A term from classical Arabic passed to Hispanic Arabic as Albanian, and this to our language as bricklayer. The concept alludes to that which is dedicated to masonry: construction that is developed using cement, sand, lime, bricks and other similar materials.
Typically, the notion refers to the masonry officer or the master builder. A bricklayer, in this way, is a person who was trained in his trade and who has the technical knowledge necessary to work in the construction industry.
According to DigoPaul, bricklayers can be involved in the construction of a house, but also work to restore or reform it. Beyond family homes, a bricklayer can contribute his knowledge to the development of industrial infrastructure (such as the construction of a plant or factory).
For example: “The architect told me that I should hire at least five masons to carry out the reforms in a period of one month”, “My father is a mason: he is currently working on the construction of a tower in the center”, “The bricklayers haven’t arrived yet? They should have already started with the renovation works ”.
Because of the type of work they do, bricklayers must have various safety implements (such as helmets or gloves). Various accidents can occur on a construction site, such as falling bricks or materials from a great height or the collapse of the structure being erected. So it is very important that the safety of workers is protected.
Bricklayer’s safety
As in any activity that involves risks to the health or integrity of workers, one of the fundamental points is preventive action, and in the case of bricklayers it is characterized by the following principles:
* avoid as many risks as possible, and study carefully those that cannot be avoided;
* try to get to the root of the risks in order to combat them more effectively;
* Minimize the monotony of tasks and ensure that working conditions do not significantly affect people (this includes constant and annoying noises, dangerous chemicals, reduced or high-altitude work spaces);
* invest in research and development of new techniques, with a special focus on the health of the bricklayer.
Falls are among the most common risks of the bricklayer trade, and falls are divided into two groups, depending on whether they occur at the same level or at a different level, the latter being the more frequent of the two. Falls occur when slopes and openings are not adequately protected, or when certain obstacles remain in the middle of the workspace.
Another of the frequent risks of masonry is the fall of objects on workers, either materials or tools. In all cases, the consequences can be fatal, and that is why preventive action is so important: maintaining cleanliness and order, placing railings and safety nets, providing employees with accessories such as helmets and harnesses, etc.
Apart from the physical risks, which also include cuts and exposure to toxic substances, we must not forget that the human factor greatly influences the health of workers. It is important to promote a pleasant environment and always leave room for healthy dialogue and discussion, so that employees feel comfortable in their position and with their colleagues.
On the other hand, constant and updated training of the bricklayer is essential to reduce the probability of accidents at work: it is useless to equip him with a helmet if he uses it sporadically, for example.
