Construct boundaries or access points

This standard is for those who construct boundaries or access points.  It is suitable for employees and volunteers working in the land-based and environmental sector.

Local custom and materials should encourage the use of a wide range of styles and techniques.

Construction is defined as creating a new boundary or access point, or completely replacing a boundary or access points.

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.

The construction of drystone walls/drystone dykes is covered in VR567 build drystone structures from CSC.

This does not include safety, high security or electric fencing.

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

1. be aware of hazards associated with the activity to be carried out 2. assess the site prior to construction to identify any restrictions on the planned work  3. select, prepare and use equipment and machinery, including personal protective equipment (PPE) where required, in accordance with instructions and specifications 4. select material and resources to meet specifications  5. prepare the site prior to constructing boundaries or access points in accordance with specifications 6. identify the proposed line for the boundary in accordance with specifications  7. carry out your work in accordance with instructions and specifications 8. carry out work in a manner which prevents damage to the surrounding area and environment 9. check that the appearance and condition of boundaries and access points meets specifications 10. dispose of with waste safely and correctly in accordance with instructions and relevant legislation  11. restore the site to an appropriate condition following completion of the work 12. 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. the hazards presented by services on site and how to avoid these 4. how to select, prepare and use tools, equipment and machinery, including personal protective equipment (PPE) where required, relevant to the agreed specifications 5. suitable methods for preparing the site prior to commencing construction of boundaries or access points 6. the relevant regulations and standards relating to the construction of boundaries or access points, including building regulations, relevant health and safety, the environment and areas of special scientific interest 7. the construction techniques appropriate to the boundary, access points and surrounding environment 8. the types of ground preparation appropriate to the construction work 9. the context within which the boundary or access point is set, and how this relates to the specifications 10. the relative advantages and disadvantages of different types of boundaries or access points and the appropriate situations in which to use them 11. the potential impact of your work on the surrounding area and environment and how to minimise this 12. problems which may occur during operations and how these should be dealt with  13. how to evaluate the success of the completed work against the specifications  14. methods of protecting materials and structures during construction 15. how to handle, transport and dispose of waste in accordance with instructions, relevant legal and organisational requirements 16. the importance of restoring the site to a clean and tidy condition 17. your responsibilities under relevant environmental and health and safety legislation, codes of practice and company policies

A. identify the proposed line for the boundary from the specification and any special considerations which relate to the line including:

(i) health and safety

(ii) environmental impact

(iii) access

B. outline how to interpret and use relevant specifications covering: 

(i) setting out and location

(ii) materials and resources

(iii) timing and timescales

(iv) working methods

(v) suitability to expected use and local tradition

C.  construct the following boundaries below within the tolerances specified for the site

(i) fence 

(ii) wall

(ii) bank 

D. construct the following access points:

(i) gates (wooden/metal)

(ii) stiles

(iii) steps

Boundaries could be fences, walls, banks.

Access points through such boundaries could be stiles, gates, steps.

Specifications include drawings, schedules, method statements, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and manufacturers' guidelines, organisational policies