Bricklayers Tracking Guide

Bricklayers are among the most in-demand trades on UK construction sites, and their compliance requirements reflect the physical demands and safety risks of the work. Every bricklayer needs a valid CSCS card, task-specific RAMS for each project, and current insurance documentation before starting on site.

The primary health risks for bricklayers are musculoskeletal disorders from repetitive lifting and manual handling, and respiratory conditions from cement dust and silica exposure. The Health and Safety Executive reports that construction workers — bricklayers in particular — have significantly higher rates of occupational lung disease than the general working population. COSHH records are essential for any bricklayer handling cement, mortar, adhesives, or other substances that pose health risks.

Bricklaying work must comply with BS EN 1996 (Eurocode 6), which covers the design of masonry structures. While structural design is typically the responsibility of the engineer, bricklayers must follow the specification for mortar mixes, wall ties, movement joints, and cavity widths. Deviations from the specification can result in structural defects that are expensive to remedy and may trigger Building Control enforcement.

On larger sites, bricklayers often work at height using scaffolding. They must check that scaffold platforms are properly boarded, that guard rails are in place, and that scaffold inspection certificates are current before using any scaffold. The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require that all work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent persons.

Main contractors expect bricklayer subcontractors to arrive on site with a complete compliance pack: CSCS cards for all operatives, current employers' liability and public liability insurance, trade-specific RAMS, and evidence of COSHH awareness training for cement and mortar handling.