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What’s in the Concrete and Masonry Certification Course?
This training course is OSHA-aligned and covers OSHA’s classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on equipment and anatomy, maintenance and inspections, safe operations and stability, common hazards, and more. This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, you will have immediate online access to your certificate of completion. You have the option to download the practical evaluations for the specific course. Although the practical evaluation is not a required part of the online course, we strongly recommend completing it under the supervision of your employer to ensure your mastery of the safety training topics.
During this training, we will be looking at the machinery and equipment you will use on the worksite. We will also cover safe operations in cement handling, concrete placement, vertical shoring and reshoring, and formwork. We will discuss how to safely handle prestressed and precast concrete and how to safely perform lift slab operations. We will cover proper masonry construction procedures. Then, you will learn about the PPE used in concrete and masonry construction. Finally, we will go over the most common hazards and examine case studies to determine how to avoid similar accidents.
Estimated Training Length: Because everyone learns and progresses at different speeds, the amount of time you spend taking this training will vary. However, the estimated time for this training is 150 – 180 min.
Intended Audience:
- Employees
- Supervisors
This course covers the following OSHA standards:
- 29 CFR 1926.700 – Concrete and Masonry Construction
- 29 CFR 1926.701 – General requirements
- 29 CFR 1926.702 – Equipment and tools
- 29 CFR 1926.703 – Cast-in-place concrete
- 29 CFR 1926.704 – Precast concrete
- 29 CFR 1926.705 – Lift-slab construction
- 29 CFR 1926.706 – Masonry construction
- 29 CFR 1910.135 – Head protection
- 29 CFR 1926.501 – Duty to have fall protection
- ANSI A10.9-1983 – Concrete and Masonry Construction
Why Take Our Online Concrete and Masonry Training?
Our online training course provides a substantial, thorough, and effective way to learn how to work safely. We’ve been providing industry-specific safety training solutions for individuals, safety managers, and business owners for over 15 years.
The online course meets the classroom requirement for occupational safety training. It also includes a proficiency checklist that employers can use to perform a practical evaluation, in accordance with standards and regulations.
We have fine-tuned this training to provide you with the best experience possible. Our robust training approach gives an interactive experience that helps learners retain information and apply it on the job site, preventing costly accidents and fines. Safety training is an investment. That is why hundreds of companies and individuals all over the world trust the Hard Hat Training Series for their online training needs.
Why Buy Our Online Concrete and Masonry Training?
- Complete Training: First and foremost our goal is to keep you safe and save you money. Don't risk getting expensive OSHA fines because you settled for a sub-par training program that didn't cover safety topics in depth. Train using a program that helps you retain what is learned so that it is put into practice on job sites.
- Cost-Effective: Hiring a trainer to come on-site can be expensive. In contrast, our online curriculum lowers costs while still providing a professional training experience.
- Records Tracking System: We offer an easy-to-use management system so that if you have multiple students who are receiving the training you can have access to all records, all-terrain certificates, observation guides and more! (contact us if you would like us to quickly create a company account for you)
- Train Your Way: You can use this online training program for new hire training, refresher training or train remotely. Access it from anywhere and work on your schedule.
- Interactive Learning: Special reminders and quiz questions throughout the course prep students for the final exam so that it is passed the first time.
- Corporate License: Do you want to host this course on your own server? Contact us about obtaining broadcasting rights for this and any of our other online courses.
The Best Online Certification Program—Concrete & Masonry Course
What is Masonry?
Masonry refers to buildings made of separate components that are joined together with cement mortar. Masonry can also refer to bricks, concrete blocks, and stone.
Masonry workers—also commonly referred to as masons—construct walls, pathways, and other structures out of the following:
- Bricks
- Concrete
- Concrete blocks
- Natural stones
- Artificial stones
What is Formwork?
The entire system of supports used with freshly put or partially cured concrete is known as formwork. Formwork includes mold or sheeting that touches the concrete. The shores, reshores, hardware, bracing, and associated hardware are also included in the formwork.
Is There a Difference Between Concrete and Masonry in Construction?
Concrete is a form of building material made up of conglomerate gravel, pebbles, stone fragments, or slag mixed in with mortar or cement.
On the other hand, masonry involves assembling structures out of single units that are placed and mortared together. The three most often used materials in masonry structures are brick, stone, and concrete blocks. Due to its many benefits, masonry is a widely used construction method. The actual building materials, such as stone and brick, are also referred to as masonry.
In simpler terms, yes there is a difference between the terms concrete and masonry. However, they are regularly used together because of how often concrete is used for masonry work.
Masonry Tools & Equipment
There are many types of machinery and equipment used in masonry and concrete construction operations. You, as an employee, will receive training on how to operate machines and equipment. We will go over the most common machinery and equipment you will encounter as well as some of the operating regulations.
We’ll also go over some specific things to look for during pre-shift inspections. Before using any of this equipment, you must make sure it has no wear or damage that would render it useless.
Concrete Mixers
Concrete mixers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The uses range from simple residential repairs to large-scale bridge construction.
Concrete mixer pre-shift inspections will differ depending on whether the mixer you are using has a gas engine or an electric motor. For more model-specific instructions, consult the operator’s manual. In general, you should check all fluid levels, including fuel and engine oil.
Check the tires for proper inflation and that they are not damaged. You should also inspect the tension and alignment of the drive belt and then make any necessary adjustments. Once that is completed, examine the Emergency Stop switch and lubricate the machine as needed. Additionally, ensure that all machine guards are in place and secure.
Concrete Trowels
There are various types of equipment used for smoothing concrete, like concrete mixers. Ride-on powered concrete trowels are commonly utilized for large operations. Walk-behind powered concrete trowels are ideal for in-between applications. Bull floats are usually the best solution for smaller operations.
A bull float is a tool you can use to spread and smooth the concrete by hand. If your bull float may potentially come into contact with energized electrical conductors, you should use one that is made of non-conductive material. You could also use one that is insulated with a nonconductive sheath that offers the same level of protection.
Check the trowel blades for dried concrete during your pre-shift inspection. They should be thoroughly cleaned before each use. Check to see that the blades are not fractured or twisted. Also, ensure that the fasteners that connect the blades to the motorized trowels are snug. Ascertain if the safety guards are secure and free of damage.
Examine the air filters for accumulated concrete dust. Check your coolant levels on a daily basis if the engine in yours is liquid-cooled. Look for oil leaks and check the oil level as well.
Also, look at the trowel’s drive belt. Rubber drive belts disintegrate in the heat, so pay attention to any excessive wear to the drive belt and replace it when needed. Finally, with walk-behind power trowels, check that the throttle cable is adequately greased.
Shores & Reshores
Shores and reshores are important pieces of concrete construction equipment. You must inspect all shoring and reshoring equipment before installation.
Inspect shores and restores to ensure that they will fit the specifications laid out in the formwork drawings. You should also inspect the equipment to see if it is corroded, bent, damaged, or broken. Check that the locking devices on the frames and braces are in good working order. Also, ensure that the coupling pins are aligned with the frame or panel legs.
Inspect shores that contain timber for cracks, cuts, missing sections, rot, and other structural deterioration. During and after concrete placement, all shoring and reshoring equipment must be examined. We recognize that adds up to a lot of necessary inspections; however, these inspections could have the potential to save lives.
If you come across any shoring equipment that is damaged, do not use it. If you discover damaged shoring equipment in the course of or after concrete placement during one of your inspections, you should report it immediately.
Concrete Buggy
Concrete buggies, also known as power buggies, are used as an alternative to wheelbarrows for moving and pouring concrete on construction sites. They are powerful machines capable of carrying up to 3,200 pounds of concrete.
In addition to checking for external wear and tear, you should test the brakes to confirm that they are fully functional. Check that the steering wheel turns with ease. Ensure that all of the fittings are greased properly.
Inspect the power buggy’s linkages to confirm they are all functional. Check the engine oil and hydraulic oil levels and add more if necessary. Examine the wheels for damage and appropriate tire pressure. Examine all of the controls to ensure they are properly adjusted, cleaned, and operating.
Concrete Bucket
Cranes lift concrete buckets to distribute concrete to particular areas on the job site. They are formed to allow concrete to flow efficiently through the bottom. Employees should never ride a concrete bucket, just like in any other lifting activity. It is exceedingly risky and unstable.
Concrete buckets also include adjustable gates at the bottom that open when the bucket is ready to pour concrete. If the gates are hydraulic or pneumatic, safety latches should be used to prevent the concrete from being dumped prematurely or accidentally.
During your pre-shift inspection, ensure that the concrete bucket is clean so that you can inspect the inside and exterior of the bucket effectively. Check the bucket for cracks, breaks, or defects, as these are signs of equipment failure.
Check the bail, which is where the hoisting equipment attaches to the bucket, for damage. In addition, verify all rigging hardware and slings before each shift to ensure they are not damaged.
Tremies
Tremies are used for underwater concrete pouring. They have conically shaped hoppers that sit above the water and take in the wet concrete. A tremie pipe connects the surface of the water to the underwater floor.
The bottom of the tremie pipe remains embedded in the concrete that is pouring out of it, preventing cement from being washed away from the freshly poured concrete. Sections of tremies should be fastened using wire rope or other similar materials to ensure that the pipe remains waterproof and reinforced.
Of course, it may not be possible for you to inspect the submerged tremie pipe on a regular basis. However, you should inspect it thoroughly before immersing it. Examine the pipes and hopper for cracks, fractures, bends, or other problems that could interfere with tremie operations.
Concrete Belt Conveyors
Concrete belt conveyors are cost-effective ways to carry concrete horizontally and vertically. Belt conveyors are most typically used to transport concrete that will be poured for large floors and bridge decks. They are also useful tools for delivering concrete for projects like dam or power plant buildings.
Every job site has individual concrete pouring and transporting needs. Therefore, there are three options for concrete conveyors:
- Portable conveyors
- Feeder conveyors
- Spreading conveyors
Portable conveyors offer mobility, which is optimal on job sites where operations regularly move. These conveyors are normally around 60 feet in length. At most, they can discharge concrete from a height of 35 feet.
Portable conveyors have a hydraulic driving mechanism that propels the wet concrete belt. Not all portable conveyors are the same, so you should become acquainted with the capabilities of the one on your job site and avoid exceeding its limits.
Feeder conveyors are used on construction sites for extended-reach concrete placement. They often have extending and retractable elements that do not interfere with the placing of concrete. Because these conveyors move more concrete than portable conveyors, it is critical that you plan for efficiently dispersing the concrete that is released. In most cases, feeder conveyors discharge into concrete spreading machinery.
There are two types of spreading conveyors: radial spreaders and side discharge conveyors. Radial spreaders have the advantage of moving in an arc and extending and retracting to reach around obstacles.
Side discharge conveyors are ideal for wide concrete installation. They work horizontally and run the length of the placement area. The diverter pushes the concrete from the belt into the placement area after it is discharged over the edge of the conveyor.
Concrete Pavers
Slipform pavers are commonly utilized to disperse freshly poured concrete when it is used in road construction. To put it simply, already mixed concrete is poured in front of the paver, which then spreads and levels the materials with a screed.
The machine should be equipped with a warning system that sounds when the paver moves or when the bucket runs empty. This will assist in keeping personnel safe when working around slipform pavers.
Inspect the machine completely for damage during your pre-shift examination of the concrete paver. Check the engine compartment and refill the fluids as needed. Remember to also look for any leaks, particularly in the hydraulic system.
Check that the lights and backup alarm in the operator’s station are operational. Check for the presence of a fire extinguisher. Examine the hopper for any leaks, material buildup, or other defects. Check for material buildup on the truck push rollers as well. Examine the tires for signs of excessive wear or damage. Finally, examine the screed for bends and damage. It must be securely attached to the machine.
Concrete Mixer Trucks
Concrete mixer trucks are big vehicles that transfer concrete from the manufacturing plant to the jobsite. They have revolving drums that keep the concrete from solidifying before it is poured. They have chutes that the concrete travels down for when it is poured into its final location.
Two types of concrete trucks are commonly used: rear-discharge and front-discharge. Two personnel are required to operate a rear-discharge truck: one operator driving the vehicle and one “chute guy.”
In front-discharge trucks, the chute may be operated hydraulically from the driver’s cab. Meaning these trucks only require one person to operate them.
In rare circumstances, the chute of a concrete mixing truck is not long enough to reach the pouring location. Instead, concrete pumps or conveyors are used.
Pay close attention to the components when inspecting the exterior of the concrete truck. These checks may appear time-consuming, but if done on a regular basis, they will take much less time.
Masonry Saws
Masonry saws are used to cut bricks, concrete blocks, pavers, and other materials of a similar kind. When these materials are cut, crystalline silica dust is produced, which is extremely damaging to your lungs if inhaled. As a result, most masonry saws use a wet-cutting system in which water is continuously delivered to the blade, capturing the majority of the dust created.
Masonry saws pose amputation and flying-item threats in addition to crystalline silica dust. There must be a semicircular guard mounted over the blade. This is to prevent mishaps and to trap any blade fragments that break off while cutting masonry.
Check the saw for the correct type of blade during your pre-shift inspection. A dull saw blade, believe it or not, can be more harmful than a sharp one, so be sure the blade is sharp.
Make sure the cord is in good condition. Check that the water pump is turned on and that the tank is full. Examine the motor and belts for damage. Check that the saw is level and that the guards are securely attached to the saw.
Concrete Pumping Systems
Before concrete pumping devices were devised, cranes were used to lift buckets or skips full of concrete that needed to be poured at heights. Lifting concrete one bucket at a time must have been difficult and time-consuming. The invention of concrete pumps sped up the process.
Concrete pumps are classified into two groups: line pumps and boom pumps. Line pumps work from the ground up. They have flexible hoses that allow them to reach around obstacles that a concrete mixer truck would not be able to otherwise reach.
Boom pumps move through the air using a remote-controlled arm that resembles a crane. Boom pumps are used to pour concrete in difficult-to-reach areas, such as the upper floors of an apartment building. Because it can fold into smaller portions on the back of a vehicle, the boom pump is readily transportable.
Any concrete pumping system that uses pipe must have pipe supports that can withstand 100% overload. This is required because concrete and masonry operations do not always proceed as planned. Furthermore, air hoses or pipes in concrete pumping systems must have positive fail-safe joint connectors to prevent the sections from separating when the system is under pressure.
Naturally, your pre-shift check of a line pump and a boom pump will differ slightly. In general, check the engine’s fluid and fuel levels. Examine the hopper and delivery hoses for evident signs of damage. Check that all of the controls are operational. Inspect the boom for functionality as well as the boom pipes and outriggers for damage on boom pumps.
Masonry Codes, Standards, & Specifications
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a multitude of safety standards that must be applied to masonry and concrete work. For the sake of the article, we will be focused on some more general safety standards that refer to masonry work.
Masonry Work & Construction Loads
No construction loads should be placed on a masonry structure unless the employer certifies that the structure is capable of bearing the weight. They must determine this based on information they have received from a qualified person.
Fall Hazards
Any areas where there may be protruding reinforcing steel or other building materials must be blocked off. This is to eliminate the risk of impalement if employees were to fall.
Post-Tensioning Operations Requirements
Unless an employee has been authorized and is required for post-tensioning procedures, no one should be behind the jack during these operations. Signs and barriers must be installed to restrict employee access into the post-tensioning area.
Working Under Loads
No employee is allowed to work beneath concrete buckets while they are being hoisted or lowered into position. Elevated concrete buckets must be managed so that no employee is exposed to the hazards of falling concrete buckets.
Personal Protective Equipment
Unless the employee is wearing protective head and face equipment, they will not be allowed to use a pneumatic hose to apply a cement, sand, and water mixture.
What’s in Our Concrete and Masonry Course?
Our Concrete & Masonry Construction Training Course is regulation aligned, and our online version fulfills classroom training requirements. Each class contains sections on equipment, safe operations, personal protective equipment (PPE), and common hazards.
More About Our Courses
During this training, we will be looking at the machinery and equipment you will use on the worksite. We will also cover safe operations in cement handling, concrete placement, vertical shoring and reshoring, and formwork. We will discuss how to safely handle prestressed and precast concrete and how to safely perform lift slab operations. We will cover proper masonry construction procedures. Then, you will learn about the PPE used in concrete and masonry construction. Finally, we will go over the most common hazards and examine case studies to determine how to avoid similar accidents.
This presentation includes intermittent practice quiz questions to prepare for the final written exam included with the course. In addition to the written exam, this course also includes a checklist for employers to use when administering a practical exam as required by OSHA.
Why Do I Need to Know About Concrete and Masonry Safety Training Programs?
OSHA defines a “competent person” as someone who “is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in [their] surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees.”
A competent person has the authorization to take “prompt corrective measures” to minimize or eliminate hazards. They have enough training and/or experience to be “capable of identifying workplace hazards relating to the specific operation and have the authority to correct them.”
Some standards do have additional, specific requirements that must be met in order for an employee to be considered a competent person. Our Competent Person training option fulfills these specific requirements.
Masonry Certificate
Your masonry and concrete certificate will be valid for three years after the issue date. Once it has expired, you will be required to either take a refresher training course or retake the masonry and concrete course you completed originally. This will be up to your employer. For clarification, reach out to a supervisor.
For more information check out our related articles What are the Hazards of Masonry Construction and What are the Common Injuries Experienced.
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