WORKSHOP PRACTICE

AND TECHNOLOGY

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 1

Brick/Block Laying Tools and Equipment

• Bricklaying and concreting involve multiple operations

which necessitates the use of various tools and equipment

• Some of these operations include mixing of concrete,

mixing of mortar, transportation of the mix, positioning
and aligning bricks or blocks etc.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 2

Brick Trowel

1. The trowel is a tool used for picking up mortar,

spreading mortar during brick or block laying.

2. It is also used in trimming or cutting off excess

mortar and tapping down laid blocks.

3. It consists of a wide steel blade with a length

ranging from 225 mm to 350 mm and a
wooden handle for ease of use.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 3

Pointing Trowel

1. This tool smaller than the brick trowel.

2. The blade measures between 100 mm to

150 mm.

3. It is primarily used for pointing, filling

joints with mortar.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 4

Spirit Level

1. This is also called Plumb level.

2. It may be made up of wood or metal
with straight edge.
3. It has three spirit tubes for levelling
4. and plumbing.
5. The single tubes are used for
checking the plumb of a wall
6. The twin tubes fitted at the center
for checking levels.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 5

 Plumb Rule

1. This is a straight-edge with a cut line running

down the center from the top to within about
150 mm from the bottom edge where a hole
is made slightly larger than the plumb bob.

2. Used to check the vertical faces of work.

3. Ensures absolute perpendicularity (plumb).

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 6

Builder’s Square

1. This tool is used to determine if the angle

created by two walls touching one another is
90°.

2. Available in either steel or timber.

3. Formed into an L shape when it’s made of

steel.

4. Shaped as a right triangle.

5. The hypotenuse is used to enhanced stability.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 7
 Lines and Pins

1. It consists of two pins made of high-quality steel.

2. Lines should be made of hemp and not too thick.
3. Used to transfer levels and align straight walls over 1.20
m in length.
4. To prevent corrosion, apply insulating tape across the
pin shanks before use.
5. After usage, clean the lines and pins to prevent
weakening and breakage caused by mortar droppings.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 8

Straight Edge (Range)

1. It is made of smooth-planed timber.

2. The Length approximately 2.0 m.

3. It can be beveled or straight at both ends.

4. Used to check the level or flatness of

newly laid walls, ensuring uniformity.

5. Application in plastering for achieving an

even surface before trowel finishing.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 9
Plumb Bob

1. This consists of thread and a lead

bob (approximately 2 kg).

2. It is employed for checking vertical

alignment in tall buildings and
pillars.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 10

Wooden Float

1. Made from timber.

2. Used to evenly spread mortar over joints

during block laying.

3. Roughens block surfaces, providing a key

for future plaster application

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 11

Maintenance Practices for Block laying and Concreting
Equipment
1. Clean the tools at the end of each day's work to remove any sticking mortar.
2. Avoid excessive cutting with the trowel; use a dedicated cutting tool when
needed.
3. Inspect the handle of tools to ensure it is rigidly fixed to the blade at all
times.
4. Protect the spirit level's edge from damage produced by impacts to ensure
tube setup accuracy.
5. Remove any mortar that has dried to the surface to maintain straightness
and allow appropriate viewing of the spirit bubble.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 12

Concrete Equipment
• Concreting is the process of pouring concrete for construction, whether for
new buildings or modifications to existing ones.
• Using proper concreting equipment and tools is important for obtaining a
high-quality and durable product.
• Concrete equipment are used in the production and placement of concrete,
with some tools having dual applications in block laying.
• These equipment include mixers, trowels, screeds, and power floats, which
are regularly utilized tools.
• Some concrete equipment is power operated, therefore operators should
have the necessary skills and knowledge before using it.
• Choosing the right concrete equipment is important for ensuring work
quality and efficiency, since wrong tools can have a negative effect on project
due dates and cost.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 13
Concrete Mixers

1. These are used in mixing concrete ingredients

(cement, sand, gravel and water) for specified
consistency.
2. This equipment consist of blades and inner drum
surface.
3. It can mix up to 0.75 m3 in 1min.
4. The mixer drum can revolve 18 to 20 times per
minute.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 14

Types of Concrete Mixers

• Batch Mixers
• Tilting Mixers
• Non-tilting Mixers
• Drum Mixers
• Pan-type Mixers

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 15

Concrete Vibrator

1. This is used for compacting concrete after placement.

2. The two types of vibrators are internal
(poker/needle/immersion) and external.
3. The internal vibrator is immersed in freshly placed
concrete, while external is placed on formwork or
surface.
4. Poker vibrator effective and used for mass concreting;
immersing it at intervals for a satisfactory results.
5. The external vibrators are suitable for pavements,
precast work, or canal concrete lining.
6. Effective compaction requires a minimum of 3600
vibrations per minute. Prepared By: Bashir, U F 16
Concrete Formwork

1. Formwork helps the fresh concrete to

remain in desired shape and position
until it gains strength.
2. It can be made from timber, plywood,
steel, or combinations.
3. Formwork corresponds to the profile of
the element to be constructed.
4. It is removed after the concrete has
reached a sufficient strength.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 17

Block Molding Machine

1. This machine produces hollow blocks of

different sizes and colours which is
primary used in the construction of
walls.
2. The machine designed for block molding
has a demountable mold.
3. It can be powered by diesel, petrol or
electricity.
4. It induces vibration to enhance block
strength.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 18

Cutting and Plastering Tools

1. Many construction products are manufactured in standard sizes and shapes.

2. This products may require trimming or cutting to fit into the construction
element.

3. It is essential in construction to shape and resize materials so as to meet the

specification given be the design experts.

4. Some of the tools used for cutting in construction include; Club hammer,
Bolster, Brick saws, Chisel, Block axe etc.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 19
Club Hammer

1. This tool is used in together with bolster or chisel for

precise cutting of blocks and concrete products.

2. It has a steel head with beveled edges.

3. It has a weight between 1.0 kg to 1.3 kg.

4. In has a wooden handle for effective use.

5. It is particularly effective for cutting bricks or creating

holes and chases in brickwork.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 20
Bolster Chisel

1. It is used for precise cutting of bricks or

blocks, often in conjunction with a club
hammer.
2. It has a blade width ranging from 50 mm
to 100 mm; the 100 mm blade is most
suitable for bricklaying.
3. It is not intended for cutting holes in
brick walls.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 21

Cold Chisel

1. This is also used together with club

hammer for cutting of holes and chases.
2. It is available in various sizes and length.
The sizes are (i.e. length to width of cut):
i. 100 mm x 6 mm
ii. 600 mm x 25 mm or 32 mm
iii.300 mm x 18 mm
iv. 350 mm x 18 mm
v. 225 mm x12 mm.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 22

Brick Saw

1. This is designed specifically for cutting

bricks to specified dimensions and
shape.

2. Its blade and handle are made of steel.

3. It can either be machine-powered or

manually operated.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 23

Hack Saw

1. Hacksaw is a hand tool utilized

for cutting through materials such
as plastic, steel, and other metals
to specified shape/ size.

2. Similar to a brick saw but smaller

in size

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 24

Ventilation and Safety in the Worksop
• Ventilation is a means of providing clean air (usually outside air) into a place
and removing air that is pollute.
• This supply of air can either be natural or mechanical.
• A workshop should have sufficient windows large enough to discharge
hazardous fumes and dust.
• Mechanical ventilation in a workshop is done by providing extraction fans at
strategic points in the workshop either in the walls or in the roof.
• The workshop should be kept clean and safe as this enhances the quality of
life.
• In a well ventilated workshop users satisfaction is increased, illness is
reduced, thereby contributing to higher productivity as a result of the better
working conditions.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 25
Storage for Tools and Equipment

• A storage is a space or place where building tools or equipment are kept

clean, dry and low humidity.
• It protects construction tools from damage
• Proper storage of tools is one of the basic requirements for safety in the
workshop.
• The tools must therefore be properly kept to avoid injuries as well as damage
to these tools.
• It is very important to ensure that these tools are kept clean, in their correct
positions, and under the right conditions as specified by the standard
requirement for each tool.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 26

Safety in a Workshop
• Safety is the protection of machinery and tools against harm and protection against
accidents.
• It is being free of danger and preventing harm or injury.
• The Factory Act
• The Factory Act was passed in Britain in 1961 and then implemented in Nigeria. The Act aims
to provide provisions that protect the safety and health of workers in any enterprise that
employs individuals under Nigerian labor law. This document outlines rules for the
following:

 General worker safety and health.

 Worker welfare refers to everything that may be done to improve workers' comfort.

 Tools and materials: Only items that are not dangerous to workers should be used as tools
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 27
Safety Tools

• Safety tools are used in order to

minimize or protect the users and
workers of the workshop from injuries.
Some of the tools include:
 Safety helmet
 Hand gloves
 Safety boots
 Protective clothing (apron, overall etc.)
 Face protector
 Ear protector
 Respirator
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 28
Safety Rules of Using a Workshop

• When using a workshop, everyone must be prepared to follow every

instruction and rule relevant to the safety of individuals and equipment. The
following are some examples of safety rules:
1. Ensure that the workshop is always neat.
2. Keep away unneeded tools and supplies, as well as waste and off-cuts.
3. Remove any flammable items, such as lumber, paper away from fire area if
left in the workplace.
4. Always use the appropriate tool for the job.
5. Never use files or other tools without handles.
6. There must be no rushing, leaping, or horseplay in the workshop
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 29
Safety Rules of Using a Workshop

7. All appliances should be turned off

in the case of a power outage.
8. Turn off any electrical appliances,
switches, and sockets when not in
use, and make sure you do this at the
end of each day.
9. Close and lock all doors while no one
is present in the workshop.
10. Train people on safety procedures
in the workshop.
11. If in doubt, seek guidance.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 30
Safety Habits to Adopt in a Workshop

1. Always wear safety clothes, regardless of the type of work.

2. Use protective glasses to safeguard your eyes.
3. Employ welding goggles for electrical arc or gas welding due to the bright
light.
4. Utilize a safety helmet in large workplaces or sites.
5. Wear appropriate hand gloves for hand protection.
6. Use safety boots to prevent foot injuries.
7. Employ face and ear protection when required.
8. Maintain a clean workshop, ensuring tools and materials are free of debris
for safe use.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 31
Causes of Accidents in the Workshop

• Here are some of the causes of accidents in the workshop:

1. Unsafe use of hand and portable power tools.

2. Hazards created by obstacles on the workshop floor.

3. Risks involved with lifting and transporting items and equipment.

4. Materials and tools are not stacked or stored properly.

5. The use of improper instruments, combustible chemicals, and a lack of safety

precautions places at risk health and safety.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 32
First Aid

• First aid is the first and most urgent treatment provided to anybody suffering
from a small or major disease or injury, with the intention of saving lives,
preventing the condition from getting worse, promoting recovery until
medical help arrives. First aid is often provided by someone with basic
medical training.
• The First aid box should be highly visible, usually coloured green and clearly
marked with a white cross, or coloured white and marked with a red cross.
• It should be fixed in an easily accessible place.
• They usually designed close to the wash hand basin in the workshop.
• On construction sites they can be kept in the site offices or workers’ canteen
or shelter.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 33

Materials in a First Aid Box

• Typically, a First Aid Box should contain the

following:
i. Various sizes of bandage
ii. Various sizes of sterile dressing
iii. Sterile eye pads with bandage
iv. Triangular bandage
v. Various sizes of gauze
vi. Safety pin
vii.Moist antiseptic cleansing wiper
viii.Cotton wool
ix. Dispensable plastic gloves
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 34
LAYOUT OF BLOCK AND CONCRETE WORKSHOP

• A block and Concrete workshop is a workshop that must run efficiently, easily,
and safely.
• This is possible if the workshop's facilities are adequately organized so that
supplies, tools, and equipment, as well as workshop workers, are easily
reachable. The usual block laying and concreting layout is outlined below:
1. Workshop Supervisor’s Office:
• This office is placed near the main entrance for easy access by visitors for
administrative purposes.
• This facilitates smooth entry without disrupting workshop activities and
allows effective monitoring of movement.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 35

b. Store Keeper’s Office:
• This should be placed near the supervisor's office.
• This allows him to act on the supervisor's behalf even when the
supervisor is not present in the office.
c. Tool and Material Storage:
• This is where tools and various materials needed in the workshop are
kept.
• This specific location stores cement, additives, and other related goods.
• It is placed next to the storekeeper's office, providing convenient access
and close inspection.
d. Loose Material Storage:
• This is where supplies like boards and scaffolding components are stored.
• This should be close to one of the workshop's entry points.
Prepared By: Bashir, U F 36
a. Block & Brick Stack (Store):
• This place offers a storage space for blocks and bricks in the workplace.
• It should be placed at a location in the workshop that does not restrict the free flow of personnel
and supplies.
b. Block Moulding Bay:
• This space allow moulded blocks to be kept until they have dry off and cured to gain sufficient
strength.
• It should be a place sufficient for all of the activities associated with block moulding.
c. Concrete Mixing Bay:
• This area has been reserved for the concrete mixer, which will be used to mix concrete and mortar
in the workshop.
• A water tank should be installed beside the concrete mixer to hold water for mixing the concrete.
d. Open Loose Material Storage for Aggregates:
• This is where the coarse and fine aggregates are kept.
• The concrete mixer position should be set close to the materials storage.
• This reduces the distance between the mixing point and the source of the aggregates.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 37

e. Safety Office and Equipment Store
• This is where the safety equipment are stored.

• This should be well labelled and close to the workshop's main entrance.

• This will increase people's safety awareness as they enter the workshop.

• In general, the amount of space available for each of these activities is

determined by the type and scope of the specific activity to be carried out in
the workshop setting.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 38

 AGGREGATES
• They natural fillers used in concrete.
• Aggregates consist of sand, gravel, crushed
rock, and various mineral fillers.
• Aggregates make up around 75% of the volume
of concrete.
• Concrete may be made using almost any
material that meets the strength, durability, and
soundness requirements.

Prepared By: Bashir, U F 39