Chapter B7 – Performs Site layout

The NOA for Carpenter (2013) identifies the required competencies (skills) for the task of performing a site layout. These are:

Determine location of building and other structures such as curbs, light standards and sidewalks from survey control points

Place layout structures such as batter boards and string lines to identify location of buildings and other structures (NOA, p. 28).

Site layout involves the locating of a building on a property including determining elevations using surveying equipment such as a builder’s level, laser level, transit or theodolite. There are numerous types of levels and rods that can be used in site layout, and one must be familiar with all of them. Layout instruments are also useful for laying out concrete formwork such as columns, grade beams and stairs. Finish carpenters will use layout instruments for setting interior finish locations such as drop ceilings, cabinets and chair rails. In addition to these instruments, building layout for footings can be done with hand tools. Most of the information used for site layout is found on the blueprints including benchmarks, elevations and locations.