Certificate of Qualification 401A

Brick & Stone Mason

A brick and stone mason is a trained tradesperson who uses various kinds of real and manufactured stones, bricks, and concrete blocks to build walls, chimneys, fireplaces, and other constructions that are both aesthetically beautiful and structurally solid. Brick and stone masons must have a good eye for detail to ensure accurate dimensions and flawless alignment. They utilize hand and power equipment to cut, shape, and fit materials. They may also employ specialized methods to produce one-of-a-kind designs as well as mix and apply mortar to bind the materials together. To solve difficulties that arise throughout a project, a brick and stone mason needs to possess outstanding problem-solving abilities in addition to a solid awareness of construction laws and safety regulations.

Required Skills & Features

Good reading, numeracy and communication skills
Strong spatial perception and hand-eye coordination
Artistic flair with a good eye for colour, line and proportion
Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather
Ability to work at heights

Minimum Standards

Grade 12 Diploma preferred (Grade 10 minimum)

Apprenticeship

5600 hours of on-the-job training, supplemented by three 8-week blocks of in-class technical training.

Employment Areas

New home building and construction
Institutional and commercial construction
Heavy and civil engineering construction
Self-employed

Duties & Responsibilities

Review drawings and blueprints to determine necessary materials.
Prepare and place bricks, concrete blocks, structural tiles, or other masonry units.
Accurately measure, cut, and trim bricks and concrete blocks to specified dimensions using both hand and power tools.
Apply mortar and position the bricks in place.
Construct patios, garden walls, and other decorative installations.
Install fire bricks to line industrial chimneys and smokestacks.