Construct structures

This standard is for those who construct of structures.   It is suitable for employees and volunteers working in the land-based and environmental sector.

Structures may be permanent or temporary and could include pens, tunnels, bridges, hides, bins, planters and screens.

You must carry out your work in a way which will minimise the impact on the natural environment and enhance its nature, conservation and recreational value.

During both preparation and construction, you may have to deal with unexpected events such as accidental damage, or difficulty in conforming to the specifications.

If you are working with chemicals or machinery you should be trained and hold relevant certification in line with relevant legislation.

1. be aware of hazards associated with the activity  2. assess the site prior to operation to identify any restrictions on the planned work  3. select, prepare and use equipment and machinery, including personal protective equipment (PPE) where required, which meets the agreed specifications 4. select materials which meet specifications  5. prepare the site prior to constructing structures in accordance with specifications 6. check that the preparation of structures is consistent with the specifications 7. ensure any required foundations for the structure are in accordance with specifications 8. construct the structure in accordance with the specifications 9. carry out work in a manner which prevents damage to the surrounding area and environment 10. check that other site users are not put at risk by your work 11. maintain communication with colleagues and all those involved in, or affected by, your work 12. check the appearance and condition of the constructed structure meets specifications  13. restore the site to an appropriate condition following completion of the construction of structures  14. dispose of waste safely and correctly in accordance with instructions 15. handle and transport materials and equipment in accordance with instructions and relevant regulations 16. carry out your work in accordance with relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, risk assessment requirements and company policies

1. the importance of examining the site prior to commencing work with regards to hazards, assessment of risk and potential restrictions 2. the restrictions affecting the work e.g designated sites; presence of listed structures; wildlife; non-native, invasive or protected species, etc. 3. prepare for the construction of structures 4. the function the structures are designed to meet 5. how to select, prepare and use tools, equipment and machinery, including personal protective equipment (PPE) where required, relevant to the agreed specifications 6. how to interpret construction specifications and the importance of following them  7. correct preparation methods for constructing different structures and how these are related to timing and scheduling 8. the potential impact of your work on the surrounding area and environment and how to minimise this 9. the potential conflicts between constructing structures and conserving and protecting the natural environment 10. methods of constructing the structure and the relationship of this to its planned use 11. the context within which the structure is set, and how this relates to the specifications 12. how to use materials correctly when constructing structures 13. how to limit the risks to other site users when constructing structures 14. the importance of maintaining communication with those involved in, or affected by, your work and this should be done 15. problems which may occur during construction and how these should be dealt with  16. how to handle, transport and dispose of waste in accordance with instructions, relevant legal and organisational requirements 17. the importance of restoring the site to a clean and tidy condition following completion of construction 18. your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, codes of practice and company policies

A.  interpret the construction specification in relation to the following categories:

(i) security

(ii) quality

(iii) design

(iv) construction

B. maintain the necessary equipment by:

(i) cleaning

(ii) storing

(iii) checking and adjusting

C.  manage the following waste:

(i) organic

(ii) inorganic 

Structures: simple bridges, fords, steps, animal holding pens, sheds, polytunnels, screens, hides, compost bins, wooden planters, raised beds, tree guards.

Specifications: drawings, schedules, method statements, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), manufacturers' guidelines; customer requirements; organisational policies.