Scope

Bricklayers build and repair walls, floors, arches, pavings, partitions, fireplaces, chimneys, smokestacks and other structures. They work with materials such as brick, natural stone, manufactured stone, tiles, precast masonry panels, glass blocks, concrete blocks, light-weight insulated panels, other masonry units, insulation and membranes. They erect, install, maintain, repair and alter various masonry. The structures vary in complexity from a simple masonry walkway to an ornate exterior on a multi level building.

Bricklayers work on industrial, commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They may specialize in stone work, restoration work or ornamental work. They may also specialize in installing refractory brick in high-temperature boilers and furnaces, or installing refractory tile to line acid or corrosion resistant tanks and vessels.

Key attributes for people in this trade are manual dexterity, mechanical aptitude, the ability to problem solve and think sequentially, and the ability to work at heights. Bricklaying is physically demanding work and requires considerable effort in lifting heavy materials, climbing, bending, kneeling and working on scaffolding.

Most of the work is performed outdoors, exposing bricklayers to the elements. The winterization of job sites allows the work to continue year round. Construction safety and accident prevention is a priority.

This analysis recognizes similarities or overlaps with the work of tilesetters, concrete finishers and carpenters.

Experienced bricklayers may advance to supervisory positions for masonry contractors or in other related fields such as construction management, estimating or building inspection.

Observations

There is an increased use of mast climber scaffolding systems resulting in a reduction in labour needs and an increase in production due to working at optimum working heights. It also has reduced the physical strain on bricklayers.

In addition to continued reliance upon traditional masonry installation, there is a trend toward increased preference for surface bonded units (SBUs) which are easier to install and can be used in more applications. There is a greater variety of manufactured stone that is being used as an alternative to natural stone and brick.

Refractory materials are improving in quality resulting in longer life of the masonry units.

Safety

Safe working procedures and conditions, accident prevention, and the preservation of health are of primary importance to industry in Canada. These responsibilities are shared and require the joint efforts of government, employers and employees. It is imperative that all parties become aware of circumstances that may lead to injury or harm. Safe learning experiences and work environments can be created by controlling the variables and behaviours that may contribute to accidents or injury.

It is generally recognized that safety-conscious attitudes and work practices contribute to a healthy, safe and accident-free work environment.

It is imperative to apply and be familiar with the Occupational Health and Safety Acts and Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Regulations. As well, it is essential to determine workplace hazards and take measures to protect oneself, co-workers, the public and the environment.

Safety education is an integral part of training in all jurisdictions. As safety is an imperative part of all trades, it is assumed and therefore it is not included as a qualifier of any activities. However, the technical safety tasks and sub-tasks specific to the trade are included in this analysis.

Job Titles