PART 1: Assessments information: This part contains information on assessments for this unit of competency and how assessment will be conducted throughout the unit to achieve the competency. It includes:

This assessment booklet and tool has been designed for students undertaking face to face mode of study to provide information before students take assessments and contains assessment tools to assess the skills and knowledge required from students to be deemed competent in this unit.

This booklet might not be suitable for students taking other modes of study e.g. online or work based.

Please read all the information given to you when you receive this assessment booklet. If you do not understand any part of this booklet, please inform your assessor/trainer.

The assessment booklet contains two (2) parts:

PART 1: Assessments information: This part contains information on assessments for this unit of competency and how assessment will be conducted throughout the unit to achieve the competency. It includes:

●     Application of the unit of competency.

●     Purpose of assessment.

●     Elements, performance evidence and knowledge evidence requirements of the unit.

●     Conditions, context, required resources and location of the assessment.

●     Assessment tasks.

●     Outline of evidence to be collected.

PART 2: Assessment tasks: This part contains the information to successfully undertake the assessment task. In each assessment task, students will find the following information:

●     Task instructions.

●     Role play / Practical Demonstration information/Scenario information.

●     Information on resources required, where applicable

●     Appendix 1- Resources required for the unit.

The following section within the document specifies and provides information regarding the assessments that the students will complete for this unit of competency.

Students will find all the necessary information to complete the assessment tasks such as:

●     Purpose of the assessment

●     Context and Conditions for the assessment

●     The resources required

●     Performance evidence

●     Knowledge Evidence

●     Brief description of the assessment tasks to be conducted

Purpose of the Assessment

The purpose of the assessment is to determine competency in the unit CPCCBL2002 – Use bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment.

Context and Conditions for Assessment

To comply with the assessment conditions of this unit:

●     You must demonstrate adequate skills and knowledge evidence by providing a satisfactory outcome for each assessment task. You will be marked against the recommended model answers in the trainer and assessor guide.

●     You will have access to suitable facilities, equipment and resources, including template documentation e.g. Work Plan Template.

●     EIC COLLEGE will conduct the practical assessment for this unit in its workshop- ‘EIC Construction Workshop’

●     Access to a range of documents and equipment found in the workshop (Please refer to Appendix 1 at the end of this assessment tool for the detailed list of assessment resources).

●     Knowledge assessment for this unit will be conducted at the EIC COLLEGE classroom at the location identified in the timetable.

Resources Required

In addition to the resources specified below, you will be required to have access to task resource requirements specified before each task:

●     Computers with access to the internet and printers

●     Learner guide for unit CPCCBL2002.

Performance Evidence

To demonstrate competency in this unit, a candidate must meet the performance criteria of this unit by assisting in at least one bricklaying or blocklaying project.

In doing this, the candidate must:

●     Conduct a pre-operation check on equipment

●     Set up and safely use the following tools and equipment:

–    Wheelbarrow

–    Hand brick grab to load the job

–    Cement mixer to mix consistent mortar for the project

–    Wet cut brick saw to cut bricks and blocks accurately

to varying sizes and shapes

–    Hand and power assisted tools and equipment

appropriate for the project

●     Use hand tools to achieve three different joint finishes

●     Wear appropriate personal protective equipment:

–    Hearing protection

–    Mask or appropriate respirator for the cutting task/s.

Knowledge evidence

To be competent in this unit, a person must demonstrate knowledge of:

●     Terminology relating to bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment

●     Basic construction terminology

●     Features and purpose of plans and specifications

●     Manufacturer’s specifications and instructions for tools and equipment:

–    Safety requirements during operation

–    Location and purpose of parts

–    Uses and limitations

–    Cleanliness and maintenance

–    Troubleshooting problems

●     Functional and operational features of plant, equipment and hand and power tools:

–    Wheel barrow

–    Spirit, pocket and water level

–    Automatic and laser level

–    Trowels and jointing tools

–    Corner blocks and string lines

–    Tingle plate

–    Profiles and straight edges

–    Bolster chisels

–    Mash hammer/lump hammer

–    Builder square and sliding bevels

–    Power drills

–    Battery operated tools

–    Pallet trolleys

–    Materials hoist

–    Brick buggies

–    Elevators

–    Small petrol or diesel engines, compressors or mixers

–    Forklifts

●     The characteristics and application of specified materials for bricklaying and blocklaying

●     Processes and techniques for:

–    Manual handling

–    Mechanical handling

●     Workplace safety:

–    Job safety and environmental analysis (JSEA)

–    Electrical safety

–    Noise reduction

–    Dust suppression

–    Working at heights

–    Exposure to silica

–    Exposure to loud noise

●     Environmental requirements relating to workplace processes and waste disposal.

Assessment Tasks

To achieve competency in this unit, you must satisfactorily complete all the following assessment tasks within the date and time specified in the session plan. This will demonstrate that you have all the required skills and knowledge for this unit.

Assessment tasks

Assessment description

Location of the assessment

Assessment Task 1 (AT1): Worksheets

This assessment task is short answer question which demonstrates that you have the required knowledge to use bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment.

You will be given 4 Hours to complete this task.

This assessment will be conducted at EIC College classroom

Assessment Task 2 (AT2): Practical Demonstration

This is Practical Demonstration in EIC College’s workshop where you are required to practically demonstrate your skills by assisting in at least one bricklaying or blocklaying project including safe and effective use of bricklaying and blocklaying tools and

equipment. You will be given 8 hours to complete this task.

This assessment will be conducted at EIC College’s construction workshop

●     This section contains all the assessment tasks that the students will complete for CPCCBL2002 – Use bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment.

●     You will have access to all the resources as specified in the Task Resource Requirements.

Student Detail

Student Name

Student Id:

Group No (If Applicable):

Assessment Details

Unit of Competency

CPCCBL2002 – Use bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment

Assessment Task

Worksheets

Due Date

Date of Submission

Date

Student Plagiarism Declaration: By submitting this assessment to the college, I declare that this assessment task is original and has not been copied or taken from another source except where this work has been correctly acknowledged. I have made a photocopy or electronic copy or photograph of my assessment task, which I can produce if the original is lost.

Assessor

Student

I declare that I have conducted a fair, valid, reliable and flexible assessment with this student. I have provided appropriate feedback to the student and declare that I have undertaken the indicated assessment integrity checks.

I have received, discussed and accepted my result as above for this task and I am aware of my appeal rights.

To be completed by the Assessor (Please tick the appropriate option)

Google check for plagiarism

 Yes  No

Check for copying/collusion

 Yes  No

Check for authenticity (own work)

 Yes  No

Cheating or use of sample response

 Yes  No

Assessor Signature

Student Signature

Task Resource Requirements

You must have access to the below-listed resources in addition to the resources listed in ‘Resources Required’ in ‘Assessment Information’

●     Student assessment Booklet

Instructions for the Student

This assessment will be conducted in the EIC College classroom with access to the resources listed above.

You must answer all knowledge questions as part of this assessment and you must submit answers electronically. The assessor may verify the authenticity of your work by asking questions regarding

the answers provided.

Planning the Assessment

●     Recommended date for assessment –                      [Assessor to set a date as per time table]

●     Access all resources mentioned in required resources either printed copies or access via the internet

●     Time required for assessment: 4 hours

●     You must:

–      Answer all the questions satisfactorily to be deemed competent.

–      Complete the assessment and submit in due timelines.

–      Submit with a completed assessment cover sheet.

●     Your assessor must set a time to provide feedback.

Evidence Specifications

At the end of the assessment, you will be required to submit the following evidence before the due date specified by the assessor:

●     You are required to submit completed worksheets that requires you to answer in brief

●     Completed and signed cover sheet for assessment

Evidence Submission

●     Documentation must be submitted electronically.

●     Your assessor will record the assessment outcome on the assessment cover sheet.

Question 1

Outline the terminology related to bricklaying and blocklaying tools and equipment given in column 1 of the table.

Terminology

Explanation

Trowel

A trowel is a flat, hand-held tool used for scooping, spreading, and smoothing mortar or other materials.

Brick Hammer

A brick hammer is a dual-purpose tool used for cutting bricks and for driving stakes or nails. One end is a chisel-like blade, while the other is a flat hammerhead.

Jointer

A jointer is a tool used to create a clean, finished joint in mortar between bricks or blocks. There are various types of jointers that create different joint profiles, such as concave, V-shaped, or flat.

Chalk Line

A chalk line is a tool used to create a straight line on a surface. It consists of a string in a container filled with powdered chalk. When the string is stretched taut and plucked, it leaves a straight line of chalk on the surface.

Mortar Board

A mortar board is a flat, square board or tray on which mortar is placed and held by the mason for easy access while laying bricks or blocks.

Masonry Saw

A masonry saw is a power tool with a diamond-tipped blade used for cutting bricks, concrete blocks, and other hard materials. It’s often used to make precise cuts for corners, openings, or irregular shapes.

Block Spacer

A block spacer is a small plastic or metal tool used to ensure uniform spacing between concrete blocks. It helps maintain consistent mortar joint thickness.

Grout Bag

A grout bag is a funnel-shaped bag, similar to a pastry bag, used to apply mortar or grout into vertical joints or hard-to-reach areas with more precision than a trowel.

Rebar Cutter

A rebar cutter is a tool, either manual or hydraulic, used to cut steel reinforcing bars (rebar) to the required length before they are placed within the masonry for structural support.

Brick ties

Brick ties are small metal strips or wires used to connect a brick or stone veneer to the main structural frame or wall of a building, providing stability and support.

Please select the appropriate option

Satisfactory

Not satisfactory

Question 2

Explain the basic construction terminology given in column 1 of the table.

Terminology

Explanation

Course

A continuous, horizontal layer of bricks, blocks, or other masonry units in a wall. Think of it as a single row in a stack.

Bed

The horizontal layer of mortar on which a course of bricks or blocks is laid. It provides a level surface and bonds the units together.

Face

The outer, exposed surface of a wall, which is typically finished and visible.

Hearting

The inner, core section of a thick masonry wall, located between the outer and inner “faces.” It’s often filled with broken brick pieces or rubble to provide bulk and stability.

Joints

The spaces between individual bricks or blocks that are filled with mortar. They bond the units, distribute loads, and prevent moisture from entering.

Header

A brick or block laid with its shorter end exposed on the face of the wall. Headers are used to provide structural stability by tying the wall together.

Stretcher

A brick or block laid with its longer face exposed on the face of the wall. This is the most common orientation for bricks.

Bond

The systematic arrangement of bricks or blocks in a wall to ensure structural stability and create a specific pattern. The pattern formed by headers and stretchers is a key part of the bond.

Frog

A depression or indentation in the top surface of a brick. It reduces the brick’s weight and provides a space for mortar to create a stronger bond when the next course is laid on top.

Lintel

A horizontal structural beam placed over an opening (like a door or window) to support the weight of the wall or structure above it and transfer that load to the surrounding vertical walls.

Please select the appropriate option

Satisfactory

Not satisfactory

Question 3

Answer the following questions

a.  What are plans and specifications?

Plans and specifications are a set of detailed documents used in construction to define and guide a building project. These documents are often referred to as “plans and specs.”

Plans

Plans, also known as blueprints or drawings, are the graphical part of the project documents. They provide a visual representation of the final structure.

They show the layout, dimensions, and arrangement of all parts of the building, including floor plans, elevations (exterior views), sections (cross-sectional views), and detailed drawings of specific components.

Specifications

Specifications, or “specs,” are the written documents that complement the plans. They outline the materials, methods, quality standards, and workmanship required for the project. For example, while a plan might show the location of a window, the specifications will detail its size, type of glass, frame material, and installation method. Specs ensure that the project is built to a certain standard and help avoid disputes by clearly defining expectations.

Both plans and specifications are crucial for ensuring a project is executed accurately, safely, and in compliance with building codes and the client’s expectations

b.  Explain the purpose of the following plans and specifications and complete the table.

Site Plan              A site plan is a top-down view of the entire property, showing the building’s location relative to the lot. Its purpose is to show how the proposed structure fits into the larger environment. It includes details such as property lines, existing and proposed buildings, driveways, landscaping, and the location of utilities like water and sewer lines. It’s essential for ensuring compliance with zoning laws and for coordinating with municipal services.

Floor Plan           A floor plan is a scaled drawing of a building’s layout from a bird’s-eye perspective, as if you’re looking down after removing the roof. Its purpose is to illustrate the arrangement of rooms, spaces, and circulation paths within a building. It shows the location and dimensions of walls, doors, windows, and sometimes fixtures like sinks and appliances.

Cross Section     A cross section is a vertical “slice” through a building, revealing its internal structure. Its purpose is to show the relationship between different floors, the foundation, and the roof. This plan is critical for understanding the vertical dimensions, construction materials, and how various structural elements (like beams, walls, and floors) connect and support each other. It provides details that aren’t visible in a floor plan or elevation drawing.

Elevation             An elevation is a flat, two-dimensional view of one side of a building’s exterior. Its purpose is to show what the finished building will look like from the outside. It provides details on exterior finishes, architectural features, and the placement of windows and doors. Elevations are used to visualize the building’s aesthetics, and they’re crucial for getting approval from clients and regulatory bodies.

Please select the appropriate option

Satisfactory

Not satisfactory

Question 4

Explain the below-listed manufacturer’s specifications and instructions regarding the tools and

equipment given in the table below.

Tools and

equipment

Manufacturer specifications and instructions:

Bolster chisels

Safety requirements during operation

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE): Always use safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying chips or debris. Gloves are also recommended to improve grip and protect hands.

Use the right hammer: Use a club hammer or a brick hammer with a large, flat striking face. Do not use a claw hammer, as it can cause the chisel’s striking end to “mushroom” (deform), which is a major safety hazard.

Maintain a firm grip: Hold the chisel firmly with one hand and strike it with the other. Ensure your hands are positioned safely away from the striking area and the cutting edge. Work away from your body: Always chip or cut in a direction away from yourself and others to prevent injury from a slip.

Inspect the tool: Before each use, check the bolster for any signs of damage, such as cracks, mushroomed heads, or a dull cutting edge. Discard any damaged tools.

Location and purpose of parts

●     Striking Head/End: The flat, sturdy end of the chisel that is hit with a hammer to transfer force.

●     Main Body: The shaft of the chisel, which is typically made of hardened steel and provides a solid grip for the user.

●     Cutting Edge/Blade: The wide, flat end used to cut or split bricks and other masonry materials. Its edge is designed to be struck and driven through hard materials.

Uses and limitations

Uses: Bolster chisels are primarily used for cutting bricks, blocks, and other masonry materials to a specific size or for creating channels in walls (chasing). They are also used for removing old mortar from joints.

Limitations: Bolsters are not designed for cutting metal, such as rebar. Using them on metal will quickly dull or damage the cutting edge. They should also not be used as a lever or pry bar.

Cleanliness and maintenance

Cleaning: After each use, wipe the bolster clean with a soft cloth to remove dust, debris, and moisture.

Sharpening: A dull chisel requires more force and is more likely to slip. Regularly sharpen the cutting edge using a grinding wheel or file to maintain its effectiveness and safety.

Rust Prevention: Apply a thin layer of

rust-preventative oil to the metal parts of the chisel, especially if it will be stored for a long period.

Storage: Store the chisel in a dry place, preferably with the blade protected by a cover to prevent damage to the edge and potential injury.

Troubleshooting problems

●     Dull cutting edge: Sharpen the blade. A dull blade can be a safety hazard, as it’s more likely to slip.

●     Mushroomed head: A mushroomed or burred striking head is very dangerous, as chips can break off and cause injury. The head should be ground back to a flat, safe surface. If heavily damaged, the tool should be replaced.

●     Chisel slips or bounces: Ensure the striking force is applied perpendicular to the chisel head and that the surface you are cutting is stable and

well-braced.

Power drills

Safety requirements during operation

Read the manual: Always read the manufacturer’s instruction manual before using the tool.

Wear PPE: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.

Hearing protection is recommended for extended use. Wear a dust mask if the operation is dusty.

Inspect the tool: Check the power cord (for corded drills) for any damage. Ensure all parts are securely in place and that the chuck is tightened properly. Never use a damaged tool.

Secure the workpiece: Always clamp or brace the material you are drilling to prevent it from spinning or moving, which can cause injury.

Maintain control: Use both hands to hold the drill firmly. Do not overreach and always maintain your balance.

Drill bit selection: Use the correct drill bit for the material you are working with (e.g., masonry bit for concrete, twist bit for wood/metal).

Location and purpose of parts

Chuck: The adjustable clamp at the front of the drill that holds the drill bit in place.

Trigger: The lever that, when squeezed, activates the motor and causes the chuck to rotate.

Forward/Reverse Switch: A button or lever that changes the direction of the chuck’s rotation, allowing the drill to either tighten screws/drill a hole (forward) or loosen screws/remove a bit (reverse).

Speed Selector: A switch or dial that allows the user to select the speed of rotation (RPM). Lower speeds are for harder materials and for driving screws, while higher speeds are for softer materials.

Clutch (on some models): A dial or ring that adjusts the torque setting. It is used when driving screws to prevent them from being stripped or over-tightened.

Uses and limitations

Uses: Power drills are used to drill holes in various materials (wood, metal, plastic, masonry) and to drive screws, bolts, and nuts.

Limitations: The drill’s power and speed capacity limit its application. For very hard materials, a drill with a hammer-drill function or an impact driver may be necessary. Using the wrong bit or applying excessive force can damage the drill or the material.

Cleanliness and maintenance

Cleaning: After use, wipe the drill clean with a soft cloth to remove dirt and dust. Use an air compressor to clear debris from ventilation ports.

Lubrication: Periodically, lubricate the chuck and other moving parts as specified in the manufacturer’s manual.

Battery Care (for cordless drills): Store batteries in a cool, dry place and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage to prolong their life.

Storage: Store the drill in a clean, dry location, preferably in its case, to protect it from moisture and physical damage.

Troubleshooting problems

Drill bit not spinning: This could be due to a loose chuck, a worn-out belt, or a motor malfunction. First, ensure the chuck is securely tightened.

Overheating: If the drill becomes excessively hot or emits a burning smell, stop using it immediately. This can be caused by using a dull bit, incorrect speed, or applying too much pressure. Allow the drill to cool down and check the vents for obstructions.

Loss of power: A weak or failing battery (for cordless drills) is a common cause. For corded drills, a worn-out cord or a motor issue may be the problem. Check the carbon brushes on brushed motors.

Unusual noises or vibrations: This could indicate worn bearings, misaligned components, or a damaged gear. Stop use and inspect the drill for any loose parts.

Question 5

Write two (2) functional and operational features of plant, equipment and hand and power tools in column 1 and their uses in column 2.

Tools

Uses

Wheelbarrow Features:A wheeled cart with a deep bed and handles. It has a single wheel for easy pivoting and handles for pushing and steering.

Transporting materials like bricks, mortar, sand, and rubble over short distances on a job site.

Spirit level

Features: Contains a liquid-filled vial

with a bubble. The bubble’s position indicates whether a surface is perfectly horizontal (level) or vertical (plumb).

Used to check the accuracy of horizontal and vertical surfaces during

construction, such as ensuring a wall is plumb or a beam is level.

Pocket level

Features: A compact,

small-scale spirit level, often with magnets for hands-free use on metal surfaces.

Ideal for checking level and plumb in confined spaces or on small projects,

such as installing shelves or electrical boxes.

Water level Features: Consists of a transparent hose filled with water. It works based on the principle that water finds its own level, creating a consistent reference point.

Establishing a level line over long distances or around corners, such as for foundations or fence posts, where a traditional level isn’t long enough.

Automatic and

laser-level Features: An automatic level uses an internal optical compensator to self-level the line of sight. A

laser-level projects a visible laser beam to create a precise reference line.

Surveying and laying out large-scale projects, such as setting foundations, grading land, or installing ceilings, by providing a fast and highly accurate level line.

Trowels Features: A handle attached to a flat steel blade. The blade can be shaped differently (e.g., pointed, notched, or rectangular) depending on the

task.

Used for spreading, scooping, and smoothing mortar, grout, and plaster.

Different types are used for bricklaying, pointing, and finishing surfaces.

Jointing tools Features: Small hand tools with a specific profile (e.g., concave,

V-shaped, flat). They are often made of steel or plastic.

Finishing and compacting the mortar joints between bricks or blocks to create a neat, weather-resistant finish.

Corner blocks Features: These are typically small wooden or plastic blocks with grooves. They are designed to hold a string line taut at the corners of a masonry project.

Used to accurately position and secure a string line to establish a straight and consistent line for each course of bricks.

String line Features: A durable, fine line or cord. It is used in conjunction with corner blocks or pins.

Provides a straight guide for masons to follow, ensuring each course of brick or block is perfectly straight and level.

Tingle plate Features: A small, notched metal or plastic plate. It is used to prevent a long string line from sagging in

the middle.

Placed along a long wall to support the string line, ensuring it remains taut and level over the entire length of the wall.

Profile and straight edges Features: A long, rigid bar, typically made of aluminum, with a flat edge. Some have a specific “H” or “I” beam profile for added rigidity.

Used to check the flatness and straightness of a large surface, such as a rendered wall or concrete slab. They are also used to scrape off excess material.

Bolster chisel Features: A hand tool with a wide, flat blade and a thick striking head. It is made of

hardened steel.

Used to cut or split bricks and blocks with a sharp blow from a lump hammer. It’s also used for chasing channels in a wall.

Lump hammer Features: A short-handled hammer with a heavy,

double-faced head.

Striking tools like a bolster chisel or cold chisel to break up masonry or concrete. It provides a heavy, controlled blow.

Builder square and a sliding bevel Features: A

builder’s square is a large L-shaped tool for checking 90-degree angles. A sliding bevel has an adjustable blade that can be locked at any angle.

A builder’s square checks for true right angles in corners or foundations. A sliding bevel is used to measure, transfer, and lay out non-standard angles.

Power drill

Features: An electric or battery-powered tool with a rotating chuck

that holds various bits. It often has variable speed and a reverse function.

Drilling holes in various materials (wood, metal, concrete) and driving screws. Some models have a “hammer” function for masonry.

Battery operated tools

Features: Cordless tools with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. This provides portability and freedom of movement without a power cord.

Used on job sites without immediate access to power outlets. They perform a wide range of tasks, from drilling and cutting to fastening.

Pallet trolleys Features: A wheeled jack with a pair of forks that can be inserted under a pallet. A hydraulic pump on the handle allows the forks to lift the pallet.

Manually lifting and moving palletized materials over short, flat distances, such as in a warehouse or on a construction site.

Materials hoist

Features: A machine with a cage or platform that travels vertically along a mast or tower. It is powered by an electric or diesel engine.

Lifting heavy and bulky construction materials like bricks, mortar, and

equipment to different floor levels on multi-story buildings.

Brick buggies

Features: A heavy-duty

wheeled cart with a reinforced frame and large tires designed to carry stacked bricks or blocks.

Transporting a large quantity of bricks or blocks across rough terrain on a construction site, reducing manual labor.

Elevator

Features: A self-contained

platform or cab that moves vertically within a shaft, operated by a motor and a system of ropes and counterweights.

Transporting workers and materials between floors in a building under

construction. In construction, a personnel hoist is often used, which is a type of elevator.

Small petrol or diesel engines, compressors or mixers Features: These are portable, self-contained units. Engines provide power, compressors

supply pressurized air, and mixers combine materials.

Engines power various tools like generators and pumps. Compressors power pneumatic tools like nail guns. Mixers mix materials like concrete, mortar, or plaster directly on site.

Forklifts Features: A powered industrial truck with a pair of lifting forks at the front. It uses hydraulics to lift and lower loads

Lifting, moving, and stacking heavy palletized materials, as well as loading and unloading trucks. They are essential for material handling on a large scale.