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Construction worker

Construction worker

Description

A construction worker is employed at a construction site and prepares site to perform a variety of different tasks there.

Common Duties/Routines

A construction worker works under a construction manager and does the tasks that he assigns to him. Some of the typical duties are to check the site and make sure it is ready for starting work there. They read plans and analyze blueprints to determine their exact tasks and duties. They also ensure that all the equipment, machinery and tools are in working order and functioning correctly and then load the required ones and unload any that are extra onto vehicles to be transported to the construction site. They assemble scaffolding, barricades and other structures to be temporarily put up for work and help and coordinate with people of different professions such as contractor, sub-contractor, carpenter, painter and electrician. They also operate and help workers use heavy machines and equipment and monitor that is it functioning efficiently and report any faults or problems in it to the supervisor or superior present on site. After the work is done, they clean and lubricate the machines, preparing them for use for the next shift and are also responsible for breaking and disintegrating all the temporary structures and removing debris and remains of the work and any dangerous and hazardous substances that may be present on the site.

They are also responsible for performing a number of processes such as digging holes or trenches and mixing and pouring concrete and ensuring that it is levelled. They also have to measure and cut wood, wires and lumber and also often polish and grind these substances if instructions require. They paint, mop up spilt paint apply sealant and spray water and other materials for cleaning purposes.They install sewers and water pipes for plumbing purposes. For these purposes and others as well, they make use of different tools, either hand ones or power tools such as cement mixers, hammers, shovels, picks and earth tampers.

A construction worker also keeps an eye on traffic, which pass near the site, directing it away from the work areas. They also have to do a bit of administrative work like paperwork and recording data.

A construction worker follows all health and safety rules and regulations and should make sure that he wears proper protective equipment such as gloves, special shoes, goggles and safety uniforms whenever required. They should also encourage their fellow workers to take proper safety precautions to prevent risk and avoid any accident that may happen at the workplace.

Working hours

A construction worker usually works in rotating shifts in the morning, evening or night and works around six to seven hours five to six days of the week. However, working overtime and on the weekends may be required when the company gets a large contract and when deadlines have to be met and cannot be achieved by working normal regular hours. Working hours also greatly depend on location. For example, if the construction site is outdoor, work maybe to be paused for a couple of months during winter it starts to snow. Construction on roads and highways mostly happen during the nights

Required/Trained Skills

  • Knowledge of equipment, told and machinery used at the construction site to be able to operate, clean and use it when required.
  • Physical strength and great stamina as construction workers are on their feet most of the time, lifting heavy objects, performing tough tasks such as digging and cutting and extensive use of hands and feet.
  • Communication skills to coordinate and communicate with subordinates, coworkers and people belonging to different professions such as painter and carpenters.
  • Good analytical skills to analyze blueprints and other instructions.
  • Teamwork skills as construction workers often work in groups on a project or for the purpose of completing a specific task.

Education requirements

No set education requirements are present to pursue this career but a high school diploma is usually preferred. Courses in woodwork and welding increase the chances of getting hired. Fluent English and command on any other language is also helpful.

Construction workers learn on the job by being apprentices.

Salary/Compensation

A construction worker earns around $20 an hour, on average.

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