COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Sustainable Practices in Wall & Floor Tiling course. This program is designed to support you in adopting environmentally responsible methods across all stages of wall and floor tiling work. As the construction industry shifts toward more sustainable practices, tilers play a critical role in reducing environmental harm, managing resources responsibly, and promoting long-term efficiency.
This course begins by defining sustainability in the context of tiling, exploring the environmental impact of standard trade practices, and reinforcing the importance of integrating sustainable principles into everyday worksite operations.
Compliance with environmental legislation is a key part of responsible tiling. This section outlines relevant Australian environmental regulations, requirements set by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), and key clauses in standards such as AS 3958.1 and AS/NZS 4801 that influence sustainable tiling methods and workplace practices.
Material selection has a major impact on environmental outcomes. This section explores how to identify and source recycled, reclaimed, or locally produced tiles, assess the environmental credentials of tile products, and evaluate third-party certifications such as GECA (Good Environmental Choice Australia).
Adhesives and grouts also contribute to the project’s sustainability profile. This section provides guidance on choosing low-VOC and non-toxic products, considering the environmental impact of packaging and freight, and interpreting environmental product declarations and supplier labelling.
Sustainable procurement goes beyond material selection. This section introduces methods for choosing environmentally responsible suppliers, avoiding over-ordering, and reducing material waste, while supporting innovation in green product development and construction technology.
Installation methods can also influence energy use. This section examines how to reduce electricity consumption during tile cutting and mixing, when to prefer manual tools over electric ones, and how to schedule work to make better use of natural daylight and ventilation.
Water is another essential resource that requires conservation. This section outlines how to minimise water usage in tile cleaning and preparation, safely reuse rinse water where appropriate, and select equipment designed to use water more efficiently on site.
Minimising waste is fundamental to sustainable tiling. This section provides techniques for accurate measuring and layout planning, making use of tile offcuts and surplus product, and mixing adhesives and grout in suitable quantities to avoid excess.
Recycling and reuse practices can significantly divert materials from landfill. This section explains how to sort recyclable materials, store them safely, collaborate with local recycling providers, and salvage usable materials from demolition or renovation projects.
Hazardous chemicals used in tiling must be managed safely. This section provides procedures for the safe handling and disposal of substances such as sealers, waterproofing agents, and primers, with emphasis on SDS (Safety Data Sheets) and environmental disposal protocols.
Air quality can be compromised during tiling work. This section focuses on how to reduce airborne dust by using extraction systems and wet cutting techniques, as well as the correct use and maintenance of respiratory PPE to protect workers and limit air pollution.
Noise pollution is also a consideration for sustainable work environments. This section offers strategies for choosing quieter equipment, planning noisy tasks within acceptable hours, and installing sound barriers to minimise disturbance to nearby residents and workers.
Durability is a key aspect of sustainability. This section explains how to select long-lasting tile products, apply correct installation techniques to reduce the need for repairs, and guide clients toward low-maintenance finishes that reduce long-term environmental impact.
Transport and delivery planning can also support sustainability. This section includes tips on consolidating material orders, working with low-emission transport services, and managing supplier packaging to reduce waste generated on-site.
Efficient site organisation supports sustainable practices. This section discusses how to strategically store materials to prevent damage, share equipment across teams, and monitor stock levels to reduce redundancy and ensure resource efficiency.
Worker awareness and training are central to cultural change. This section encourages regular sustainability-focused toolbox talks, formal education in environmental practices, and empowering workers to take individual responsibility for reducing environmental harm on tiling sites.
Clients are increasingly seeking sustainable solutions. This section explains how to communicate eco-friendly material options, assist with responsible selections, and demonstrate the long-term financial and environmental benefits of greener tiling methods.
Proper documentation supports environmental accountability. This section shows how to record sustainable materials used, monitor recycling and waste management performance, and produce simple sustainability reports for clients or certifying bodies.
Continuous improvement drives lasting impact. This section provides guidance on setting environmental targets for tiling projects, conducting post-project sustainability evaluations, and integrating new technologies or procedures that support greener outcomes.
Sustainability also includes ethical and social dimensions. This section explores the importance of responsible sourcing, fair labour, safe working conditions, and community considerations, all of which contribute to a holistic and ethical approach to sustainable tiling.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with practical, standard-compliant strategies to reduce environmental impact, enhance workplace efficiency, and contribute to a more sustainable future through best practices in wall and floor tiling.
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 Sustainability in Tiling
- Definition of sustainability in the construction industry
- Environmental impact of tiling activities
- Importance of sustainable practices in the trade
2. Understanding Environmental Regulations and Standards
- Australian environmental laws and codes
- Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) requirements
- Relevant clauses in AS 3958.1 and AS/NZS 4801
3. Selecting Sustainable Tile Materials
- Using recycled or reclaimed tiles
- Choosing locally sourced materials
- Evaluating environmental certifications (e.g. GECA)
4. Choosing Eco-Friendly Adhesives and Grouts
- Low-VOC and non-toxic products
- Packaging and transportation impacts
- Supplier declarations and environmental labelling
5. Sustainable Procurement Practices
- Evaluating environmentally responsible suppliers
- Reducing over-ordering and minimising waste
- Supporting sustainable product innovations
6. Energy-Efficient Installation Methods
- Reducing power usage during tile cutting and mixing
- Using manual vs electric tools where appropriate
- Scheduling work to maximise natural light and ventilation
7. Water Conservation on Tiling Sites
- Minimising water usage during cleaning and preparation
- Reusing rinse water where safe and suitable
- Using water-efficient tools and equipment
8. Waste Minimisation Techniques
- Accurate measuring and layout planning
- Reusing offcuts and surplus materials
- Avoiding over-mixing of adhesives and grout
9. Recycling and Reusing Tiling Waste
- Sorting and storing recyclable waste
- Partnering with local recycling facilities
- Identifying reusable materials from demolition sites
10. Managing Chemical and Hazardous Waste
- Safe handling and storage of sealants, primers, etc.
- Disposing of hazardous waste through approved channels
- Understanding Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and labels
11. Reducing Dust and Air Pollution
- Using dust extraction tools and vacuums
- Wet cutting tiles to minimise airborne particles
- Wearing and maintaining respiratory PPE
12. Noise Pollution Management
- Selecting quieter tools and machines
- Scheduling noisy tasks during daytime hours
- Installing temporary sound barriers when needed
13. Designing for Durability and Longevity
- Selecting tiles and products with long life cycles
- Using correct installation methods to reduce repairs
- Promoting low-maintenance surfaces to clients
14. Sustainable Transportation and Delivery Planning
- Coordinating bulk orders to reduce delivery runs
- Choosing low-emission or local transport providers
- Reducing packaging waste from suppliers
15. Site Organisation and Resource Efficiency
- Strategic storage of materials to avoid damage
- Efficient use of space and equipment sharing
- Monitoring and managing stock levels effectively
16. Promoting Worker Awareness and Training
- Educating teams on sustainable tiling practices
- Incorporating sustainability into toolbox talks
- Encouraging individual responsibility for eco-behaviour
17. Client Engagement in Sustainable Choices
- Communicating eco-friendly options to clients
- Supporting clients with sustainable material selection
- Explaining long-term benefits of green practices
18. Documentation and Reporting for Green Compliance
- Keeping records of sustainable products used
- Tracking waste diversion and recycling rates
- Reporting on project sustainability outcomes
19. Continuous Improvement in Environmental Performance
- Setting sustainability goals for tiling projects
- Evaluating performance after project completion
- Adopting new technologies and eco-friendly innovations
20. Ethical and Social Aspects of Sustainability
- Supporting fair labour and ethical sourcing
- Creating safe and healthy environments for workers
- Considering community impacts of tiling operations
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”.