COURSE OVERVIEW:

Welcome to the Quality Assurance in Brick & Blocklaying Operations course. This program is designed to build the knowledge and practical awareness required to consistently deliver safe, durable, and compliant masonry work in line with Australian industry standards.

This course begins by defining what quality assurance means within the context of bricklaying and blocklaying, explaining how it supports structural integrity, enhances site safety, and leads to improved client satisfaction. It also introduces the importance of applying QA principles at every stage of the construction process.

Quality assurance in masonry relies on compliance with applicable regulations and codes. This section introduces key standards, including AS 3700 – Masonry Structures Code, the National Construction Code (NCC), and relevant council or engineering requirements that must be applied across both residential and commercial projects.

Reading and interpreting construction plans is essential to get quality right from the start. This section guides participants through architectural and structural drawings, focusing on how to extract key details such as dimensions, tolerances, materials, and finishes, and how to confirm unclear items with the design team or site supervisor.

Before laying begins, proper site conditions must be verified. This section outlines critical pre-construction checks, including access readiness, safety, adequate workspace, the presence of damp-proof courses, and that foundational levels are within acceptable tolerances for masonry.

Material quality directly impacts long-term performance. This section focuses on the inspection and handling of bricks, blocks, and mortar components, including how to store materials correctly on-site to prevent contamination or damage and ensure conformance to specifications.

Reliable tools and equipment are vital to accurate work. This section explains the importance of calibrating levelling tools, maintaining hand tools and mixers, and conducting pre-use checks to ensure equipment reliability and safety during brick and blocklaying operations.

Precision in layout and set-out affects the whole build. This section discusses the process of establishing datums, setting string lines, checking for squareness, identifying control joint locations, and confirming all layout details align with architectural and structural plans.

The quality of mortar affects adhesion and appearance. This section examines appropriate mixing ratios, control of water content, colour consistency, and application methods that prevent drying defects, shrinkage, or voids that can undermine structural or visual quality.

Bricklaying must be performed with skill and consistency. This section addresses the technical techniques used to maintain alignment, plumb, level, and joint uniformity, while also identifying ways to avoid common errors such as misaligned courses or uneven beds.

Blocklaying involves heavier materials and higher load requirements. This section explores block handling, strength tolerances, core filling, and reinforcement integration to ensure that both structural and non-structural masonry is constructed to meet specified load performance.

Joint finishing plays a vital role in both function and appearance. This section covers different finish types such as flush, raked, or weathered joints, and the importance of consistency, clean lines, and mortar removal for a professional finish that supports long-term durability.

Once laid, masonry must be cured and protected. This section provides guidance on managing drying times, protecting fresh work from weather, and using appropriate covers or barriers to preserve the quality and integrity of newly built masonry.

Movement joints allow the structure to adjust safely. This section explores where expansion joints should be located, the types of materials used for joint control, and the need to comply with engineer specifications to avoid cracking or other defects over time.

Regular compliance checks are central to quality control. This section outlines how to conduct in-progress inspections, use checklists effectively, document findings, and immediately address any issues that arise to prevent them becoming long-term defects.

Defects should be promptly identified and rectified. This section discusses common problems such as efflorescence, cracking, or poor colour matching, and how to investigate root causes, apply appropriate repairs, and document rectification for accountability.

Accurate documentation supports accountability and traceability. This section covers how to complete QA inspection forms, maintain detailed records of inspections and rectifications, and compile reports for clients, certifiers, or supervisors as part of handover.

WHS practices must be integrated into quality processes. This section explains how to identify hazards during QA work, ensure that safety protocols are followed, and report unsafe practices or conditions encountered during inspections.

Masonry work rarely occurs in isolation. This section focuses on coordinating with other trades, aligning QA timing with adjacent works such as waterproofing or electrical services, and ensuring communication flows effectively to maintain construction consistency.

Final QA walkthroughs mark the end of the build. This section explains the process for final inspections, including checking finishes, verifying compliance with design specifications, and facilitating sign-off by the client, builder, or certifier for handover.

A strong QA culture underpins lasting success. This final section encourages continuous improvement through team feedback, training apprentices in quality awareness, and recognising outstanding workmanship as a way to build pride and professional standards in the trade.

By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to implement quality assurance processes throughout all stages of brick and blocklaying, ensuring compliance, durability, and customer satisfaction on every project.

Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:

1. Introduction to Quality Assurance in Brick & Blocklaying

• Defining quality assurance in masonry works
• Importance of QA for safety, durability, and compliance
• Industry expectations and client satisfaction

2. Understanding Australian Standards and Building Codes

• AS 3700 Masonry Structures Code
• National Construction Code (NCC) requirements
• Local council regulations and site-specific conditions

3. Interpreting Construction Plans and Specifications

• Reading architectural and structural drawings
• Identifying dimensions, tolerances, and materials
• Confirming details with engineers and supervisors

4. Site Assessment and Preparation Checks

• Verifying site conditions before laying begins
• Ensuring access, safety, and workspace readiness
• Checking footings, levels, and damp-proof courses

5. Material Quality Inspection and Storage

• Inspecting bricks and blocks for conformity and damage
• Storage to prevent contamination and deterioration
• Verifying mortar components and mixing procedures

6. Tools and Equipment Calibration and Maintenance

• Ensuring accuracy of levels, tapes, and profiles
• Maintaining trowels, mixers, and cutting equipment
• Conducting tool inspections prior to use

7. Wall Layout and Set-Out Accuracy

• Establishing datums and string lines
• Checking bond patterns, openings, and control joints
• Confirming alignment with plans and elevations

8. Mortar Quality and Application Standards

• Mixing ratios and water content control
• Checking consistency, colour, and adhesion
• Preventing premature drying and shrinkage

9. Bricklaying Techniques for Structural Integrity

• Correct laying sequence and joint formation
• Ensuring verticality, level, and plumb
• Avoiding common defects such as voids or misalignment

10. Blocklaying Techniques and Load-Bearing Criteria

• Handling and positioning heavy units
• Building to specified strength requirements
• Using reinforcement and core filling where required

11. Joint Finishing and Aesthetic Quality

• Types of joint finishes
• Consistency across surfaces and walls
• Removing excess mortar and maintaining clean lines

12. Curing and Protection of Masonry Work

• Monitoring drying times and environmental conditions
• Protecting work from rain, frost, or extreme heat
• Using covers and barriers to preserve quality

13. Control of Movement and Expansion Joints

• Locating vertical and horizontal control joints
• Installing joint materials to accommodate expansion
• Complying with structural engineer specifications

14. Compliance Checks During Construction

• Conducting regular inspections and measurements
• Using QA checklists and sign-off points
• Correcting deviations immediately

15. Defect Identification and Rectification

• Recognising cracks, efflorescence, and colour variation
• Investigating causes and applying repairs
• Recording rectification works and outcomes

16. Documentation and Reporting Requirements

• Completing QA inspection forms and site records
• Documenting non-conformances and corrective actions
• Preparing reports for supervisors, clients, or certifiers

17. WHS Integration into Quality Processes

• Identifying hazards during QA inspections
• Verifying compliance with safety protocols
• Reporting unsafe practices or equipment

18. Coordinating with Other Trades and Professionals

• Timing QA checks with adjacent works
• Communicating issues to site supervisors and engineers
• Ensuring consistency across subcontractor work

19. Final Quality Assurance Walkthroughs

• Conducting final alignment, level, and finish checks
• Verifying compliance with plans, specs, and standards
• Seeking client or certifier approval for handover

20. Promoting a Culture of Quality in Masonry Work

• Encouraging continuous improvement on-site
• Training apprentices and workers in QA awareness
• Recognising high-quality workmanship and leadership

COURSE DURATION:

The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS:

You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.

COURSE DELIVERY:

Purchase and download course content.

ASSESSMENT:

A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.

CERTIFICATION:

Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.