3 CPCCCM2001A Student Learning Guide

Document Title: Student Learning Guide
Document Subtitle: CPCCCM2001A - Read and interpret plans

and specifications
Contents
Introduction....................................................................................................................4
SECTION ONE.................................................................................................................5
The Role of Quality Management Systems........................................................22
SECTION TWO...............................................................................................................26
SECTION THREE............................................................................................................31
SECTION FOUR..............................................................................................................37
SECTION FIVE...............................................................................................................46
SECTION SIX.................................................................................................................58
ANNEX 1.......................................................................................................................66
REFERENCES.................................................................................................................67
Name of document: Student Learning Guide Version 1 Page 2 of 60

Name of the RTO: Harward International College RTO No: 22332 | CRICOS No: 03234B
Introduction
This Learner Guide & Workbook supports the unit CPCCCM2001A - Read and interpret plans and
specifications
This unit of competency supports achievement of basic reading and interpretation of plans and
specifications commonly used in the construction industry.
Before you begin

The content of this learner guide is designed to provide information relating to criteria outlined in
the unit of competency
For detailed information regarding this unit of competency click on the link
https://training.gov.au/Training/Details/unit code and title
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scenario question or reflect on your current work practices
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SECTION ONE
Identify types of drawings and their functions
What you will learn

1.1 Main types of plans and drawings used in the
construction sector of the industry are identified
1.2 Key features and functions of each type of drawing

are identified
1.3 Quality requirements of company operations are

recognised and adhered to
1.4 Environmental requirements and controls are

identified from job plans, specifications and
environmental plan

Main types of plans and drawings used in the construction
sector of the industry are identified
Designers need construction drawings to be able to translate their clients’ ideas into
a practical representation of what they want. These drawings let clients see that their
ideas have been interpreted correctly.
When clients are happy with the drawings, a builder/main contractor can then provide
a firm estimate of the building costs. Once the estimate has been approved and the
project confirmed, the builder/main contractor gives these plans to other contractors or
subcontractors who then start building.
A complex project may require hundreds of sheets of drawings, while a simple building
project like a pergola may need just one sheet. Project drawings form an important
part of the project contract between the client and the builder/main contractor and are
therefore, legal documents.
During construction, the building should be built exactly as shown on the drawings,
unless there is a written instruction issued by the architect or client to the
builder/main contractor to make a change.

Types of drawings
There are many types of construction drawings that are necessary for a building to be built
correctly.
There are five main types of drawings used in construction:
Architectural Structural Electrical Plumbing Finishing
Drawings for construction projects can be created by a range of people, depending on

the project. These include an architect, a building designer, a draftsperson, a builder or
even the client. To keep things simple, the terms ‘designer’ and ‘draftsperson’ will be
used most in this guide to indicate the person who draws the plans.
Drawings, especially in the residential sector of the industry, don’t show all the details
of the building. For example, the following part plan of a house, shows the outline of the
roof (marked with a dashed line like this – – – –) so that the roof carpenter knows that it’s
a ‘hip’ roof, as shown in the photo.

Architectural Drawing
Architectural drawing can be termed as the mother drawing for all the other drawings used
for construction. It contains all the details of the project such as location site plan, setting
out plan, elevations, sections and other details.
Structural Drawing
Structural drawings can be termed as the backbone drawing of the building. It consists all
the information about the structural intervention that are coming on a building. It contains
many type of drawing with very minute details and description.
Electrical Drawing
Electrical drawing represent the details of electrical fixtures, location of switches, fan, light
and others. It also represents the load calculation, tapping for electricity, wiring path and
other interventions such as AC and UPS and its components
Finishing Drawings
Finishing drawings represents the finish type of every component of the building such as
flooring pattern, painting color, false ceiling shape, plastering texture and elevation design.
These details are sometime given in elevation drawings also.
There is no standard rule of drawings required for a project. Depending upon the type of
building and requirement, types of drawings are made and issued.
Plans
Different types of plans include:
Location plan Site or block plan Floor plans Elevations
Sections Detailed drawings Specifications A title block
Waste
management
Landscape plans Shadow diagrams Bracing schedules
plans, site
management plans
Construction plan Longitudinal plan Footing plan

Site Plan
This is primary drawing used for marking out the plan on the ground. It represents the
location, orientation and information about the site’s topography, landscaping utilities ,and
site work.
Key to site plan
Block identification. When land is subdivided, each block is

given a lot number. The street number is allocated later.
Boundary. The boundary is the imaginary line that defines the

block of land. At each corner is a small wooden peg with the
numbers of the adjacent lots stamped onto a metal plate. If a
boundary changes direction, a peg is located at that point too.
Road identification. The name of the road shows where the

front of the block is.
Verge. The verge is the area of land between the block and the
road. It is not part of the block and must not be built on (apart
from a crossover) or damaged in any way. It usually has
services running beneath it (water, telephone, etc).
North point. The direction of north is shown to assist in

orientating the drawing with the block when on site.
Proposed building. The location of the proposed house is

shown, usually just as an outline.

Finished floor level. The level of the finished floor of the house is
given.
Adjacent properties. The adjacent lot numbers are shown, and

sometimes indications of existing structures are given.
Existing fences. Any existing boundary fences should be shown.
Easement. An easement is a part of the land over which another

party has some sort of legal right. In this case, a strip near the
rear of the block is an easement for a council stormwater line to
be laid. It still belongs to the landowner but the council has the
right to lay and maintain a stormwater pipe there, so no structure
is allowed to be built over this area.
Existing trees. If there are any features on the block that are to be
left undisturbed they are clearly indicated.
Contour lines. These are imaginary level lines that indicate the
shape of the land (you might have seen these on maps.) In this
site plan, they indicate that the land slopes down from the north
corner to the south corner.
Contour level. This indicates the ‘reduced level’ of the contour

(reduced levels are explained in Section 3 Dimensions of this
guide). In this case, they are shown at one-metre intervals, but
this varies depending on the steepness of the land.
Datum. This is a point on or near the block that all heights for the
project are measured from. It is explained more fully in Section 3.

Angle of boundary intersection. This indicates at what angle the
boundaries meet. It is not always shown, especially if the block has
square corners.
Location of power connection. This indicates to the electrician

where the electrical connection will be made. In this case, the
block has underground power, but if overhead lines pass the block,
the nearest power pole may be shown.
Boundary length. This indicates the length of each boundary.
Setback. This is the distance from the front boundary to the

nearest part of the building. A minimum distance for this is set by
the local authority (council) and varies depending on the zoning of
the land.
Offset. Similar to the setback, the offset indicates how far from the
side boundary the building is to be. There are by-laws regulating
the minimum distance for this, mainly to minimise the spread of
fire.
Driveway. This indicates where and how wide the driveway should
be.
Crossover. This is the continuation of the driveway across the

verge.
Path. Any paving included in the contract is shown.
Clothes hoist. The position of the clothes hoist is indicated.

Working Plan
This drawing gives the information of horizontal dimensions of the building, thickness of
walls, clear spaces inside the building and column locations. it also shows the openings
required in the building such as doors, windows and ventilators.
Floor plans
Floor plans show the layout of the house, literally a ‘plan of the floor’. They provide a lot
of the information we need to know to help us construct the building, such as:
Positions of internal doors
Dimensions and measurements
Wall thicknesses
Locations of wet areas
Outline of the roof design
Window positions
Inspection and discussion of plans
A range of people may need to inspect and discuss plans for proposed construction work.
These include:
Sewerage and
Environmental
The client Local council drainage
agencies
authorities
Electrical, gas and

Engineers and Roads and traffic
utility services
surveyors authority
supply companies

Section Drawings
Section drawings represents the material of construction to be used, heights and

measurement of the different components of buildings, type of structural components such
as type of slab, etc. It represents the drawing when the building is cut through a vertical
plane.
Elevation Drawing
Elevation drawing represents the information of openings, size and shape of external
surface, height of building and finish of the building after completion. These drawings are
made by having a aesthetic view of the building.
Elevations can show things that can’t be shown in plan view; for example, the height
of the windows and how far the windowsills are from the floor. This would be difficult to
show clearly on the floor plan.
Elevations are often labelled ‘North elevation’, ‘West elevation’, etc. Alternatively, they can
be labelled ‘Elevation 1’, ‘Elevation 2’, or ‘Elevation A’, ‘Elevation B’. In some instances they
may be named after the street they face, for example, Smith Street elevation.
Whichever way the elevators are labelled, when they are referred to in other plans, the
same labels are used. This is called ‘referencing’.

Views
Construction drawings belong to one of four types of view: – plan, elevation, section
and detail. This refers to the point a drawing seems to be viewed and drawn from.
Plan view – a view from above, looking down
A plan view shows the layout of the proposed building or the site. It can show the
length and width of things (for example, rooms) and where things are positioned.
A plan view could be a plan of:
Specific parts of the

building (that might
The block of land the also be shown on a
Just the building itself
building is to be built floor plan); for
– a floor plan
on – a site plan example, an electrical
plan showing positions
of lights, etc.
These are called ‘ancillary’ works (that is, additional to the main building works and usually
of a relatively minor nature).
In some cases, the ancillary works are not included in the building contract; the client or
owner organises them later.
When you’re working with a site plan, it’s essential you read it the right way up; with
some projects this will not be as easy as it sounds. The easiest way is to choose a
feature shown on the plan and align the plan with this feature on the ground. Often
the street is the best feature to use. To use the street to align the plan, stand in the
street facing the site and turn the site plan to face the same way. This is referred to
as ‘orientation’.

Work Schedules
Creating Work Schedules requires looking at the task to be completed, and allocating an
appropriate amount of time. When developing work schedules and managing deadlines, it is
important to consult with your team. Your team may include the following groups of people:
Contractors (e.g.
Managers Supervisors Peers/co-workers Your client engineers or
architects)
The key to creating a work schedule is to plan the logical sequence of tasks for each trade;
then designate the appropriate personnel, equipment and materials. Safe work method
statements and risks analyses can also be outlined.
Watch ‘Benefits of planning and scheduling’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=pEutR5h6HCY
However, the plan doesn’t show any details of how the roof framing should be
constructed. That’s because there are Australian Standards® that specify how roof
framing should be constructed (or how trusses should be made and erected if they are
used instead).
Also, it’s assumed that the carpenters constructing the roof framing will be competent
tradespeople who know what they’re doing. The written specifications for the job will also
state which standard is to be followed for each part of the build.
There are also ‘standard’ ways of doing things, especially in the housing sector. For
example, if a metal fascia is specified to be fitted at the gutter line, detailed instructions
or drawings aren’t necessary, because there’s a standard way of doing that and the
contractor will know how.

Key features and functions of each type of drawing are
identified
Different types of drawings is used in construction such as architectural drawings, structural,
electrical, plumbing and finishing drawings. These drawings provide layout plans and details
for construction of each and every part of the building.
Drawings plays an important role in the construction field to convey the ideologies and
perspective of the designer to the layman at site. The drawings may be used to indicate the
overall appearance, inside or outside the structure, or they may be used to indicate precise
measurements and other details for construction.
Key functions of drawings

Identifying the location of the project
Identifying surrounding structures or properties
Identifying general characteristics of the project
Highlighting landscaping features
Showing drainage lines
Showing service or utility locations
Identifying formation types
Showing foundation details
Defining the types of materials or products to be used
Defining emergency contact and action details

Key features of plans and specifications
Symbols and abbreviations

Symbols and abbreviations on plans and specifications are used
to detail characteristics of the plans and convey information to
the person reading them. The symbols and abbreviations used
can vary depending on the type of civil construction being
undertaken and the organisational requirements. Symbols and
abbreviations will appear on the drawing, and will be detailed in
the legend for the plan or drawing.
Notes Notes are commonly found on plans and specifications to explain
or detail specific elements on the drawing. Notes may include
instructions on materials, instructions for interpreting the plan or
guidelines that will help you to complete the job.
Legend To ensure that civil construction plans and specifications can be
interpreted correctly, a legend is necessary to explain all the
symbols and abbreviations that have been used.
Scale Plans are usually ‘scale drawings’, meaning that the plans are
drawn at a specific ratio relative to the actual size of the place or
object. Commonly used scale ratios are 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50,
1:100, 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000, 1:2000 and 1:5000
Title panel The title panel is usually located on the front cover of a set of
documents or on the bottom of the plan/specification drawing.
Amendments It is helpful to recognise the changes between versions and
understand the changes that have occurred. This will ensure you
are completing tasks following the most up-to-date plans
available.
Identify environmental Environmental controls and protection requirements are an
controls essential part of every civil construction worksite. It is essential
that you identify the appropriate environmental controls for the
project you are working on. They can be found in documents
such as:
• Job plans
• Job specifications

Quality requirements of company operations are recognised
and adhered to
Quality standards are designed to ensure companies meet the minimum requirements to
become an integral part of almost every industry from food to automotive to healthcare. It’s
clear that those standards are here indefinitely.
Some organizations struggle with the concepts of quality standards or they view it as a
complex system. But with a little bit of information, help and a clear understanding of why
quality standards can benefit them, organizations can learn to embrace quality standards
rather than buck against them.
Quality management consists of four key components, which include the

following:
Q u a lity P la n n in g – T he p rocess of id e n tifying th e qu ality sta nd ards

relevan t to th e project an d deciding h ow to m ee t the m
Q u a lity Im p ro v e m e n t – T h e p u rp o seful ch an g e o f a pro cess to

im pro ve the co n fid ence o r re liab ility of th e outcom e
Q u a lity C o n tro l – T he co ntin u in g effort to up ho ld a pro ce ss’s in teg rity

an d reliability in ach iev in g a n ou tco m e
Q u a lity A ssu ra n c e – T h e syste m atic o r plan ne d actions necessary to o ffer

su fficie nt reliability so that a p articu la r se rvice or p rod u ct w ill m eet the
sp e cified req u ire m en ts

The aim of quality management is to ensure that all the organization’s stakeholders work
together to improve the company’s processes, products, services, and culture to achieve the
long-term success that stems from customer satisfaction.
The process of quality management involves a collection of guidelines that are developed by
a team to ensure that the products and services that they produce are of the right standards
or fit for a specified purpose.
The process starts when the organization sets quality

targets to be met and which are agreed upon with the
customer
The organization then defines how the targets will be

measured. It takes the actions that are required to
measure quality. It then identifies any quality issues that
arise and initiates improvements
The final step involves reporting the overall level of the

quality achieved
The process ensures that the products and services produced by the team match the
customers’ expectations.

Quality Improvement Methods
Quality improvement methods comprise three components: product improvement, process

improvement, and people-based improvement. There are numerous methods of quality
management and techniques that can be utilized. They include Kaizen, Zero Defect
Programs, Six Sigma, Quality Circle, Taguchi Methods, the Toyota Production System, Kansei
Engineering, TRIZ, BPR, OQRM, ISO, and Top Down & Bottom Up approaches among
others.
Benefits of Quality Management
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The Intent of Quality Standards
Quality isn’t just about profits and loss or beating out a competitor. It’s about safety,
delivering on a promise and meeting the very basics of customer expectations. But, by
meeting quality standards, companies often reap better profits and reduce losses. Those
that exceed quality standards stand out above their competitors and further their potential
for profit and consumer loyalty. Therein rests the benefit of quality standards.
Quality Standards Offer a Formula for Success
Quality can be an obscure concept at first because what one might see as quality someone
else may not. Hence, the need and purpose of quality standards is crucial. ISO standards,
such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 27001, serve as a framework for businesses. Clearly
defined standards and requirements make it easier for companies to meet what their
consumers consider “quality” and they improve the overall vision of what the company
should work toward.
But what good are quality standards if your company isn’t clear on how they apply to your
specific product or service? Quality standards are only meant to serve as a framework.
There are still walls to be built, fixtures to be mounted, and a floor to be laid. This is where
quality management systems come into play.
Still struggling with quality standards? Partner with QAD CEBOS and embrace quality
standards.

The Role of Quality Management Systems
Not to be confused with quality standards, a quality management system (QMS) is a tool
used by companies wishing to effectively meet (and possibly even exceed) required quality
standards. Designed to prevent losses and improve compliance, QMS offers a method by
which companies measure and monitor products, services, processes, procedures,
production, and employees to ensure they are meeting what’s expected.
The most commonly used QMS compliance practices include:
Continuous
Total Quality
Quality
Management Six Sigma
Management (C
(TQM)
QI)
Before selecting a QMS, the company needs to know and understand its vision. What is
important to the company brand? What unique quality or feature will help the organization
stand out from its competitors? What will your company pride itself in? These questions,
along with others, can help your company choose the right QMS.
Want to learn more about quality management systems and how to successfully implement
them? Looking for a way to effectively manage the QMS for your company? Check out this
blog where we talk about building a successful quality management system. For other
questions or assistance, contact us here.

Environmental requirements and controls are identified from
job plans, specifications, and environmental plan
Specifications
A specification is a written document that forms part of the description of the building to be
constructed. It supplements the information on the drawings and, like the drawings, is a
legal part of the contract between the client and the builder.
A specification might only be a few pages long for a small project such as an extension to a
house, or it might be a multi-volume set of bound books for a big project such as a
shopping mall or high-rise building.
For a large commercial or industrial project, there may be a specification for the
architectural features, and additional specifications for the plumbing, electrical and
mechanical requirements of the job. For house construction, one specification booklet is
usually sufficient.
The purpose of a specification

Drawings are the best way to convey most of the information required for a building project,
but a specification is needed to explain things that cannot be included clearly in the
drawings.
Specifications are commonly used to communicate the following:
F ixtu re s a n d fittin g s to b e u sed , w h e re th in g s like d im e n sio n s, co lo u r o r m o d e l

n u m b e r a re im p o rta n t
T o p ro v id e in stru ctio n s to th e b u ild e r o r tra d e sp e o p le fo r h o w so m e th in g is to

b e d o n e . F o r e x a m p le , d ra w in g s m ig h t sh o w th at in te rn a l w a lls a re to h a ve a
p laste r fin ish , b u t it is th e sp e cifica tio n th a t te lls th e p la ste rer h o w – ‘b rin g
w a lls to a re a so n a b le fla t su rfa ce b y th e ap p licatio n o f a ce m e n t re n d er flo a t
co at w h ile th e p laste r is se ttin g ’. In stru ctio n s ca n a lso re la te to re g u la tio n s –
‘a ll lin tels sh a ll b e g a lv an ise d tre a te d , in a cco rd a n ce w ith B C A C la u se 3 .3 .3 .4 ’.
T o p ro v id e in stru ctio n s to th e b u ild e r a b o u t th in g s th a t m a y n o t b e p art o f th e

fin ish e d b u ild in g b u t th a t n e v e rth e le ss n e ed to h a p p e n d u rin g th e p ro je ct – fo r
e x a m p le , sa fe ty b a rriers, d isp o sa l o f ru b b ish o r p ro te ctio n o f a d jo in in g p ro p ertie s.

Specifications usually include a clause about making good any damage to footpaths, fences
and other amenities in the vicinity of the project. There will also be a clause that deals with
the general quality of the materials and workmanship to be used.
Tolerances
The specification includes tolerances for the project. Tolerances are the allowable variations
from the stated values or performance levels for any element of the project. In many cases,
tolerances for a particular product or service are included in the relevant Australian
Standard®.
Examples of tolerances include things like:
How flat or plumb a concrete surface should be
How wide the mortar joints in brickwork can be
Allowed shrinkage in timber
Allowed twisting or bending of doors
Allowed cracking in plasterboard or hard plaster finishes
Level of grout finish in tiled areas.
If an aspect of construction is crucial on a particular project, for reasons of appearance

or function, a more stringent tolerance can be included in the project documentation to
alert the affected trade that they need to be more precise than usual in this instance. As
this will usually mean more work; it will often add to the cost of that part of the project.

Environmental management plan
An environmental management plan may be required for a project, depending on the type
of project and where it is located. It can be a separate written document, included in the
specifications, or drawn as a plan, similar to a project site plan. This plan is not included in a
typical set of construction drawings but should be available on site for everyone involved in
a project to follow. Environmental management includes the following controls:
land disturbance, eg management of stormwater, dust

control and erosion
noise and vibration, eg working only during prescribed site

operating hours and monitoring noise and vibration levels
of vehicles and equipment
waste management, eg minimising waste, sorting waste

into the appropriate bins and leaving the site clean and
tidy at the end of each day
hazardous goods, eg ensuring safety data sheets (SDSs)

are available and correct storage procedures are followed.

SECTION TWO
Recognise amendments
What you will learn
2.1 Title panel of project documentation is checked to

verify latest amendments to drawing
2.2 Amendments to specifications are checked to

ensure currency of information and conveyed to others
where appropriate

Title panel of project documentation is checked to verify latest
amendments to drawing
In this section we will look at title panels, or title blocks, an essential part of all
construction drawings.
Title panels
A title panel (sometimes called a title block) is found on all drawings. It identifies which
project the drawing is for and also gives some specific information about that particular
drawing sheet. The title panel can be found at the bottom or the side (usually the
right-hand side) of the drawing sheet.
Where the title panel is located and what it looks like are decided by the drafting or
architectural company. They will usually incorporate company styles, colours and
logo into it. Employees who create the drawings will be required to follow company
procedures by inserting and completing the title block correctly.

Here is an example of a title block.

Notes panel
Some drawings have a ‘Notes’ panel as well as a title panel. The information in this
panel is important and must not be overlooked.

Amendments to specifications are checked to ensure currency
of information and conveyed to others where appropriate
Amendments
An amendment is a change to a project that is decided upon after the drawings have
been finalised. They are sometimes called revisions. These changes might happen
because the client requests them (for example, the client may want a larger window
in the study) or because the builder realises something will work better if it’s done a
little differently. Either way, amendments need to be shown on paper so that everyone
knows about them; they are constructed correctly; and there are no arguments later. So
it’s important to always use the latest version of the plans.
If this means that the building will vary from the way it was shown in the original
contract documents, a written instruction will be issued by the architect/client and, if
necessary, the drawings will be amended (changed) and re-issued.
On a large project (such as the Sydney Opera House), there are literally
thousands of drawings required, and it is a full-time job for a site clerk to ensure that
everyone receives up-to-date drawings to work from.
Old, out-of-date drawings should be stamped and stored rather than destroyed, in case
there is any dispute later.
Changes
Sometimes changes, called amendments, might be made to the specification.

Amendments could relate, for example, to changes to materials or products used
or methods of carrying out specified work. They should be clearly marked so that
everyone who needs to notice them. Amendments usually must be signed or
initialled by both the builder and the client to show they both agree.
On rare occasions, the specification may conflict with the drawings. For example, the
specification may call for the front door to have a glass panel in the top half, yet the
elevation may show no glass in the door. In this case, the builder should contact the
architect or client and ask for clarification.

SECTION THREE
Recognise commonly used symbols and abbreviations
What you will learn
3.1 Construction symbols and abbreviations are

recognised
3.2 Legend is located on project drawings, and symbols

and abbreviations are correctly interpreted

Construction symbols and abbreviations are recognised
Some drawings need to convey a lot of information. To avoid confusion and to save
space, abbreviations, and symbols are used. These are standardised (used all over
Australia), and you’ll find that you soon become used to interpreting what they mean.
Abbreviations
Abbreviations can be created in different ways. In some cases, the word is shortened.
Examples include ‘ENS’ for ensuite and ‘CPBD’ for cupboard.
In other cases, initials are used. Examples include ‘WIR’ for walk-in robe and ‘WC’ for
water closet (toilet). There might be several recognised abbreviations for the same thing.
For example, you may see ‘brickwork’ shortened to BRK, BWK or just BK.
Some examples:
Abbreviation Meaning
BV Brick veneer
DPC / DPM Damp-proof course / damp-proof membrane
FFL Finished floor level
DH Double hung (windows)
FA Floor area
CF Concrete floor
BAL Balustrades
SS Stainless steel
ENS Ensuite
COL Column
FW Floor waste
BHD Bulkhead over
FCL Finished ceiling level

FC Fibre cement (sheet)
TYP Typical
RL Reduced level
Symbols
Like abbreviations, symbols are used instead of words on drawings to save space.
There are a lot of them, but they’re standardised (drawn the same way each time) to
avoid confusion, so don’t worry. Some of them look a lot like what they represent.
Some examples of symbols on plan in a bathroom
Bedroom symbols

Legend is located on project drawings, and symbols and
abbreviations are correctly interpreted
Legends
A legend is a list of symbols used in a drawing and their meanings. Not all drawings
have a legend; they tend to be used to explain less used or specialised symbols.
Electrical, hydraulic and engineering drawings commonly have lengends.
The legend shown here is from a site plan. Without this legend, the symbols on the
drawing could be misinterpreted.

Interpretation of an Electrical plan
Most sets of house drawings have a separate electrical plan. This is because if all the
information needed for the electrical layout was on the main floor plan, it would be
too cluttered.
Pictured here is part of an electrical plan and its legend. There are some
strange-looking symbols on it – circles, semicircles, etc. What these represent is shown
in the legend, which will be somewhere on the drawing.

SECTION FOUR
Locate and identify key features on a site plan
What you will learn
4.1 Orientation of the plan with the site is achieved
4.2 Key features of the site are identified and located
4.3 Access to site is gained and services, main features,

contours and datum are identified

Orientation of the plan with the site is achieved
Site analysis
Site analysis is an inventory completed as a preparatory step to site planning, a form of
urban planning which involves research, analysis, and synthesis. It primarily deals with basic
data as it relates to a specific site.
The topic itself branches into the boundaries of architecture, landscape architecture,
engineering, economics, and urban planning. Site analysis is an element in site planning and
design. Kevin A. Lynch, an urban planner developed an eight cycle step process of site
design, in which the second step is site analysis, the focus of this section.
Site plan building blocks

A site plan is a top view, bird’s eye view of a property that is drawn to scale. A site plan can
show:
Outline of existing Distance between

and proposed Distance between buildings and
Property lines
buildings and buildings property lines
structures (setbacks)
Parking lots,
Surrounding
indicating parking Driveways Landscaped areas
streets
spaces
Ground sign
Easements Utilities
location

Site plans
A site plan shows the entire block of land, or at least the part of the block where the
building will be. They are drawn at a small scale so that all the required information fits
on the sheet. Site plans shows existing features such as trees or other structures that
may already be on the site. Site plans also show information like:
Datum point
Proposed
building
Contour lines outline
North point
Boundaries
We will explore these later in the unit.

They also typically show things like:
Driveways and
paths
Fences
Retaining walls
Clothes lines

These are called ‘ancillary’ works (that is, additional to the main building works and
usually of a relatively minor nature). In some cases, the ancillary works are not included
in the building contract, the client or owner organises them later.
When you’re working with a site plan, it’s essential you read it the right way up; with
some projects this will not be as easy as it sounds. The easiest way is to choose a
feature shown on the plan and align the plan with this feature on the ground. Often
the street is the best feature to use. To use the street to align the plan, stand in the
street facing the site and turn the site plan to face the same way. This is referred to
as ‘orientation’.

Key features of the site are identified and located
On site storage containers can be crucial to the success of a construction, remodeling or
demolition project. Whether you’re adding on, renovating or building from the ground up,
optimal storage for tools, materials and key equipment is an essential consideration for
construction companies.
However, there are some important elements you should insist upon. No matter what the
size or scope of your project, look for these five important features in on site storage
containers:
1. Durability in Design, Materials and Construction
The best on site storage containers for construction sites will be strong enough to both
house your supplies and withstand a range of conditions. From weather changes to
workplace hazards, on site storage containers should be able to handle it. The best on site
storage containers are made of thick steel and embody resilient construction and design.
2. High Visibility and Safety Features
Construction sites can be dangerous enough, and your on-site storage containers should not
add to these hazards. Look for on-site storage containers that do not have sharp edges or
other elements that could pose a risk to persons on the job site. The colour of onsite
storage containers can add to their safety and visibility as well, favour bright colours like
orange or bright white. The safety of grey on site storage containers or other colours can be
enhanced with reflective safety tape to assist with visibility.
3. Security for Your Tools and Equipment
The security of the contents of onsite storage containers is another component of their
effectiveness. Tools, materials, equipment, and other components are crucial to the success
of your construction project. Favour on site storage containers that have double locking
doors so that you can be assured maximum security of your items even when you are not
on site.
4. Flexible and Versatile
On site storage containers should also be sizable and versatile enough to house a range of
materials. Whether you need to store tools, equipment, materials, overstock or general
items, the unit should be able to accommodate them. A range of size options is ideal so that
you can select the perfect storage configuration for your needs. Large double doors allow
for easy addition and removal of items from on site storage containers as needed.
5. A Proven Provider

Lastly, on site storage containers should be obtained from a trusted, reputable source.
Lakeshore Recycling Systems offers on site storage solutions for the construction industry to
assist in the safe storage of tools, construction materials, equipment, overstock items and
general storage. Our onsite storage containers have all of the features discussed here – and
more.
If you are planning a construction, renovation or demolition project, count on Lakeshore

Recycling Systems for all your onsite storage needs. Give us a call and we’ll assist you in
connecting with the perfect size, volume and quantity of onsite storage containers for your
outdoor storage needs.
Any construction project management has two philosophies, i.e. time-driven and cost-
driven. Managing cost of construction project with completion in time with high quality and
achievement of objectives is called project management.
A project shall have its own characteristics set aside so that it can be completed within
budget and time. As cost and time for a construction project are interdependent, these shall
be carefully planned. An increase or decrease in construction project time affects the budget
of construction projects. These set characteristics define the projects and helps in
completing the project in time.

Access to site is gained and services, main features, contours
and datum are identified
Contour plans
Contour plans are a graphical representation of the lay of the land. They show the degree of
slope on a site. They typically relate back to a site datum referred to as a TBM (temporary
benchmark) and may also relate to AHD (Australian height datum). They can be used to
determine the extent of cut and fill needed, the height of retaining walls, and the overall
finished height of buildings referenced back to natural ground level.
To produce a contour, plan a surveyor takes a series of levels over the site at regular grid
spacing. These readings are recorded in a surveyor's logbook and converted to RLs (reduced
levels), which are plotted onto a grid overlaid on the site plan. A draftsperson can then draw
lines of best fit between equal RLs. This gives lines that represent each contour interval, eg
RL 5.500. Any feature matching this contour will have a level of RL 5.5 m.
Detail Surveys Contour drawings for construction drawings are used so as the designers can
determine the best position of the proposed building horizontally and vertically.
They are usually prepared by surveyors on drawings called detail surveys. As the name
implies the purpose of the drawing is to detail the features of the site such as,
Direction of fall of the land
Location of Trees
Location of existing structures
Location of services
Location of any other features that

may affect the design & placement
of the building

Understanding Contours
Contours Lines - are imaginary lines that joint points of the same height above the datum
(points of equal elevation. They allow a person viewing the plan which is 2 dimensional to
form an impression of its 3-dimensional shape.
It is important that the contours refer to a datum so as construction based on the design will
be built at the appropriate height.
Contour Interval – the contour lines represent the height of the land in the form of a
Reduced Level above the datum. Each contour will represent a different Reduced Level, so
an impression of the shape of the land can be formed the contours must be determined at a
regular intervals. This is the Contour Interval.
The excerpt from a site plan gives an example of the contour interval; in this case it is
200mm

SECTION FIVE
Identify project requirements
What you will learn

5.1 Dimensions for project and nominated locations are
identified
5.2 Construction types and dimensions for nominated

locations are identified
5.3 Environmental controls and locations are identified
5.4 Location, dimensions and tolerances for ancillary

works are identified

Dimensions for project and nominated locations are identified
Dimensions are a very important part of construction drawings. Without them, no-one
would know what size anything should be. In this section, we’ll look at some of the
different types of dimensions and how they are shown in drawings.
A good designer or draftsperson will make sure that a drawing has all the information
needed about the length, width and height of everything that is to be built.
Length and width are usually indicated with rows of ‘dimension lines’ that align with the
various features of the drawing.
Alternatively, there might be a note near the feature – for example, ‘830 wide × 25 c
opening’.
Units and terms

In Australia, the metric system is used for all construction dimensions. Dimensions
on drawings are shown either as millimetres or as metres, although the abbreviations
for these (mm or m) are rarely shown. This does not cause confusion, as it should be
obvious which is meant – a bedroom shown as 3200 wide is not going to be 3200
metres!
Centimetres aren’t used in plans, or in construction generally, with the exception that
a tree may be shown on the site plan as ‘40 cm girth’. (It may be a requirement of the
contract that some existing trees on the block are to be left untouched.)
Dimensions in millimetres can be shown with or without a thousand separator, such as

a comma or space. For example, 3200, 3 200 or 3,200 can all be used. In the following
example, the designer has used a comma as a thousand separator.
Sometimes metres are shown with a decimal point. They may be shown to one, two or
three decimal places. For example, the width of the building block may be shown on
the site plan as 35.0, 35.00 or 35.000 (which all mean the same thing). In the following
example, the designer has shown the site plan dimensions following the same method
as the floor plans using commas.
In some situations, other ways of showing sizes may be used. For example, windows
in a brick building are shown as brick courses high × bricks wide, such as 12 c × 4.5.
This makes perfect sense to a bricklayer (and to you when you’re more familiar with the
jargon used in the industry).
‘Length’, ‘width’ and ‘height’ are terms used as usual, but the term ‘depth’ can have a
different meaning when used with building sizes. It can mean the distance from the
front to the back of something. For example, a block of land that measures 35.0 m by
55.0 m would be described as 35.0 wide and 55.0 deep, although we would also say
that the side boundary is 55.0 long.
Depth is also used to describe fixtures such as cupboards and wardrobes – a 600 deep
cupboard indicates that it is 600 mm from front to back.

Construction types and dimensions for nominated locations are
identified
Representing dimensions
At first glance, the rows of dimensions on the floor plan of a house may look confusing.
To make the dimensions easier to find and read, the draftsperson labels some of them.
Buildings with a simpler layout may show just the dimensions without the labels. If
you’re not sure which dimension goes with which part of a plan, use a ruler or other
straight edge to line them up against and make it easier to check.
The dimension style used in the drawing on the next page has large dots as the
terminators of a dimension (to show where it starts and stops). Other drawings might
use arrows or slashes as terminators. It’s really up to the draftsperson or company
style.

Environmental controls and locations are identified
Reduced levels
Reduced levels indicate heights on a drawing. They are usually shown to two decimal
places only – that is, to the nearest 10 mm.
Reduced levels may have ‘RL’ in front of them to show that the figure represents a
reduced level, for example, RL 12.65. Another draftsperson might put them in a little
box instead, like this:
12.65
12.65
An RL on a drawing indicates the height of that point relative to a given reference point.
This reference point is called the job datum (or sometimes the temporary benchmark
or TBM) and is a fixed, unmovable point for the project. It may be marked by a nail
driven into a metal plate on the kerb at the front of the block, or even a nail in the road.
It will be given a height value by the architect and all points on the site can be related in
height to this point (ie above or below).
The RL of the job datum is often an arbitrary number decided by the architect or
surveyor, and is usually a round number such as 10.00 or 20.00.
The job datum may sometimes be related to the Australian Height Datum and have an
RL that reflects this, such as 18.635. What this actually means is the datum is 18.635
metres above sea level.
In 1971 it was decided that the Australian Height Datum would be taken from the mean
sea level during 1966–1968. It was assigned a value of 0.000 m. Since then all levels
relating to the Australian Height Datum have been taken from this point.

Location, dimensions, and tolerances for ancillary works are
identified
Location plans
A location plan can show many blocks of land (sites) in a particular location. You may
have seen one on a sign next to a new land subdivision where blocks are going up for
sale. Location plans aren’t typically included in a set of construction drawings.
The location plans show the shape and size of each block, and which street or road they are
situated on. They give potential purchasers or developers a better idea of where their block
of land is located compared to others in the area. Sometimes when these plans are shown
on signs, they include the price of each block.
On this example of a location plan, you can see the blocks of land have many different
shapes and sizes and the streets are clearly defined.
On these types of plans each block is given a lot number. These are generally consecutive
numbers (unlike street numbers that are even on one side of the street and odd on the
other). Lot numbers are used on official documents like certificates of title or future building
applications even after street or house numbers have been allocated.
Dimensioning
Before an object can be built,

complete information about
both the size and shape of Geometrics is the science of
the object must be available. specifying and tolerancing
The exact shape of an object the shapes and locations of
Dimensioning a drawing also
is communicated through features on objects. Once the
identifies the tolerance (or
orthographic drawings, which shape of a part is defined
accuracy) required for each
are developed following with an orthographic
dimension
standard drawing practices. drawings, the size
The process of adding size information is added also in
information to a drawing is the form of dimensions
known as dimensioning the
drawing
If a part is dimensioned
properly, then the intent of A fully defined part has three
the designer is clear to both elements: graphics,
the person making the part dimensions, and words
and the inspector checking (notes)
the part

Size and Location Dimensions
A well dimensioned part will communicate the size and location

requirements for each feature. Communications is the fundamental
purpose of dimensions
Parts are dimensioned based on two criteria: 1. Basic size and

locations of the features. 2. Details of a part's construction and for
manufacturing
Unit of measure
Most countries outside of the

On a drawing used in United States use the metric
American industry, all system of measure, or the
dimensions are in inches, international system of units
unless otherwise stated. (SI), which is based on the
meter
The SI system is being used

Occasionally, a company will
more in the United States
used dual dimensioning, that
because of global trade and
is, both metric and English
multinational company
measurements on a drawing
affiliations
Angular dimensions are

shown either in decimal
degrees or in degrees,
minutes, and seconds

SECTION SIX
Read and interpret job specifications
What you will learn
6.1 Job specifications are identified from drawings, notes

and descriptions
6.2 Standards of work, finishes and tolerances are

identified from the project specifications
6.3 Material attributes are identified from

specifications

Job specifications are identified from drawings, notes and
descriptions
Job Description and Job Specification
Job Analysis is a primary tool to collect job-related data. The process results in collecting
and recording two data sets including job description and job specification. Any job vacancy
cannot be filled until and unless HR manager has these two sets of data. It is necessary to
define them accurately in order to fit the right person at the right place and at the right
time. This helps both employer and employee understand what exactly needs to be
delivered and how.
Both job description and job specification are essential parts of job analysis information.
Writing them clearly and accurately helps organization and workers cope with many
challenges while onboard.
Though preparing job description and job specification are not legal requirements yet play a
vital role in getting the desired outcome. These data sets help in determining the necessity,
worth and scope of a specific job.
Job Description
Job description includes basic job-related data that is useful to advertise a specific job and
attract a pool of talent. It includes information such as job title, job location, reporting to
and of employees, job summary, nature and objectives of a job, tasks and duties to be
performed, working conditions, machines, tools and equipment to be used by a prospective
worker and hazards involved in it.

Purpose of Job Description
The main purpose of job description is to collect job-related data in

order to advertise for a particular job. It helps in attracting, targeting,
recruiting and selecting the right candidate for the right job.
It is done to determine what needs to be delivered in a particular job.

It clarifies what employees are supposed to do if selected for that
particular job opening
It gives recruiting staff a clear view what kind of candidate is required

by a particular department or division to perform a specific task or job
It also clarifies who will report to whom
Job Specification
Also known as employee specifications, a job specification is a written statement of
educational qualifications, specific qualities, level of experience, physical, emotional,
technical and communication skills required to perform a job, responsibilities involved in a
job and other unusual sensory demands. It also includes general health, mental health,
intelligence, aptitude, memory, judgment, leadership skills, emotional ability, adaptability,
flexibility, values and ethics, manners, and creativity, etc.
Purpose of Job Specification
Described on the basis of job description, job specification helps candidates analyze
whether are eligible to apply for a particular job vacancy or not
It helps recruiting team of an organization understand what level of qualifications,

qualities and set of characteristics should be present in a candidate to make him or her
eligible for the job opening
Job Specification gives detailed information about any job including job responsibilities,
desired technical and physical skills, conversational ability and much more
It helps in selecting the most appropriate candidate for a particular job
Job description and job specification are two integral parts of job analysis. They define a job
fully and guide both employer and employee on how to go about the whole process of
recruitment and selection. Both data sets are extremely relevant for creating a right fit

between job and talent, evaluate performance and analyse training needs and measuring
the worth of a particular job.

Standards of work, finishes and tolerances are identified from
the project specifications
A work standard is a written description of how a process should be done. It guides
consistent execution. At its best, it documents a current “best practice” and ensures that it is
implemented throughout a company. At a minimum, it provides a baseline from which a
better approach can be developed.
Key Actions
Sets standards for excellence—Establishes criteria and/or work

procedures to achieve a high level of quality, productivity, or service.
Ensures high quality—Dedicates required time and energy to assignments

or tasks to ensure that no aspect of the work is neglected; works to
overcome obstacles to completing tasks or assignments.
Takes responsibility—Accepts responsibility for outcomes (positive or

negative) of one’s work; admits mistakes and refocuses efforts when
appropriate.
Encourages others to take responsibility—Provides encouragement and

support to others in accepting responsibility; does not accept others’
denial of responsibility without questioning.

Material attributes are identified from specifications
Material Specifications means the description of the Material, including requirements,
tolerances, shelf life, specifications, suppliers and safety data, that are set forth in Exhibit D.
Item Specifications and Attributes
Item specifications are groups of attributes that determine item characteristics such as item
cost or lead time. You set these attributes when you define or update items.
From the Specifications tab on the Edit Item or Create Item pages, you can navigate
through attribute groups to access and modify item attributes.
The types of attributes that are accessible from the specifications tab include the following:
1. Operational attributes: These are organized into the following specification groups:
Costing General Planning Inventory Invoicing
MRP and MPS Order

Lead Times Physical Attributes
Planning Management
Process
Main Overview Purchasing
Manufacturing
Receiving Service Structures Web Store
1. User-defined attributes: These can be accessed through links on the Specifications

tab.
2. Transactional attributes: These can be viewed for a specific date.

There are particular relationships enforced between some of the item attributes: These
relationships fall into two groups:
Interdependent attributes: You can

enter only certain values depending on
other attribute values. For
example, Planning Method must
be Not Planned if Pick
Components is set to Yes. These
interdependencies may be between
attributes within the same specification
group or between attributes in different
specification groups

Item Attributes
Attributes are named entities whose values describe various qualities of a product item.
The following types of attributes are available:
Main attributes
Operational attributes
Additional information User-defined attribute

Transactional attributes
attributes groups and attributes


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Document Title: Student Learning Guide

Document Subtitle: CPCCCM2001A - Read and interpret plans

Name of document: Student Learning Guide Version 1 Page 2 of 60

Before you begin

This guide uses a series of icons to help focus your learning

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What you will learn

1.2 Key features and functions of each type of drawing

1.3 Quality requirements of company operations are

1.4 Environmental requirements and controls are

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Architectural Structural Electrical Plumbing Finishing

Drawings for construction projects can be created by a range of people, depending on

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Different types of plans include:

Location plan Site or block plan Floor plans Elevations

Sections Detailed drawings Specifications A title block

Construction plan Longitudinal plan Footing plan

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Key to site plan

Block identification. When land is subdivided, each block is

Boundary. The boundary is the imaginary line that defines the

Road identification. The name of the road shows where the

North point. The direction of north is shown to assist in

Proposed building. The location of the proposed house is

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Adjacent properties. The adjacent lot numbers are shown, and

Existing fences. Any existing boundary fences should be shown.

Easement. An easement is a part of the land over which another

Contour level. This indicates the ‘reduced level’ of the contour

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Location of power connection. This indicates to the electrician

Boundary length. This indicates the length of each boundary.

Setback. This is the distance from the front boundary to the

Crossover. This is the continuation of the driveway across the

Path. Any paving included in the contract is shown.

Clothes hoist. The position of the clothes hoist is indicated.

Name of document: Student Learning Guide Version 1 Page 10 of 60

Positions of internal doors

Dimensions and measurements

Locations of wet areas

Outline of the roof design

Inspection and discussion of plans

Electrical, gas and

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Section drawings represents the material of construction to be used, heights and

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A plan view could be a plan of:

Specific parts of the

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Key functions of drawings

Identifying surrounding structures or properties

Identifying general characteristics of the project

Highlighting landscaping features

Showing drainage lines

Showing service or utility locations

Identifying formation types