Method Statement : Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork

Explanation

Masonry blockwork and brickwork involve the construction of structures using blocks or bricks, which are bonded together with mortar to form walls, partitions, and other architectural elements. The process requires precise setting out of door and window openings to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic alignment. Access to elevated work areas is facilitated through the use of trestles or scaffolding, ensuring safe and efficient operations. The task includes laying a mortar bed, placing bricks or blocks, filling gaps with mortar, and removing excess material to achieve a clean finish. Materials are delivered to work platforms either manually or via telehandler to a designated loading bay, ensuring a steady supply of resources for continuous workflow. The aim of the job is to construct durable, stable, and visually appealing structures that meet design specifications and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Site Manager: Ensure all safety protocols and procedures are implemented and adhered to on site.
• Supervisor: Oversee the masonry work, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Bricklayer: Execute the laying of bricks and blocks safely, following proper techniques and using personal protective equipment.
• Labourer: Assist in the delivery and handling of materials, ensuring safe manual handling practises.
• Scaffold Erector: Assemble and inspect scaffolding to ensure it is safe for use by workers.
• Telehandler Operator: Safely operate the telehandler to transport materials to designated areas.
• Health and Safety Officer: Conduct regular inspections and risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
• First Aider: Provide immediate medical assistance in case of injuries or accidents on site.

Equipment

• Brick trowel
• Pointing trowel
• Spirit level
• Tape measure
• Brick hammer
• Bolster chisel
• Line and pins
• Jointing tool
• Mortar board
• Wheelbarrow
• Shovel
• Bucket
• Masonry saw
• Angle grinder
• Mixing drill
• Safety helmet
• Safety goggles
• Dust mask or respirator
• Hearing protection
• High-visibility vest
• Safety gloves
• Steel-toe boots
• Knee pads

Operation

• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards and implement control measures.
• Ensure all personnel have received appropriate training and are competent in masonry tasks.
• Verify that personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, safety boots, and dust masks are available and in good condition.
• Inspect tools and equipment for any defects or damage, ensuring they are fit for use.
• Confirm that scaffolding or trestles are correctly erected, stable, and inspected by a competent person.
• Establish clear access routes and ensure they are free from obstructions and debris.
• Ensure that materials are stored safely and securely, with consideration for manual handling techniques.
• Verify that telehandlers or other lifting equipment are operated by qualified personnel and have been inspected.
• Set out the work area, marking door and window openings accurately according to design specifications.
• Prepare the mortar mix according to specifications, ensuring it is of the correct consistency and strength for the task.
• Spread a layer of mortar on the foundation or previous course using a trowel, ensuring an even and consistent thickness.
• Carefully place each block or brick onto the mortar bed, aligning it with the marked layout. Use a spirit level to ensure each unit is level and plumb.
• Fill gaps between blocks or bricks with mortar, using a trowel to compact and smooth the joints. Ensure all joints are fully filled to prevent structural weaknesses.
• Remove any excess mortar from the surface of the blocks or bricks using a trowel or brush, maintaining a clean and tidy work area.
• Continuously check alignment, level, and plumb of the structure as work progresses, making adjustments as necessary.
• Safely transport materials to the work area by hand or using a telehandler to a designated loading bay. Ensure materials are stored securely to prevent falls or collapses.
• Secure all tools and materials at the end of each workday, ensuring the site is left in a safe condition.
• Conduct a final inspection to confirm all safety measures are in place before leaving the site.

Risk Assessment : Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers | Apprentices

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Provide training on proper lifting techniques to all workers involved in masonry tasks.
• Utilise mechanical aids such as hoists or telehandlers to transport heavy blocks and bricks to the work area.
• Encourage team lifting for heavy or awkward loads to distribute weight evenly among workers.
• Organise work areas to minimise the distance materials need to be carried manually.
• Ensure that pathways are clear of obstacles to facilitate safe and efficient movement of materials.
• Rotate tasks among workers to prevent fatigue and reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders.
• Conduct regular assessments of manual handling tasks to identify and mitigate potential risks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Musculoskeletal Disorders : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers | Apprentices

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Provide training on proper lifting techniques to reduce strain when handling heavy blocks or bricks.
• Use mechanical aids, such as hoists or telehandlers, to minimise manual lifting of materials.
• Implement job rotation to vary tasks and reduce repetitive strain on specific muscle groups.
• Ensure workstations are at an appropriate height to prevent awkward postures during bricklaying.
• Encourage regular breaks to allow workers to rest and stretch, reducing fatigue and strain.
• Utilise lightweight blocks or bricks where possible to decrease the physical load on workers.
• Provide personal protective equipment, such as knee pads, to reduce strain from kneeling tasks.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Slips, Trips, and Falls : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Delivery Personnel | Subcontractors

Type of harm: Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury | Muscular Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all work areas are kept tidy and free from debris to prevent tripping hazards.
• Use non-slip footwear to provide better grip on potentially slippery surfaces.
• Regularly inspect and maintain scaffolding and trestles to ensure they are stable and secure.
• Clearly mark and illuminate any changes in floor level or potential trip hazards.
• Ensure that all walkways and access routes are clear and well-defined.
• Implement a system for promptly cleaning up spills or wet areas to prevent slipping.
• Provide adequate lighting in all work areas to enhance visibility and reduce the risk of trips and falls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Dust and Fumes : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers and Masons | Labourers | Site Supervisors | Nearby Workers

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Use water suppression systems when cutting or grinding materials to minimise dust generation.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) for workers exposed to dust.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in work areas to disperse dust and fumes effectively.
• Implement regular cleaning schedules to remove accumulated dust from surfaces.
• Train workers on the hazards of dust exposure and the correct use of control measures.
• Position cutting and grinding activities away from other workers to reduce exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Cuts and Abrasions : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers | Apprentices and Trainees

Type of harm: Cuts and Abrasions | Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Workers should wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as cut-resistant gloves, to protect hands from sharp edges.
• Ensure all tools are well-maintained and free from defects to prevent accidental cuts.
• Provide training on the correct handling and use of tools and materials to minimise the risk of injury.
• Keep the work area tidy and organised to reduce the likelihood of accidental contact with sharp objects.
• Use mechanical aids or tools designed to minimise direct contact with sharp materials whenever possible.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Struck-by Injuries : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Delivery Personnel | Adjacent Workers from Other Trades

Type of harm: Amputation | Back / Spinal Injury | Broken Bones | Crush / Entrapment | Cuts and Abrasions | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Frequent (5) = Medium (15) Controls

• Ensure all workers wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including hard hats, to protect against falling objects.
• Implement exclusion zones around areas where materials are being lifted or moved to prevent unauthorised access.
• Use mechanical lifting aids, such as telehandlers, to transport heavy materials safely to reduce manual handling risks.
• Secure all materials and tools on scaffolding or platforms to prevent them from falling.
• Conduct regular inspections of scaffolding and work platforms to ensure they are stable and free from hazards.
• Provide training for workers on safe material handling and the importance of maintaining awareness of their surroundings.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Working at Height : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Scaffolders | Site Supervisors

Type of harm: Broken Bones | Death | Head Injury | Multiple / Various Injury

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Probable (4) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure all scaffolding is erected and inspected by a competent person before use, adhering to relevant safety standards.
• Use guardrails and toe boards on scaffolding to prevent falls and falling objects.
• Provide safe access to work platforms, such as ladders or stairs, that are securely fixed and in good condition.
• Ensure workers are trained in safe working practises at height, including the correct use of personal protective equipment.
• Use fall arrest systems, such as harnesses and lanyards, when working at height where guardrails are not feasible.
• Keep work areas tidy and free from debris to prevent tripping hazards on elevated platforms.
• Limit the number of workers on scaffolding to prevent overloading and ensure stability.
• Regularly inspect all equipment used for working at height for signs of damage or wear, and remove defective items from service immediately.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Noise Exposure : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Nearby Tradespeople

Type of harm: Permanent Hearing Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Provide workers with appropriate hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, and ensure they are worn at all times when using noisy machinery or tools.
• Schedule regular maintenance of machinery and tools to ensure they operate efficiently and produce minimal noise.
• Implement a job rotation system to limit the duration of exposure to high noise levels for each worker.
• Erect noise barriers or screens around particularly loud equipment to reduce noise levels in the surrounding area.
• Conduct regular noise assessments to monitor sound levels and adjust control measures as necessary.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers | Machine Operators

Type of harm: HAVS / Vibration White Finger

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure workers use vibration-reducing gloves to minimise the impact of tool vibrations.
• Limit the duration of tool use by implementing regular breaks and rotating tasks among workers.
• Select tools with lower vibration levels and maintain them regularly to ensure optimal performance.
• Train workers on the risks of hand-arm vibration and the importance of using tools correctly.
• Implement administrative controls to monitor and record exposure times to manage cumulative vibration exposure.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Fire Hazards : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Construction Workers | Site Supervisors | Subcontractors

Type of harm: Burns | Death | Smoke Inhalation

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Ensure all hot work activities, such as cutting or welding, are conducted away from flammable materials and debris.
• Provide fire extinguishers and ensure they are easily accessible and regularly maintained.
• Implement a hot work permit system to control and monitor all activities involving open flames or sparks.
• Designate a fire watch person during and after hot work activities to monitor for any signs of ignition.
• Ensure all workers are trained in fire safety procedures and emergency response actions.
• Maintain clear access routes for emergency services and ensure they are not obstructed by materials or equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

COSHH Assessment : Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork

Silica dust

Silica dust is not an intended substance for use; rather, it is a hazardous by-product generated during the cutting, grinding, or drilling of materials such as bricks, blocks, and concrete.

---

Inhalation : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers and blocklayers | Labourers | Site supervisors | Nearby workers on site

Type of harm: Asbestosis / Lung Cancer / Mesothelioma | Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Use water suppression systems to dampen dust during cutting or grinding.
• Provide and enforce the use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) with appropriate filters.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture dust at the source.
• Limit the time workers are exposed to dust through job rotation.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to ensure dust levels remain below occupational exposure limits.
• Train workers on the hazards of silica dust and proper control measures.
• Ensure work areas are well-ventilated to disperse airborne dust effectively.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Eye Contact : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Frequent (5) = High (20) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent dust from entering eyes.
• Use water suppression systems to minimise airborne dust during cutting or grinding.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation to capture dust at the source.
• Ensure proper housekeeping to reduce dust accumulation on surfaces.
• Provide training on the correct use of personal protective equipment.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Cement dust

Cement dust is generated during the mixing and handling of cement, which is used as a binding agent in mortar for laying bricks and blocks.

---

Inhalation : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers and masons | Labourers handling materials | Site supervisors and managers | Nearby workers on site

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Occasional (3) = Medium (15) Controls

• Use water suppression techniques to minimise dust generation during cutting or grinding.
• Provide and enforce the use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) for workers.
• Implement local exhaust ventilation systems to capture dust at the source.
• Ensure regular maintenance and cleaning of work areas to prevent dust accumulation.
• Conduct air monitoring to assess dust levels and ensure compliance with exposure limits.
• Train workers on the hazards of cement dust and proper use of control measures.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Eye Contact : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers and masons | Labourers handling cement | Site supervisors and managers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Frequent (5) = High (25) Controls

• Workers should wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent cement dust from entering the eyes.
• Ensure eyewash stations are readily accessible in areas where cement dust is present.
• Implement dust suppression methods, such as water sprays, to minimise airborne dust.
• Provide training on proper handling techniques to reduce dust generation.
• Encourage regular cleaning of work areas to prevent dust accumulation.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Skin Contact : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Major (3) x Occasional (3) = Medium (9) Controls

• Wear long-sleeved clothing and trousers to minimise skin exposure to cement dust.
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to prevent direct contact with cement dust.
• Apply barrier creams to exposed skin areas to provide an additional protective layer.
• Implement good hygiene practises, including washing hands and exposed skin thoroughly after handling cement.
• Provide washing facilities with soap and water at the worksite for immediate decontamination.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Mortar additives

Mortar additives are used to enhance the workability, strength, and durability of mortar mixtures in masonry construction.

---

Inhalation : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers and masons | Labourers handling mortar | Site supervisors and foremen | Nearby construction workers

Type of harm: Respiratory damage / Asthma / COPD

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Occasional (3) = Medium (12) Controls

• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to disperse airborne particles.
• Use dust extraction systems when mixing or handling mortar additives.
• Provide workers with appropriate respiratory protective equipment, such as masks or respirators.
• Implement wet methods to minimise dust generation during mixing processes.
• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess exposure levels and effectiveness of controls.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Eye Contact : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers

Type of harm: Eye Damage

Initial Risk: Severe (4) x Probable (4) = Medium (16) Controls

• Wear safety goggles or face shields to prevent mortar splashes from reaching the eyes.
• Ensure eyewash stations are readily accessible in areas where mortar additives are used.
• Train workers on the proper handling and application techniques to minimise splashes.
• Use tools and equipment designed to reduce splashing during mixing and application.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

---

Skin Contact : Low (1)

---

Who might be harmed: Bricklayers | Labourers

Type of harm: Burns | Dermatitis

Initial Risk: Catastrophic (5) x Probable (4) = High (20) Controls

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves, to prevent skin contact with mortar additives.
• Use long-sleeved clothing and trousers to minimise skin exposure to additives.
• Provide washing facilities with soap and water for immediate decontamination of skin.
• Implement training for workers on safe handling procedures and potential skin hazards.
• Ensure proper storage of additives in sealed containers to prevent accidental spills.

Residual Risk: Minor (1) x Improbable (1) = Low (1)

Toolbox Talk : Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork

Introduction

Masonry blockwork and brickwork involve the construction of structures using blocks or bricks, which are bonded together with mortar to form walls, partitions, and other architectural elements. The process requires precise setting out of door and window openings to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic alignment. Access to elevated work areas is facilitated through the use of trestles or scaffolding, ensuring safe and efficient operations. The task includes laying a mortar bed, placing bricks or blocks, filling gaps with mortar, and removing excess material to achieve a clean finish. Materials are delivered to work platforms either manually or via telehandler to a designated loading bay, ensuring a steady supply of resources for continuous workflow. The aim of the job is to construct durable, stable, and visually appealing structures that meet design specifications and safety standards.

Hazards

The construction of blockwork or brickwork structures presents several hazards that must be carefully managed to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. Manual handling of heavy blocks and bricks poses a significant risk of musculoskeletal injuries, necessitating proper lifting techniques and the use of mechanical aids where possible. The use of trestles or scaffolding introduces the potential for falls from height, requiring secure and stable access equipment. Dust generated during cutting or grinding can lead to respiratory issues, making appropriate respiratory protective equipment essential. The risk of slips, trips, and falls is heightened by uneven surfaces and debris, necessitating good housekeeping practises. Additionally, the handling of sharp tools and materials can result in cuts and abrasions, while noise from machinery and tools may cause hearing damage if not adequately controlled. The use of telehandlers for material delivery introduces struck-by hazards, requiring careful coordination and communication. Fire hazards from hot work activities must also be considered, with appropriate fire prevention measures in place.

Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork : Rules

• Do conduct a risk assessment prior to commencing work.
• Do ensure all workers are trained and competent in masonry tasks.
• Do wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, gloves, safety boots, and eye protection.
• Do use mechanical aids or team lifting techniques for heavy loads.
• Do maintain a clean and organised work area to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
• Do ensure scaffolding and trestles are erected and inspected by a competent person.
• Do use dust suppression methods, such as water or extraction systems, when cutting or grinding.
• Do follow safe work practises when working at height, including the use of guardrails and harnesses.
• Do ensure tools and equipment are well-maintained and fit for purpose.
• Do communicate effectively with team members to coordinate tasks safely.
• Do adhere to site-specific safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Do report any hazards or incidents to a supervisor immediately.

Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork : Warnings

• Do not lift heavy blocks or bricks without proper manual handling techniques.
• Do not work on uneven or cluttered surfaces that may cause slips, trips, or falls.
• Do not cut or grind materials without appropriate dust suppression and respiratory protection.
• Do not handle sharp tools or materials without wearing suitable gloves.
• Do not stand or work beneath suspended loads.
• Do not work at height without proper fall protection measures in place.
• Do not operate machinery or tools without adequate training and personal protective equipment.
• Do not ignore noise hazards; always use hearing protection when necessary.
• Do not use vibrating tools for extended periods without taking regular breaks.
• Do not conduct hot work activities near flammable materials without proper precautions.

Induction Record

Company name:		Project title:
Location:		Contract No:

Subject:	Risk Assessment and Method Statement : Masonry Blockwork and Brickwork	Tutor:
Date:		Signature:

This document has been provided as a template. By completing the section above, you take full responsibility for the use of this document.

Name	Comments	Signature	Date