Chapter B4 – Performs Site Preparation
The NOA for Carpenter (2013) identifies the required competencies (skills) for the task of performing site preparation. These are:
Assess and locate existing utilities
Plan access and egress to job site for safe movement of workers and efficient delivery of materials
Construct and install temporary structures such as signage, guard rails, construction trailers and outbuildings
Construct enclosures/supports for temporary utilities such as electrical, heating, water and toilets
Set-up storage for building materials taking into consideration crane location, safety of workers and prefab area
Prepare laydown area for materials and deliveries
Remove obstructions
Provide temporary protection of environment
Install fencing, control gates and hoarding to prevent injury to the public and loss of materials and tools
Lock-out/tag-out sources of potential energy (NOA, p. 26)
The first step in any construction project is site preparation which includes determining service locations, ground conditions, zoning requirements and environmental concerns. It may include provisions of temporary power and washroom facilities before the project begins. An important consideration is ensuring a proper laydown area is provided for delivery and storage.
Depending on the season or weather, site preparation may include hoarding. Hoarding is a temporary structure built to cover or enclose the primary work area to protect it from bad weather and to keep heat in the area if heated such as for a concrete pour. It is usually comprised of a wood framework covered by tarps. Hoarding is covered in more detail in the module on Renovations.
For additional information, review:
Brightspace Instruction sheet:
PROJ 402 Project Planning LO2 LS2 (p. 129-130)
IS 2.1 Perform Site Preparation
Text:
Principles and Practices of Commercial Construction, Chapter 2.
Review Questions
Why might a soil test be required?
What does the soil composition determine?
List some activities that take place during site preparation.