.
• [Core] Clean working surface to remove scale, dust, soot, or chips of brick and mortar, using broom, wire brush, or scraper.
• [Core] Remove burned or damaged brick or mortar, using sledgehammer, crowbar, chipping gun, or chisel.
• [Supplemental] Lay and align bricks, blocks, or tiles to build or repair structures or high temperature equipment, such as cupola, kilns, ovens, or furnaces.
• [Supplemental] Spray or spread refractory material over brickwork to protect against deterioration.

Detailed work activities

• Align masonry materials.
• Apply mortar.
• Apply sealants or other protective coatings.
• Clean surfaces in preparation for work activities.
• Cut tile, stone, or other masonry materials.
• Estimate materials requirements for projects.
• Inspect work sites to determine condition or necessary repairs.
• Install masonry materials.
• Mark reference points on construction materials.
• Measure materials or objects for installation or assembly.
• Mix substances or compounds needed for work activities.
• Plan layout of construction, installation, or repairs.
• Remove excess materials from finished construction projects.
• Remove worn, damaged or outdated materials from work areas.
• Review blueprints or specifications to determine work requirements.