Floor System

© Shutterstock
CPCCCA3003A
Install flooring systems
Unit version Document version Release date Comments/actions
CPCCCA3003A V1
CPCCCA3003A V1.1 16/09/2018 Assessing Risks

content added in
Material Safe Work
Practices section
CPCCCA3003A V1.2 July 2020 Amendments to Q3 in

Clean Up Learning
Activity
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CPCCCA3003A - Install flooring systems
Introduction
This Learner Guide has been developed to support you as a resource for your study
program. It contains key information relating to your studies including all the skills and
knowledge required to achieve competence.
What will I learn?

This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to plan, prepare, set out and install
timber flooring systems to support imposed loads. It includes application in brick veneer, full
masonry and timber frame construction.
Are there any special requirements?

Your facilitator will let you know if you need to organise and bring any additional equipment
or personal protective equipment.
Page 2 of 167 | © TAFE Queensland 2016

TAFE Queensland student rules

TAFE Queensland student rules are designed to ensure that learners are aware of their
rights as well as their responsibilities. All learners are encouraged to familiarise themselves
with the TAFE Queensland student rules, specifically as they relate to progress of study and
assessment guidelines. A full guide to student rules can be found at Student rules 1. 0F
Information to support your learning and assessment

There’s always someone to help you. Undertaking further study can bring both excitement
and challenges. Our Student Services, Learning Support and Library staff can help you make
the most of your time at TAFE.
Callout panels
A number of panels have been designed to help guide you to important information and
actions throughout this Learner Guide. The full choice of panels you are likely to encounter to
support you in your studies are included below. NB: not all the panels will be used in every
learner guide.
1 http://tafeqld.edu.au/current-students/student-rules/
© TAFE Queensland 2016 | Page 3 of 167

Contents
Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 2
What will I learn? ............................................................................................................... 2
Are there any special requirements? ................................................................................. 2
TAFE Queensland student rules ........................................................................................ 3
Information to support your learning and assessment ........................................................ 3
Callout panels.................................................................................................................... 3
Contents ................................................................................................................................ 4
Welcome ............................................................................................................................... 7
Required resources ........................................................................................................... 7
Following occupational health and safety requirements ......................................................... 8
Safety plans and policies ................................................................................................... 8
Risk management.............................................................................................................15
Personal protective equipment .........................................................................................17
Employer and employee responsibilities ...........................................................................23
Signage and barricades ....................................................................................................25
Equipment selection and serviceability .................................................................................31
Planning tools and equipment ..........................................................................................31
Tool use and your health ..................................................................................................32
Other considerations for tools and equipment...................................................................33
Tools and equipment checked for serviceability ................................................................35
Tag out equipment............................................................................................................36
Material quantities calculation...............................................................................................47
Measuring building materials ............................................................................................47
Material safe work practices .................................................................................................53
Assessing risks.................................................................................................................53
Construction materials ......................................................................................................58
Handling materials safely..................................................................................................63

Obtaining materials...........................................................................................................65
Environmental requirements .................................................................................................66
Environmental concerns ...................................................................................................66
Useful resources ..............................................................................................................70
Learning activity - prepare for work ...................................................................................72
Introduction to flooring ..........................................................................................................75
Introduction: flooring materials ..........................................................................................75
Terminology......................................................................................................................76
Measurement of sub-floor members .................................................................................78
Flooring types ...................................................................................................................79
Learning activity: introduction to flooring ...........................................................................82
Engineer designed products .................................................................................................84
Introduction: engineer designed timber products ..............................................................84
Glue laminated timber ......................................................................................................84
Truss systems ..................................................................................................................86
Fire rated construction ..........................................................................................................87
Introduction.......................................................................................................................87
Fire Resistance Level (FRL) .............................................................................................89
Structural timber and steel ................................................................................................90
Fire walls ..........................................................................................................................90
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) ..............................................................................................92
Insulation ..............................................................................................................................95
Sub-floor framing ..................................................................................................................96
Introduction.......................................................................................................................96
Case study: gazebo project ..............................................................................................97
1. Load width calculations...............................................................................................100
2. Bearer calculations .....................................................................................................102
3. Floor joist calculations ................................................................................................106
4. Decking board calculations .........................................................................................110
5. Setting out sub floor ....................................................................................................114

Learning activity: timber bearer installation .....................................................................123

6. Install floor joists .........................................................................................................125
Learning activity: floor joists............................................................................................132
7. Install flooring .............................................................................................................134
Learning activity: flooring ................................................................................................140
Clean up .............................................................................................................................142
Introduction.....................................................................................................................142
Worker safely and sites obligations ................................................................................142
Environmental considerations and obligations ................................................................144
Importance of equipment maintenance ...........................................................................145
Useful resources - clean up ............................................................................................149
Learning activity - clean up .............................................................................................150
Check your activity answers ...............................................................................................152
Activity 1 .........................................................................................................................152
Activity 2 .........................................................................................................................154
Activity 3 .........................................................................................................................156
Activity 4 .........................................................................................................................157
Activity 5 .........................................................................................................................158
Activity 6 .........................................................................................................................159
Activity 7 .........................................................................................................................161
Glossary .............................................................................................................................163
References .........................................................................................................................164

Welcome
Welcome to the unit, CPCCCA3003A - Install flooring systems.
By completing this unit, you will be able to:
• Plan and prepare
• Set out sub-floor frame
• Install timber bearers
• Install timber floor joists
• Install flooring
• Clean up
Required resources
Your facilitator will let you know if you need to organise and bring any additional equipment
or personal protective equipment.

Following occupational health and safety requirements
Safety plans and policies
© Shutterstock
Organisational safety policies and procedures, and project safety plans are based on state or
territory legislation, regulations, and codes of practice. Safety plans and policies developed
by the employer may include:
Induction procedures
Did you know a site specific induction is no longer a requirement under

the Work health and Safety legislation?
The Principal Contractor does however, have a responsibility to
communicate the contents of the Work, Health and Safety
management plan to anyone entering the site and this is often most
practically achieved through a site specific induction.
© Shutterstock

Emergency procedures
© TAFE Queensland
All workplaces should have procedures in place to deal with a potential site emergency.
Employees need to know the procedures so they can be followed calmly and confidently if an
emergency does occur.
Example
Examples of emergency procedures include:
• Emergency shutdown and stopping.
• Extinguishing fires.
• Organisational first aid requirements.
• Evacuation.

Handling of materials
© Shutterstock
In the construction industry workers are exposed to a broad range of materials and some of
these materials may place them at risk of injury, or cause short and long term health issues.
Most often a combination of PPE (such as gloves and eye protection) and engineering
controls (such as trolleys) are used in conjunction with one another.

Hazard control
Hazard control can involve a single control measure (such as

requiring workers to wear ear plugs or other hearing protection
devices) or in combination with other levels of control such as
engineering controls which may involve placing a sound wall
barrier between the noise source and the worker.
Protective clothing must be worn

© Shutterstock
Hazardous materials and substances
There are many hazardous materials and substances in the

construction industry and understanding what risks these pose to
workers in the long term is the key to managing worker safety.
© TAFE Queensland

Safe operating procedures
© Shutterstock
Including the conduct of operational risk assessment and treatments associated with traffic
control, work site visitors and the public, working at heights and working in proximity to
others.
© Shutterstock
Safe operating procedures provide step-by-step procedures that make a safe environment
for construction workplaces and their operations. This will include items such as site specific
rules and Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for high risk construction work.

Organisational first aid
© Shutterstock
While first aid can be delivered in an emergency by any person to an individual or group of
people to place them in a position of safety, it is the first aid trained person who should really
deliver appropriate levels of attention ready for further transport to the hospital or a doctor.
Your organisation has a responsibility to ensure first aiders are properly trained to deal with
these situations.
Use of firefighting equipment
Within your organisation fire wardens will be trained in the

identification, selection and use of firefighting equipment depending
upon location and ignition source of the fire.
© TAFE Queensland

Use of tools and equipment
Training is essential in the safe use of tools and equipment; you must ensure that tools and
equipment are in good condition, kept clean and stored appropriately.
Workplace environment and safety
The Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 specifies the way work
activities must be carried out to ensure a safe and healthy workplace
to protect workers and the environment.
© Shutterstock
Workplace and equipment safety requirements
A business must ensure as far as is reasonably practicable, the health

and safety (physical and mental) of all of its workers. Safework
Australia 2014 explain that being qualified by ”so far as is reasonably
practicable” means the organisation does not have to guarantee that
no harm will occur, but must do what is reasonably able to be done to
ensure every worker’s health and safety.
© Shutterstock
Video
Watch the full video titled “Safety Plans and Policies” - ask your teacher for the
local location of the videos.
Alternatively, view the video from the Connect link below
https://connect.tafeqld.edu.au/d2l/le/content/7740/viewContent/2191593/View

Risk management
© Shutterstock
To eliminate or minimise health and safety risks arising from the business or undertaking
businesses undertake a process, that is known as risk management, which involves the
following four steps.
Identifying hazards
A hazard means a situation or thing that has the potential to harm a person. The aim of
identifying hazards is to find out what could cause harm.
Remember, not all hazards can be eliminated and exposure may be unacceptable.
For example, a gas leak. However, other hazards may be able to be controlled, to minimise
the risk to workers and allow workers to perform their normal day to day work activities.
Assessing risks
A risk is the possibility that harm, death, injury, or illness might occur when exposed to a
hazard. Assessing risk involves understanding the nature of the harm that could be caused
by the hazard, how serious the harm could be, and the likelihood of it happening. Information
can be found in Safety Data Sheets (SDS), Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and Safe Work
Method Statements (SWMS).

Controlling risks
Controlling risks involves implementing the most effective control measure, that is reasonably
practicable in the circumstances. This means implementing the most effective control method
possible in the circumstances, or to put it another way, it means,what can be done, should be
done. Unless it is reasonable in the circumstances for the PCBU (Duty holder) to do
something less.
Reviewing control measures
This is the final step to monitor and review the effectiveness of the control measures. The
control measures need to be monitored regularly, to determine whether the measures are
effective and have a positive impact in eliminating, or minimising specific risks. This involves
monitoring and reviewing control measures by regularly performing audits to ensure the
measures are working as planned. This is performed through regular administration review,
and ongoing site inspections and adjustments to the control measure where necessary.
Video
Watch the full video titled “Risk management” – ask your teacher for the local
location of the videos.

Personal protective equipment

PPE is critical in workers being able to safely and effectively use tools, plant and equipment.
Example
For example, this includes ear muffs, respirators, face masks, and hard hats.
Induction series
Many PCBUs and workers have come to rely on personal protective equipment and clothing
or PPE to protect them from particular hazards. But in fact the hazard is still present and
unless the PPE is properly selected and fitted, cleaned and maintained and its use is closely
monitored, it will do little to provide proper protection from exposure to the hazard.
© Channel 1 Creative Media © Channel 1 Creative Media

© Channel 1 Creative Media
Personal protective equipment and clothing is however used in a wide variety of industries
and can be effective where it is not practicable to eliminate or reduce the hazard. It can also
be useful in providing protection in emergencies, clean ups or when carrying out
maintenance procedures.
PPE includes:
• Helmets - That are worn to protect our head from falling objects
• Hats - That protect us from the harmful rays of the sun
• Hoods - That protect us from hazardous chemicals or fumes
• Ear muffs and plugs -In noisy environments a range of ear muffs and plugs protect
us from suffering noise induced hearing loss

• Sunglasses- Reduce the effects of ultra violet radiation and glare
• Safety glasses - Protect our eyes from flying objects, dust, chemical splashes or
flashes from welding equipment
• Gloves - Protect our hands from cuts and abrasions or from the effects of chemicals
or water
• Respirators and masks -Limit our exposure to dangerous substances or other

airborne contaminants
• Safety boots - Shoes provide protection for our feet and rubber boots may be
needed when working with chemicals or water

The need for personal protective clothing can range from wearing a uniform or overalls to
protect our own clothing, to jackets designed to keep out the cold or wet and overalls, shirts
and trousers to protect our skin from chemicals, sprays or sunlight. Aprons can prevent
damage from chemical splashes or simply keep us clean.
Whatever the sort of equipment or clothing we use, for it to effectively reduce our risk of
injury and disease it has to be the correct type for the particular job we are performing.
Example
For example, a mask that is suitable for protecting us from dust will not provide
suitable protection when using hazardous chemicals, the same type of glove is
not suitable protection against all types of solvents.


Whatever the sort of equipment or clothing we use, for it to effectively reduce our risk of
injury and disease it has to be the correct type for the particular job we are performing.
Equally important is the fit of the equipment - ill-fitting equipment or clothing may increase
your risk of injury or disease. It's important that you are given training in how to fit the
equipment correctly and that you follow these instructions carefully.
Signs are used in our workplace to indicate that a particular area is designated as an area
where PPE needs to be worn. Whether you work in that area or are just visiting, you need to
be familiar with and comply with the signs. Remember, even though the wearing of PPE
does not remove the hazard - you are putting your health and safety at risk if you ignore
these signs.
Hearing protection must be worn in this area Respirator must be worn in this area

Video
Watch the full video titled “WHS Personal protective equipment” – ask your
teacher for the local location of the videos.
Employer and employee responsibilities

Let’s learn about the expectations of employees and employers in following occupational
health and safety requirements.
Employee responsibilities
A worker must, so far as reasonably able, wear the PPE in accordance with any information,
training or reasonable instruction.
The worker must not intentionally misuse or damage the PPE and must inform the PCBU of
any damage to, defect in or need to clean or decontaminate the PPE of which the worker
becomes aware.
While at work a worker must:
• Take reasonable care for their own health and safety
• Take reasonable care for the health and safety of others
• Comply with any reasonable instructions, policies and procedure given by their
employer, business or controller (or other PCBU) of the workplace.

It is important workers understand and follow the workplace safety plans and policies and be
able to demonstrate the following:
• Locate, interpret and apply relevant information, standards and specifications
• Comply with site safety plan, OHS regulations and state and territory legislation
applicable to workplace operations
• Comply with organisational policies and procedures, including quality requirements
• Safely and effectively use tools, plant and equipment
• Communicate and work effectively and safely with others

o Use language and concepts appropriate to cultural and ethnic backgrounds
and with varying physical and mental abilities
o Use and interpret non-verbal communication, such as hand signals to access
and understand site-specific instructions.
Administrative controls
In this context workplace instructions and policies are relating to safe work practices and
addressing hazards and emergencies.
Safety plans and policies are developed to ensure that OHS requirements are understood
and followed.
These include safe operating procedures such as conducting operational risk assessments,
traffic control, and working at heights, emergency procedures such as emergency shutdown
and stopping, first aid, firefighting and evacuation procedures.
Employer responsibilities
Worksafe Queensland 2015 explain that the WHS Act and

Regulations require persons who have a duty to ensure health
and safety to ‘manage risks’ by eliminating health and safety
risks so far as is reasonably practicable, and if it is not
reasonably practicable.
© Shutterstock
Signage and barricades

The location and placement of signs and barricades on construction sites, is often dictated by
regulations.
Regulations help to identify how to protect workers, visitors and the public in a consistent and
professional way, and are enforceable by law.
© Shutterstock
Builders are responsible to ensure correct signage and barricades are in place. Regulations
require that all building sites have signs to identify the name and contact details of the
builder. Other signs are to inform, warn and protect everyone around the site.
© TAFE Queensland

Safety signs
Safety signs used on site generally fall into FOUR categories:
• Mandatory signs are blue with a white picture. Instructions that must be carried out.
• Warning signs have a yellow background and warn of a hazard that is not likely to be
life-threatening.
• Danger signs use white text in a red oval on black. They show dangers that are likely
to be life-threatening or cause death.
• Emergency signs are white pictures and text on a green square and show emergency-
related facilities.
Safety signs
© Shutterstock
Emergency signs
Example
Emergency signs
© Shutterstock

Warning signs
Warning signs hazards that are NOT likely to be life-threatening. Examples are: General
warning, Flammable materials, Explosion risk, Overhead crane.
General warning Flammable materials Explosion risk Overhead crane

© TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland © TAFE © TAFE Queensland
Queensland
Danger signs
Danger signs – hazardous condition

that is likely to be life-threatening.
Examples are No entry – authorised
personnel only, Men working above,
Demolition work in progress - KEEP
OUT, STOP! Unauthorised persons
keep out.
Danger signs
© TAFE Queensland

Mandatory signs
Mandatory signs have an instruction that must be carried out.
© Shutterstock
Before work begins
• A principal contractor must put up adequate safety signs to determine the nature of
the workplace and specify there is no unauthorised entry.
• Signs can use words, symbols, or a combination of these. These signs must always
be kept in good condition.
• Safety signs are to be placed to inform the workers of any safety requirements that
they are to undertake or any health concerns that may arise upon entering the area.
© TAFE Queensland

Caution and warning tapes
Caution and warning tapes provide a visual barricade to block off designated areas. These
tapes block off potential hazards.
© Shutterstock
Barricade
There are various types of barricades used on sites. Barricades are temporary fences that
separate workers and others from potential danger.
© Shutterstock
Hoarding
Hoarding is typically used on commercial sites to provide protection

for pedestrians. Hoarding is used when a fence is not enough
protection. It often includes a walkway with overhead scaffolding,
side fencing and reinforced roofing.
Hoarding
© Shutterstock

Video
Watch the full video titled “Signs and barricades” – ask your teacher for the

Equipment selection and serviceability
Planning tools and equipment

Planning is an important part in a successful outcome. Selecting what tools and equipment to
be used, and choosing whether to purchase or hire the equipment, are decisions that will
affect the profit margin.
Tools and equipment are selected by their:
• Performance
• Hourly cost
• Limitations to their operations such as

o Cutting depths
o Angle restrictions
o Site conditions © Shutterstock
o Cost of servicing
o Availability of spare parts
The tools should be able to complete more than one function and should be inter-convertible
if possible for the majority of tasks required for the particular piece of equipment.
The role of selecting onsite equipment and machineries is a key factor in success. By
increasing efficiency, productivity and reducing manual contribution.
Hand tools should:
• Be balanced, and does not tip forward or back when

you hold it.
• Have a handle that is comfortable in your hand and

preferably non-slip.
• Have a handle that is long enough for your whole

hand.
© Shutterstock

Power tools should:
• Have a low vibration and noise levels
• Heavy enough to complete the job but not so heavy

to cause strain.
• A long trigger so that more than one finger can be

used.
© Shutterstock
Tool use and your health

It is how you use the tool safely which is just as important as selecting the correct tool for the
job.
Important
Everyone has different hand size, strength and preferences. Find equipment that
fits your requirements. Do not use a tool for a job that it is not designed for.
Safe work practices are critical for business to look after their worker’s health and safety and
minimise the costs of real and potential workplace injuries.
Workers can be exposed to harmful levels of activity when using hand and power tools. For
example, some risks may result from manual repetition, and others from factors such as
vibration.
Carpel tunnel
Video
Watch the video below which takes a look at Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J11EIfiHMYw

Hand Arm Vibration (HAV)
Video
Watch the video below which takes a look at Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eURK0Th41XU
Trigger finger
Web link
Visit the following link to visit the Mayo Clinic website and learn about trigger
finger http://mayocl.in/2hExZ29.
Other considerations for tools and equipment

The environmental impact must also be considered such as emissions, leaks, noise and
vibrations. We also need to consider the water, fuel and energy consumption of the
equipment we use.
© Shutterstock
Consideration should be given to the erection and positioning of the plant in the workplace.

Example
For example, Power lines and Scaffolds.
© Shutterstock
Plant such as scaffolds require inspection checklists to be followed once a scaffold has been
erected before it is handed over.
Web link
WorkCover Queensland provides a guide to scaffold inspection and
maintenance, and further information can be found in WHS Scaffolding Code of
Practice 2009 http://bit.ly/2hz6swd.
Did you know?

To assist in their process businesses are now establishing environmental
management systems (EMS). The international standard for Environmental
management systems is ISO 14001.

Web link
Compliancehelp Consulting http://bit.ly/2gKDhI2 explain the specific
requirements to enable businesses to develop and implement a policy and
objectives which take into account legal requirements and other requirements to
which they subscribe, and information about significant environmental aspects.
For further information about ISO 14001 see the ‘Useful Resources’ section.
Tools and equipment checked for serviceability

Tools and equipment require ongoing maintenance
and services just like a car.
Following is an example of serviceability on a
power saw. These fundamentals can be used for
any tool or piece of equipment.
A power saw should be checked daily to look for
any faults or the guards are working correctly.
The blades must be checked regularly to ensure
© Shutterstock
your own personal safety and that of your work
colleagues. If there is damage to a piece of
equipment report to supervisor, tag out if necessary and send to a licenced dealer for repair.
© Shutterstock

Important
It is important you are aware of any serviceability requirements for any tool on the
construction site. There are no excuses for not regularly checking and servicing
your tools and equipment.
Did you know?

Hilti offer no cost repairs for up to 2 years on their products.
Tag out equipment

When we find equipment that we believe is damaged, it is a requirement and our duty of care
to report the faulty equipment to the Supervisor and tag the equipment out. The aim is to
ensure all unsafe plant and equipment are identified and removed from the energy source.
Lockout tagout
Many industrial accidents and serious injuries are caused by the uncontrolled release of
hazardous energy. Many of these accidents could have been prevented by proper
lockout/tagout procedures. Whenever you work on plant or equipment a safe system of work
is required. When this work is other than the normal operation of the equipment, In other
words cleaning, maintaining or repairing plant or equipment the level of risk is increased
greatly. Lockout isolation tags must be fitted to reduce this risk.
Important
It’s important that you treat all machines on site as if they can start automatically.
Never assume!


Isolation procedures
The isolation procedure should include:
Shutting the plant down
Identifying and isolating all energy sources and other

hazards
Identifying and locking out all isolation points

De-energising all stored energies
Tagging plant controls, energy sources and other

hazards
Please note that a tag is not in itself an effective isolation device.
A tag acts only as a means of providing information to others at the workplace. A lock should
be used in preference to a tag, as an isolation device.

The different types of tags include:
The out of service tags
These should be dated with the workers name, contact details including mobile number,
details of the defect and signed. Out of Service tags are placed for the protection of all
workers in the general area and must not be removed until the fault listed is remedied.

Danger tags
Danger Tags must also be dated with the workers name, contact details including mobile
number, and signed. These are to be placed only for the protection of personnel working on
plant and therefore can be removed only by the person who placed them immediately that
person completes their work, or finishes their shift. If the plant is still unfit for use at the end
of a shift, an Out of Service Tag should replace the danger tag.
Personal locks
Each person who is likely to be in a position to lockout a piece of equipment for work should
have in their possession at least one individually keyed lock. A lock or locking tie must never
be used without the accompanying warning tag. Once the plant has been shut down, locked
out and tagged, It is most important that all isolated power sources are tested with the
appropriate instruments.
Never assume an isolator has locked out an electricity source simply because it is in an open
position. Someone who fully understands the plant should try to re-activate it whilst it is in
lockout mode. This will ensure that the isolation procedures are effective and all stored
energies have been dissipated before any person attempts to start work on the plant. If more
than one person is working on the same plant, each person should attach their own lock and

tag to each lockout point so that the machine cannot possibly be turned on whilst someone is
at risk.

Locks can only be removed by the person who placed them. If that person is not available a
strict procedure should be followed. This includes:
Determining exactly where the person who

placed the tag is.
Determining the status of the equipment

Filling out the appropriate risk assessment
And only then removing the lock.
Locks, locking ties and warning tags must

only be removed by those who applied them
in the first place. This should be done as
soon as possible after work has been
completed.

Video
Watch the full video titled “WHS Tag out equipment” – ask your teacher for the
The Personal Danger tag is coloured red and black on a white background and complies with
AS 1319.
It indicates that the plant to which the tag is attached is being worked on by the individual
whose name appears on the tag and the plant cannot be operated.
The Out of Service tag is black lettering on a yellow background with a caution symbol and
complies with AS 1319.
Out of Service tags identify plant removed from service because a fault makes the plant
unsafe to operate.


Material quantities calculation
Measuring building materials

No matter the size of a construction project, from a saw stool to a multi-story building,
materials are needed to build it. Whilst many items are costed per unit (such as doors, taps
and hot water systems) or by the hour (such as labour), materials are costed by their units of
measurement.
Construction materials include concrete, brickwork, timber, steel, aluminium, glass, tiles,
PVC pipes and a host of other products.
Important
It is important that materials arrive on site in the right quantities, at the time they
are needed. Correctly calculating these quantities is a vital part of successful
building.
Millimetres and metres are the basic units of measurement used in the building industry.
• Lengths are described in millimetres (mm) and metres (m).
• Areas are described in metres squared (square metres).
• Volumes are described in metres cubed (cubic metres).

Linear measurement
Timber, steel, aluminium and PVC pipes are all examples of building materials that are
linear. They are measured, and ordered, in linear metres, for example: 8 PVC pipes at 6
metres long. The PVC order looks like this.
© TAFE Queensland
Timber is identified by its cross-section,for example, 70 millimetres by 35 millimetres and its

length for example, 2 lengths at 3.9 metres and 4 lengths at 4.8 metres. The timber order
would look like this. Perimeter is an example of linear measurement.
© TAFE Queensland

Perimeter
Perimeter is an example of linear measurement.
Example
For example, to find how much wood is required for preparing formwork to build a
terrace, we can just add the length of the sides. Using the Perimeter formula,
length equals 5 plus 6 plus 5 plus 6. Therefore the length equals 22 metres.
© TAFE Queensland
Area
A floors’ size is described by its area in metres squared.
Example
For example the size of the floor is length times width. Using the Area formula
(length x width). Area equals 5 times 4. Therefore the Area equals 20 metres
squared.

© TAFE Queensland
Other materials that are ordered by area are surface finishes (e.g. carpet and floor tiles) and
linings (e.g. plasterboard).

© Shutterstock
Volume
A concrete slab is described by its volume in metres cubed.
Example
For example, volume is length times width times depth, so if a concrete BBQ slab
measured 7 metres long by 3 metres wide by 75 millimetres deep, the concrete
needed to pour it, would be: 7 by 3 by .075, therefore the Volume equals 1.575
metres cubed.
© TAFE Queensland

© TAFE Queensland
Other materials that are measured by volume are: soil, gravel, sand, bulk cement. The
information needed to calculate material quantities, is found in the project plans,
specifications, and quality requirements.The builder will carefully study these documents to
calculate: accurate quantities, construction timelines and labour costs The builder can then
produce a quote (or price) to build the project.
Video
Watch the full video titled “Measuring building materials” – ask your teacher for
the local location of the videos.

Material safe work practices
Assessing risks
When assessing the risks, we need to take into account the consequences that could be a
result of the risk. The following Risk Assessment Matrix shows how you can combine the
Consequence with the Likelihood of it occurring to find out the probable risk.
The Risk Assessment Matrix below is used in conjunction with the Job Safety Analysis (JSA)
to identify potential hazards in work practice with step by step task procedures that address
each task with control measures to create a Low level of risk.
Consequences
Description
Insignificant Minor Moderate Major Critical
Likelihood (No injuries) (Minor injury (Medical (Extensive (Death;
Description requiring treatment; injuries; loss toxic
basic First spillage of release of
Aid) contained but production) chemicals)
with outside
help)
Almost certain Medium Medium High Extreme Extreme

expected in most circumstances
Likely Low Medium High High Extreme

likely to occur in most circumstances
Possible Low Medium High High High

may occur at some time
Unlikely Low Low Medium Medium High

not likely to occur
Rare Low Low Low Low Medium

may occur, only in exceptional circumstances
Low If an incident were to occur, there would be little likelihood that an injury would result.
OK for now - record and review if any equipment/people/materials/work processes or
procedures change.
Medium If an incident were to occur, there would be some chance that an injury requiring First
Aid would result.
Control evaluation and monitoring should occur.
High If an incident were to occur, it would be likely that an injury requiring medical treatment
would result.
Control evaluation and monitoring should occur with Management.
Extreme If an incident were to occur,it would be likely that a permanent, debilitating injury or
death would result.
Immediate action reqiured - Senior Management to be notified.
Once you have identified the risk factor you move on the next step in the risk management
process which, once again, is best explained in the same Code of Practice.

Job Safety Analysis (JSA)

This JSA document shows the job tasks in a step by step assessment with the Risk Analysis
before at a “Medium” risk. Then with the recommended action and control measure applied,
we have Risk Analysis of a “Low”.
Generally the technique is applied to onsite job tasks as a precursor to a safe working
procedure, uses job observation and experience is the basis for identifying hazards and
controls measures.
© TAFE Queensland

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)
SDS are documents that provide critical information about hazardous chemicals. For
example, they include information on:
• the chemical’s identity and ingredients
• health and physical hazards
• safe handling and storage procedures
• emergency procedures
• disposal considerations.
SDS must provide information on the:
• Hazards of the chemical and how to handle it safely, including storage and disposal.
• Physical and chemical properties of the chemical, as well as potential health and
emergency response measures.
• Environmental effects of the chemical.
Weblink
The Safe Work Australia website provides more information on Safety Data Sheets:
https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sds
Example
You can see an example of a SDS by clicking the link below:

https://www.msdsonline.com/wp-
content/uploads/2017/10/class_3_acetone_sample_sds_us.pdf

Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS)
A SWMS under Section 299 of the WHS Regulation is only required for ‘High risk
construction work’. However in the construction industry of today, SWMS have become
mandatory safety procedure of protocol to minimize risk from the hierarchy of control down,
from the principle contractor (builder), to the subcontractor (employer), to the worker
(employee).
Below is an example of a SWMS.
Copied under Part VB, https://bit.ly/2tJTCSD, accessed 26/06/2018
Reading
To learn more about the SWMS, click the web link below and read Section 299 Safe work
method statement required for high risk construction work in the Work Health and
Safety Regulation 2011.
https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/view/html/inforce/2017-07-01/sl-2011-0240

Hazard Report Form
Hazard report forms are used to report and document a potential hazard and use as a
method of rectify any hazard as soon as possible to minimize risk to all in the workplace,
hazard report form must executed in the instance of the sighting.
Below is an example of a Hazard Report Form.
Copied under Part VB, https://bit.ly/2MV8FkW, accessed 26/06/2018

Construction materials
Our traditional construction materials are steel, concrete, wood and glass. All materials
require some form of handling and preparation before being placed in position and different
materials require different personal protective equipment (PPE) to suit safe handling
techniques.
© Shutterstock
Our traditional construction materials are steel, concrete, wood and glass. All materials
require some form of handling and preparation before being placed in position. Different
materials require different personal protective equipment (PPE) to suit safe handling
techniques. On a construction site, safe handling often requires a combination of control

measures.
Example
For example whilst the steel fixers in the picture are preparing a steel cage by
hand for a major foundation, its sheer size and weight means that it will require
mechanical handling in the form of cranes to place the cage in position.
PPE such as gloves, hard hats, safety glasses and high visibility clothing are all required to
complete this task safely.
Degradation
All materials can degrade due to lack of proper handling, storage or care. Degradation of
concrete can occur when the steel reinforcement corrodes. This will cause the steel to
expand and damage the concrete.
Concrete
© Shutterstock

Timber
Timber can be affected by decay and termites. Understanding timber species helps to
assess the strength of timber.
© Shutterstock
Strength grade combined with species provides us with the ability to assign a strength class.
In their article on Structural grading, Wood Solutions explain that in Australia, the two most
common methods of grading are visual stress grading and machine stress grading.
Visual stress grading
The traditional method of determining a stress grade is visual grading, whereby a trained
grader performs a visual inspection of each piece of timber produced. As grading rules
involve checking over 20 characteristics, the process is reliant on the grader’s skill.
© Shutterstock

Machine stress grading
Machine stress-grading measures the stiffness of a piece of timber by bending it, and
correlates the stiffness and strength to assign a stress grade. As the machine bends the
timber about its minor axis, qualified graders are needed to visually check the ends of the
timber after it passes through the machine.
© Shutterstock
Timber should be stored inside a well-ventilated area and it must be clean, dry and have
good air circulation. Remember, keep timber stored on a flat surface to prevent warping.
Other materials that can be considered include Glue Laminated Beams (Glulam)
© Shutterstock
GLULAM (glue laminated beams)
Glue Laminated Beams (Glulam) which is lighter to handle than the alternatives such as
steel. It is biodegradable and can be treated for termite and weather protection. Glulam is a
type of structural timber product comprising of number of layers of timber bonded together
with durable, moisture-resistant structural adhesives. Glulam provides the strength and

versatility of large wood members without relying on the old growth-dependent solid-sawn
timbers.
© Shutterstock
In terms of manual handling, Timber Engineering Europe found that Glulam is two-thirds the
weight of steel and one-sixth the weight of concrete, in addition the embodied energy to
produce it is six times less than the same suitable strength of steel. For more information
refer to resource section for the the Dindas Australia website.
Video
Watch the full video titled “Construction materials” – ask your teacher for the

Handling materials safely

A safe lifting technique on construction site requires you to size up the load and have a clear
pathway way to carry the load.
Solo
Stand close to the load, feet wide apart, keep your back straight as possible, tighten your
stomach muscles and lift with your legs.
© Shutterstock

Team
Don’t lift heavy loads and twist, away from the body (spine), or alone. To lift loads to a high
location and minimise risk of back injury always use a step ladder.
Both people should face and stand close to the load, keep feet wide apart, keep your backs
straight as possible, tighten your stomach muscles and both lift with their legs at the same
time.
© Shutterstock

Obtaining materials
© Shutterstock
Having just the right amount of materials on site is part of the project schedules which is
used to track materials and equipment for each task in the construction site.
This information is critical to the success of any project.
Material handling can include quoting on cost, purchasing, inventory, installation and
servicing.
© Shutterstock
Much depends on the job size and complexity. Large projects use Gantt charts to illustrate
the start and finish of activities to assist with material ordering and resources.

Environmental requirements
Environmental concerns
It is important to be aware of the types of environmental concerns that may impact on your
work activity and projects. These include impacts on: Land (plant and animals), noise
(generated by project activities), water (sources, use and contamination), air quality
(contaminants and emissions). Accordingly, the government has a framework of legislation
that companies must comply with to ensure the protection of Queensland’s environment,
land and water resources.
© Shutterstock
The Queensland Government conserves, protects and manages the state’s environment and
natural resources by administering a range of legislation, including: Environmental Protection
Act 1994, Water Act 2000, Vegetation Management Act 1999, Nature Conservation Act
1992, Forestry Act 1959. Environmental Protection Act 1994 (EP Act). The aim of the Act is
to protect Queensland’s environment while allowing for ecologically sustainable development
– that means allowing for development that improves the quality of life in a way that
maintains ecological processes.

Environment
The EP Act, Chapter 1, Part 3, Section 8 provides the following definition of for the
environment.
Environment includes;
(a) Ecosystems and their constituent parts, including people and communities; and
(b) All natural and physical resources; and
(c) The qualities and characteristics of locations, places and areas, however large or
small, that contribute to their biological diversity and integrity, intrinsic or attributed
scientific value or interest, amenity, harmony and sense of community; and
(d) The social, economic, aesthetic and cultural conditions that affect, or are affected by,
things mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (c).
You can download this legislation, including guidelines and factsheets from the
Department of Environment and Heritage Protection by visiting the links provided in
the following Useful Resources section.
Risk management
Examining the impact of risk is a standard practice associated with the cost and safety on
construction sites.
Risk classification assists manage and control the diverse problems, such as impacts of
vibration on the environment generated by construction activities that face the business on a
site specific level. This information assists to reduce the likelihood of occurrence of each risk
and the level of impact on the bottom line (profit).
© Shutterstock

© Shutterstock
Establishing good data and information is essential when planning and implementing
environmental strategies that may affect your project and when submitting documents such
as environmental authority applications or applying for a development permit under the
Sustainable Planning Act 2009 (Planning Act), to conduct particular work activities.
Consulting the local community is an excellent way of identifying solutions for conservation
that will benefit everyone. Rights of land holders must be respected at all times.
Requirements of cultural areas, recreation and conservation areas must be observed. Rules
are also in place to protect the general public, for example noise control.

Noise
The EP Act, Chapter 1, Part 3, Section 12 provides the following definition for noise:
Noise includes vibration of any frequency, whether emitted through air or another medium.
Chapter 8, Part 3B, Section 440R of the EP Act provides the following condition: Division 3,
Default noise standards. 440R Building work:
(1) A person must not carry out building work in a way that makes an audible noise;
(a) On a business day or Saturday, before 6.30a.m. Or after 6.30pm; or
(b) On any other day, at any time.
(2) The reference in subsection (1) to a person carrying out building work;
(a) Includes a person carrying out building work under an owner-builder permit;
and
(b) Otherwise does not include a person carrying out building work at premises
used by the person only for residential purposes.
Video
Watch the full video titled “Environmental concerns” – ask your teacher for the

Useful resources
Web link
• Queensland Government Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011

http://bit.ly/2hzt4N0
• Worksafe – Managing Risks: PPE

http://bit.ly/2hzphPz
• Hilti Technical Library

http://bit.ly/2eIWx5W
• Safe Work Australia – Guide to Scaffold Inspection and Maintenance

http://bit.ly/2hzaMM8
• Workcover Queensland - Injury Cost Calculator

http://bit.ly/1IdTQPs
• WHS Scaffolding Code of Practice 2009

http://bit.ly/2hz6swd
• ISO 14001 Environmental Management System – Organisation Self-

assessment
http://bit.ly/2h3qEFp
• Plant Isolation, Safety Tag and Lockout Procedures

http://bit.ly/2hIVmb2
• Structural Grading (Wood Solutions)

http://bit.ly/2h3ncuM
• Glue Laminated Beams (Dindas)

http://bit.ly/2hQZwJW
• Glue Laminated Timber (Wikipedia)

http://bit.ly/2gDUXBC
• No sprains, big gains (WorkCover QLD)

http://bit.ly/2hza4OQ

• Department of Environment and Heritage Protection

http://bit.ly/1sOAhLk
• Environmental Protection Act 1994

http://bit.ly/2hwGlsk
• Queensland government legislation

http://bit.ly/2hoaBVG

Learning activity - prepare for work
Activity 1
Attempt the following questions (answers are at the back of this resource).
Question 1
What are some of the employee responsibilities under the WHS Act and
regulations?
Select three (3) corect responses.
 Develop safe operating procedures
 Not misuse or damage PPE
 Wear/ use PPE provided
 Inform the PCBU if PPE is damaged or defective
Question 2
Select three (3) correct responses.
 Performance
 Colour
 Hourly cost
 Cost of servicing
Question 3
A yellow and black safety tag with a caution symbol indicates:
Select one (1) correct response.
 Out of service
 Hazard ahead
 Personal danger
 All of the above

Question 4
What are good storage conditions for materials such as timber?
 Clean
 Dry
 Well ventilated
 Humid
Question 5
Watch the video by WorkCover Queensland about reducing the risk of manual
task injuries in the workplace.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=932o4KLDliI
Select the five (5) risk factors that are identified in the video?
 Asbestos
 Awkward and static postures
 Cross contamination
 Duration
 Electrocution
 Forceful Exertions
 Poisoning
 Repetition
 Tinnitus
 Vibration

Question 6
In Queensland the supporting ecologically sustainable development is the object
of which Act?
 Work Health and Safety Act 2011
 Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011
 Environmental Protection Act 1994
 Criminal Organisation Act 2009
Question 7
Environmental protection is a responsibility of which Queensland government
department?
 Agriculture and Fisheries
 Environment and Heritage Protection
 Education and Training
 Premier and Cabinet

Introduction to flooring
Introduction: flooring materials

Before we begin to explore flooring system installation, we will begin with some of the basic
knowledge required.
Most homes in Queensland have a concrete slab
floor. Other flooring systems elevate the floor
above the ground and are called a ‘sub-floor
system’ and these are the systems we will learn
about in this unit.
Sub-floor systems may be made from traditional
timber methods, or they could be steel systems
engineered by a manufacturer, and supplied to the
site for assembly.
We will concentrate on the traditional timber system,
© Shutterstock
since steel systems follow the same principals.
Builders must heavily rely on the information given in the Australian Standard 1684 -2010
Residential timber-framed construction, when designing and installing flooring systems.
We will concentrate on Part 2 of this standard which is for non-cyclonic areas of Australia,
while Part 3 is used for cyclone areas.

Terminology
AS 1684.2 gives standardised names for framing members, it would be useful for you to
learn them, though you may hear other names used from time to time.
Sub-floor Framing describes the framework members below the floor level, such as Joists
and Bearers. Conventional sub-floor framing consists of elements in the diagram below.
© Shutterstock, © TAFE Queensland
Fitted floor
Where the flooring (usually strip flooring boards) is laid after the walls are stood and the
house is at lock-up stage. The walls sit directly on the joists, and floor boards are cut
between the walls.
Platform floor
Where the flooring (usually sheet flooring) is fixed before the walls are stood, forming a
platform to work on while standing the walls.

Loadbearing wall
A wall that supports roof and perhaps other loads.
Ant capping
An impenetrable layer (usually steel) placed on top of piers and brick walls to prevent
termites from entering the building undetected. The steel barrier forces termites to build mud
trails around the ant-cap to access the timber above. Their presence can then be detected.
Strutting
Timber noggins that prevent joists from rolling over. See AS 1684.2 under ‘deep joists’ for
details.
Bearers
The lowest timber member of the sub-floor. The bearer carries the weight of the entire house
and its contents. Bearer size and spacing is prescribed in the AS 1684.2
Floor joists
Are fixed above the bearers and the floor is fixed to them. Modern floor joists are often made
of engineered timber such as LVL, Glulam and “I Beam” Joists. Their size and spacing is
prescribed in the As 1684.2 also.
Piers
Could be brick, concrete, steel or even timber stumps. The tops of piers or posts should be
calculated to bring the floor level to the required height (RL or Relative Level) indicated on
the plans.
Footings
Reinforced concrete footings support the weight of the building. They could be a strip footing
that typically supports brickwork walls around the perimeter of the building, or isolated pad
footings that support piers.
Foundation
The ground under the footing, it takes the weight of the building. This is a poured concrete
foundation wall

Measurement of sub-floor members

Centres: The centreline to centreline measurement between members.
Spacing: A pre-defined, or set, spacing of members e.g. 450 centres. It can be measured
‘centre to centre’, or ‘into over’.
Span: The distance between the edges of supports under a member, not the centre to centre
measurement.
© TAFE Queensland
Note
For a full list of members and definitions see AS 1684.2 Section 2.

Flooring types
Particle board sheets
Are made from pine particles that have been bonded together to form a sheet. Common
products are:
• STRUCTAflor® Yellowtongue® 3600 x 900 x

19mm
• Redtongue® is 22mm thick
• Bluetongue® 25mm thick.

These products have a groove in both long edges with
a plastic “tongue” inserted in one edge so they can be
fitted together to form a tight joint. They are fastened
with screws or nails and construction grade
adhesives.
Particle board sheets are relatively cheap, long

lasting and durable, but can swell if continually wet. Carter Holt Harvey Wood products
They should only be used for internal rooms. Australia
Copied under Part VB, http://bit.ly/2gGfn2p,
Accessed 13 Jun 2016
Plywood sheets
Are made from pine veneers that are thin shavings

from a rotating pine log. The veneers are glued
together with their grains at right angles to form a
stronger product.
Plywood flooring such as PLYfloor® is strong, durable,
and easy to work with. It is treated against fungal
attacks and termites and uses a marine structural
bond adhesive. Sheets are tongue and groove and
vary in size e.g. PLYfloor®F11 is 2400 x 1200 x 21mm
thick. Hebel Power Floor sheets
They are best suited to internal floors.

CFC sheets
Compressed Fibrous Cement sheets (CFC) are a

highly durable structural flooring sheet alternative to
pouring a concrete slab, and are particularly popular
for use in wet area floors, and external decks. The
sheets are screwed and glued directly to the timber
or steel Floor Joists, forming a moisture-resistant
base for laying ceramic tiles.
CFC sheets are resistant to damage from termites,
rot and fire. A common size is 1800 x 900 x 18mm Copied under Part VB, Architecture &
with a mass of 32kg /m². Design, http://bit.ly/2ggouTE,
Tongue & groove boards
As an alternative to the sheet flooring types above, Tongue and Groove floor boards are an
example of strip flooring. Boards may be hardwood or softwood depending on the jobs
requirements.
The tongue on one board fits into the groove on the next board creating a flush, tight joint.
Boards are fixed directly to the joists, or through a platform floor into the joists. As a flooring
material they are best suited to internal rooms of the house.
When affected by moisture the boards tend
to expand and swell, causing them to rise
up off the joists. It is advisable to lay the
boards out on the joists for up to two
weeks before installing them, this allows
their moisture content (and width) to
stabilise before fixing.
The tongue and groove may extend to the
ends of the boards (end-matched) so they
can also be joined between joists. A
common size is 86 x 19mm with random
lengths supplied in a bundle.
© Shutterstock

Example
To see examples of plain end and end-matched boards, see page 9 of the
following resource:
• Wood Solutions Design Guide

http://bit.ly/2hTwxc2
Decking
Decking boards are another

form of strip flooring. They are
highly suited to external decks
and walkways. The boards
should be from a naturally
durable species of timber such
as Australian hardwood.
Decking boards made from
engineered products are also
available.
Boards are fixed to joists with
nails or screws, with a space
between them to help prevent
rotting. Some decking boards
have a ribbed side that allows air © Shutterstock
between the ribs and joist to also
reduce rot.

Learning activity: introduction to flooring
Activity 2
Question 1
What Australian Standard covers residential Timber-frame Construction?
 AS1648 – 2001
 AS1468 – 2001
 AS1684 – 2010
 AS1468 – 2010
Question 2
Ant capping is installed at sub-floor level to?
 Stop ants entering the building
 Stop termites entering the building
 Allow termites to be detected entering the building
 Allow termites access to the building
Question 3
The main purpose of a bearer is to?
 Carry and distribute the weight of the building
 Support the Flooring material
 Provide something to nail the flooring to
 Provide something to nail the strutting to

Question 4
© TAFE Queensland
Which drawing above shows a fitted floor?

 Drawing 1
 Drawing 2
 Neither drawing
 Both drawings
Question 5
An example of strip flooring would be?
 Hardwood Decking
 Tongue and Groove boards
 End-matched Tongue and Groove boards
 All the above

Engineer designed products
Introduction: engineer designed timber

products
Engineer designed timber products along with plantation timber
are common on almost all construction sites. These construction
materials help save natural resources as they reduce the need to
harvest native timbers for the purpose of wall, floor, and roof
framing.
© Shutterstock
Glue laminated timber

Glued laminated timber is composed of several layers of timber bonded together with
durable, moisture-resistant adhesives. By laminating several smaller pieces of timber, a
single large, strong, structural member is manufactured from smaller pieces. Curved and
arched shaped products can also be produced. Span table for various glue laminated timber
products can be sourced from manufacturers. There are a variety of products that
incorporate glue laminated timber sections and we will look at their characteristics, uses and
advantages.
LVL – Laminated Veneer Lumber
Consists of multiple layers of timber veneers glued

together with the grain running along the length of the
LVL.
Used for lintels, beams, rim boards, floor joists, roof
members.
Advantages
• Stronger, straighter and more uniform than solid

timber.
• Available in long lengths. © TAFE Queensland

I joist
I joist have two main parts, the web and the flange. The web is constructed of either LVL
(laminated veneer lumber) or OSB (oriented strand board).
OSB consists of relatively small pieces of wood chips
that are glued and pressed together to form a single
piece. The small timber pieces are random in grain
direction which give the OSB its strength.
The flange can either be constructed of laminated
veneers or solid timber that is finger jointed together. It
has a groove running along its length to length where
the web is fitted. Used for floor joists and rafters.
Advantages © TAFE Queensland
• Straighter and more uniform than solid timber.
• Available in long lengths.
• Light to work with.
• Strong compared to weight and wood mass.
• Little or no shrinkage.
Laminated beams (Glulam)
Characteristics – Short lengths of solid timber glued on

the flat with a curvature over the length of the beam to
accommodate deflection when loaded.
Uses – Roof and floor beams. Typically found over
garages.
Advantages
• Stronger and straighter than solid timber of the

same sectional size.
• Less shrinkage © TAFE Queensland
• Curved configuration can be manufactured

Adhesives
Formaldehyde adhesives are the most common glues used in Australia in the production of
glue laminated timber. Formaldehyde has the potential to cause irritations in areas of the
body such as eyes, throat, nose and skin.
Safety
The long term effects of working with formaldehyde are less known than these
short term effects. It is believed however, that prolonged exposure may have the
potential to cause cancer. It is therefore recommended that PPE be worn when
working with products that contain formaldehyde particularly products such as
medium density fibre-board (MDF). Safety Data sheets should be referred to.
Truss systems
Engineer designed truss systems for roof and floor framing are common on domestic building
sites. These systems provide alternatives to traditional construction methods and materials.
Posi-struts
Posi-struts are parallel chorded trusses with a metal web supporting two parallel pieces of
timber.
These are used for floor joists.
Advantages
• Long straight lengths can be produced.
• Minimal or no shrinkage
• Easy access for plumbing, electrical and

other services
• Lighter than solid timber
• Additional width for flooring fixing

© TAFE Queensland

Fire rated construction
Introduction
This information will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist in the
establishment of compliance with the Building Code of Australia fire safety provisions.
Note
This learning resource will assist you (the learner) as you progress through the
Fire rated construction resource. This resource is designed to be self-directed for
the learner.
If you are having difficulties with the online program, contact your teacher for
further assistance.
The Building Code of Australia (BCA) classifies buildings

into classes. Building classes may have varying fire
protection requirements. Multi-residential buildings for
example are designed to have Fire Compartments that:
• Stop the spread of fire
• Allow occupants to escape to an unaffected area
• Allow fire-fighters to attack the source of the blaze.
© Shutterstock
Fire Rated construction techniques are designed to stop the
spreading of fire from one compartment to the next. A compartment can be a room, a series
of rooms, a vertical shaft, an entire floor, or any other area specified in the (BCA). Fire Exit
paths are an essential lifeline to safety. These paths must protect the occupants and building
for a minimum of two hours.

There are two types of fire control measures, passive and active.
Passive control
Construction techniques and materials to control fire spread

Passive fire control refers to protective measures that are put in place to resist or slow down
the spread of fire.
Passive fire control measures are designed to contain fires to compartments or dwellings,
and allow fire services to move safely through a building so as to extinguish a fire. This type
of protection is often installed during construction and will involve the use of materials such
as:
• fire rated plasterboard
• fibre cement sheeting
• fire rated doors
• fire rated windows

© Shutterstock
• reinforced concrete
• brickwork.
Active control
Safety alert systems and equipment used to extinguish fire

Active fire control refers to protective measures that are put place to extinguish a fire, extract
smoke, or alert property residence or fire services that a fire has started.
Active fire control measures include:
• fire alarms
• Smoke and heat extraction systems
• smoke release vents
• extinguishers
• sprinkler systems
• fire curtains
• fire shutters.
© Shutterstock

Fire Resistance Level (FRL)

FRL is an abbreviation for Fire Resistance Level. This is the formal way of assessing fire
protection in buildings. It may sometimes be referred to as the fire rating.
When discussing the FRL of an object, it will be referred to with a series of three numbers
that represent the nominal grading period in minutes. This is determined by subjecting a
specimen to a fire test as outlined in AS 1530.4.
These numbers represent in order, the objects’ structural:
• adequacy,
• integrity and
• insulation ratings.
Adequacy Integrity Insulation
Length of protection against Strength of material against Length of protection against

fire fire heat
The length of time in The length of time in The length of time in

minutes before the test minutes before cracks or minutes before temperature
specimen fails under load. openings appear that permit of the unexposed side of
the escape of hot gases or specimen rises above safe
flames. limits. (determined in
AS1530.4)
Let’s look at an example.

A typical “2 hour fire door” has a FRL of -/120/30
- 120 30
(Adequacy) (Integrity) (Insulation)
The door has no structural There is 120mins before There is 30mins until there
adequacy (not load bearing) cracks appear in the door is extreme temperatures on
that will allow hot gasses or the side of the door not
fumes to escape exposed to fire

Structural timber and steel

Timber and steel sections are commonly used as
structural members in wall, floor and roof
construction. They may be concealed from or
exposed to the potential effects of fire and will react
differently when exposed to fire.
Timber has the potential to combust and burn. Fire
rated materials such as fire rated plasterboard are
often used to protect timber framing and stop the
spread of fire to adjacent properties. © Shutterstock
Steel does not burn like timber but when exposed to the extreme heat from fire it can warp
and twist losing much of its strength. Structural steel components such as beams and
columns have the potential to fail under extreme temperatures and may require fire
protection. This can be achieved by using fire proofing sprays, intumescent paints, and
enclosing steel sections with fire-rated sheet or board materials.
Steel ceiling battens are often used in conjunction with both timber and steel trussed roofs.
The installation of battens may be required when truss spacing’s exceed the maximum
ceiling lining span, typically 600mm. Steel battens and components are also used in
suspended ceiling systems. These ceiling systems may have to be fire rated to protect
services mounted above the ceiling as well as structural components.
Fire walls
Fire walls are required in both commercial and domestic multi-dwelling buildings. They
provide a separation wall between adjoining shops and dwellings to stop the spread of fire.
These walls can be constructed from a wide range of building products including concrete
and masonry, lightweight blocks, proprietary wall types and drywall or fire rated plasterboard.
They need to extend though the building to the roofline to resist the spread of fire from one
unit (compartment) to another as shown in the following diagram.

Copied under Part VB, http://bit.ly/2giW4bW,

Fire rated plasterboard is commonly used in domestic multi-dwelling construction. Fire rated
plasterboard will have varying FRL ratings depending on the thickness of the sheet and the
number of sheets that are installed. E.g. Sheets doubled up will have a higher fire resistance
level.

Bushfire Attack Level (BAL)

In 2009, Queensland adopted the
Australian Standard for the Construction
of Buildings in Bushfire-prone Areas is
AS 3959 (2009). The objective of this
Standard is to improve the construction
design of buildings in a bushfire-prone
area so as to withstand attacks from
bushfires and to minimize the amount of
damage to building from the effects of a
bushfire.
Australian Standards AS 3959 applies to
all new buildings constructed in bushfire-
prone areas and includes: © Shutterstock
• New homes or outbuildings of any construction type such as brick veneer, mud brick
and timber.
• Rebuilding of homes or outbuildings.
• Repairs to part of a building or outbuilding such as garage, shed or fireplace.
• Additions to home and outbuildings within six metres of a dwelling.
Ember attack
Hot embers are windborne debris from a fire that can start up small spot fires if left
unchecked or not extinguished.
Radiant heat
Heat generated from a fire that can heat fuels until they combust or ignite and continue to
burn.
Direct flame contact
When flames ignite fuels in front of the fire and continue to burn.
There are six Bushfire Attack Levels (BALs): Low, 12.5, 19, 29, 40 and FZ (Flame Zone).

© Shutterstock, ©TAFE Queensland
BAL-LOW There is sufficient risk to warrant specific construction

requirements. (No construction requirements, refer to AS3959
section 4)
BAL-12.5 Ember attack. The possibility of ember attack has been identified
(Refer to AS3959 section 3 and 5)
BAL-19 Increasing levels of ember attack and burning debris ignited by

windborne embers together with increasing heat flux. (Refer to
AS3959 section 3 and 6)

windborne embers together with increasing heat flux. (Refer to
AS3959 section 3 and 7)

windborne embers together with increasing heat flux with the
increased likelihood of exposure to flames. (Refer to AS3959
section 3 and 8)
BAL-FZ (Flame Direct exposure to flames from fire front in addition to heat flux and
Zone) ember attack. (Refer to AS3959 section 3 and 9)
In achieving a specified BAL rating the following will need to be considered:

• Floor constructed of concrete.
• Exterior walls, roof, veranda or deck constructed from non-combustible materials.
• Sealed wall and roof joints to guard against ember attacks.
• Shutters made from aluminium (or other non-combustible material).
• Toughened glass windows.
• Fire-resistant-timber door frames, with a weather strip at the base.
• Metal (rather than plastic) external trimmings such as vents, guttering and downpipes.
Check with your local council and Fire Authorities to assess the BAL for a particular site.
Once the BAL has been determined you can start planning your building. The BAL will affect
the design criteria such as the subfloor, external wall cladding, windows, external doors,
screens for windows and doors, roofs and decks etc.

Insulation
Insulation acts as a barrier to heat loss and heat gain and can be installed in roofs, ceilings,
walls and floors. The purpose of insulation is to help keep a house warm in winter and cool in
summer, as well as keeping energy costs down.
Insulation in ceiling spaces is particularly important as a lot of heat is transferred through the
ceiling and roof. Insulation is best installed during construction, particularly in walls and floors
as these areas are almost impossible to get to later. Ceiling and roof insulation is easier to
install after construction.
Relevant Australian Standards and the Building Code of Australia (BCA) govern the
requirements for the installation of insulating materials. This includes ensuring that insulation
meets the minimum R-Value requirements as well as identifying appropriate clearances
around electrical wires and appliances. The R value is a materials ability to prevent heat
leaking in or out.
There are two main types of insulation, bulk insulation and reflective insulation:
Bulk
A barrier to heat flow, examples are:
• Rock wool batts
• Glass wool batts
• Loose fill cellulose
• Polystyrene panels
• Polyester matting © Shutterstock
Reflective
Used to deflect heat, examples are:
• Sarking
• Foil faced blankets and boards
• Multi-cell foil products (several layers of reflective foil

separated by air gaps)
© Shutterstock

Sub-floor framing
Introduction
In this topic we will explore the installation of posts, stumps
and piers by using the building set out lines installed on the
profiles. We will consult plans and specifications to ensure the
floor level is at the correct height. Some foundation plans will
detail the position of the posts, bearers, and joists, however;
more often than not this will be left to the builder.
Information regarding span and spacing, for example, is found
in AS 1684 regarding bearer load widths. Information needed
to determine the correct size of members, their spans and
spacing and calculation of their quantities, will need to be
sourced from AS 1684 before the set out begins.
The following Case Study is an example of this process, using
a simple Gazebo.
This is to help you complete flooring project calculations, and
© Shutterstock
to assist in pricing and purchasing timber where solid timber
substructures are used. The Case Study covers:
• Roof load widths
• Bearer span
• Floor joist quantities
• Decking board quantities
• Material costing
• AS 1684 span tables

Case study: gazebo project
Case study
Flooring system calculations
Let’s look at an example for calculating the sub structure and flooring
requirements for the construction of a gazebo, using the plan, specifications, and
AS1684.2 span tables.
Wind classification N1/N2
Bearer stress grade MGP12-H3
Joist stress grade MGP12-H3
Joists spacing 450mm centres maximum
Timber posts Treated pine 90 mm x 90mm MGP12-H3
Pitched roof 25° roof pitch, 350mm eave width
Pier footings 350mm (W) x 450mm (D) Concrete 20 MPA
Decking select grade Kwila, section size 90mm x 19mm

- H3
Finished deck height RL 10 600
Study this information carefully in order to complete the Materials

Quantities Calculations Assignment later.

© TAFE Queensland
We will be referring to Australian Standards (AS) 1684 span tables. There is

certain terminology that needs to be understood when using span tables.
Single and continuous spans for bearers and joists

Bearers and joists can either be single span or continuous span. Single span
bearers and joists will span between two supports only. Continuous span bearers
and joists span over more than two supports. Because continuous span bearers
and joists are better supported they tend to be smaller in sectional size than that
of single span systems when spanning the same distance.

Single span
© TAFE Queensland
Continuous span
© TAFE Queensland
It is possible to have different sectional sized bearers or joists on the same

project if there is a combination of single and continuous span systems. In these
circumstances most builders will opt to use single span dimensions even on
continuous spans. This eliminates the need to have varying pier heights or to
check or pack back bearers and joists to achieve a uniform floor height if timber
depths vary.
Reading
Laws, A., (2013). Site Establishment Formwork and Framing. (2nd ed.). Pearson
Australia.

1. Load width calculations
Load widths
Load widths are calculated to help determine the load that is placed on various structural
members. In simple terms, there is likelihood that the sectional size of timber will increases
as load widths increase.
Reading
Refer to the Australian Standards AS 1684.2 or AS 1684.3 section 2.6 for more
definitions.
Step 1 - calculate roof load width
A roof load width is factored into bearer calculations when roof loads are transferred to
bearers.
Ref: AS1684.2 section 2.6.2
Calculation Formula
In this example the roof load is transferred The bearers themselves are not taking any
to 90mm x 90mm posts that are supported roof loads therefore a roof load width does
on concrete pier footings not apply

Step 2 - calculate Floor Load Width (FLW)
The FLW is used to determine the load that is transferred to supporting bearers and is used
as an input to bearer span tables.
Ref: AS1684.2 section 2.6.2
© TAFE Queensland
Calculation Formula
To calculate the floor load width, you need Bearer A

to identify the width of the floor and
= 4000mm / 2
determine the loading on each bearer. The
total floor width is 4000mm which is = 2000mm
supported evenly on two bearers. Bearer B
= 4000mm / 2
= 2000mm

2. Bearer calculations
Step 1 - calculate bearer span
You need to determine if the bearers are

single or continuous span. In this example, the
bearers span between two supports only and
are considered single span bearers.
You need to determine how far the bearers
span between supports.
© TAFE Queensland
Calculation Formula
The bearers are finished 45mm past = 4000mm – 45mm – 90mm – 45mm – 90mm
the posts. (This is done to minimise the
= 3730mm
amount that the bearer is checked into
the 90mm x 90mm post which will
weaken if cut too deep, refer also to the
previous elevation drawing)
To get the bearer span we need to take
45mm (distance past the post) + 90mm
(post) = 135mm, from both ends to give
us the distance between the posts.

Step 2 - determine bearer sectional size
Refer to the AS 1684.2 N1/N2 Supplement 5-2010 MGP12 Table 5 Floor bearers –
Supporting floor load only span table to determine the bearer sectional size.
When using span tables always round up to the next load width, spacing, span, or
sectional size.
Using the following information:
• Bearers not supporting roof loads
• Wind classification N2
• Stress grade MGP12
• Floor load width is 2000mmm
• Span type is single

Calculation
Floor Load Width (mm)
1200 1800 2400 3600 4800
Maximum Bearer Span (mm)
Size Span C'lever Span C'lever Span C'lever Span C'lever Span C'lever
DxB
(mm)
2/90x35 1800 500 1500 400 1400 400 1200 300 1100 1900
2/90x45 1900 500 1700 500 1500 400 1300 300 1200 2200
2/120x35 2400 700 2100 600 1900 500 1600 400 1400 2900
2/120x45 2600 700 2200 600 2000 600 1700 500 1600 3300
2/140x35 2800 800 2400 700 2200 600 1900 500 1700 4600
2/140x45 3000 900 2600 700 2400 700 2000 600 1800 5300
2/170x35 3400 1000 2900 800 2600 700 2300 600 2000 5900
2/170x45 3600 1000 3200 950 2900 800 2500 750 2200 6200
2/190x35 3700 1100 3300 900 3000 900 2600 700 2300 6700
2/190x45 3900 1100 3600 1050 3200 900 2800 800 2500 7000
2/240x35 4400 1300 4000 1200 3700 1100 3200 900 2800 7200
2/240x45 4700 1400 4200 1200 3900 1100 3500 1050 3100 7200
2/290x35 5100 1500 4600 1300 4300 1200 3700 1100 3200
2/290x45 5400 1600 4900 1400 4500 1300 4100 1200 3600

Instructions
1. Bearer span is 3730mm (round it up to 3900mm)
2. The floor load width for this project has been calculated at 2000mm which needs to
be rounded up to 2400mm for use in the span table.
Answer: The corresponding sectional timber size for this span is 2/240mm x 45mm bearers.
Step 3 - calculate bearer quantities
The structure is 4000mm long and has two rows of bearers that are supported by 90mm x
90mm posts.
Calculation Formula
When ordering timber, you have to round up to 2 bearers x 4200 mm long would have
the nearest orderable 300mm increment. For a to be ordered.
required length of 4000mm a 4200mm length
would be ordered.
Step 4 - calculate bearer price
Calculation Formula
To price the bearers, we need to multiply the cost = (4 x 4.2m) =16.8m

of the bearers by the total linear metres of bearer
= 16.8m x $15
material required.
= $252.00
If the price per lineal metre of 240mm x 35mm
MGP 12 is $15.00 and we require 4 lengths
at 4.2m (4200mm), the bearer can now be
ordered and costed.
Note: The total orderable amount of bearer is
double that of bearer lengths due to laminating of
bearers (2 lengths side by side).

3. Floor joist calculations
Step 1 - calculate floor joist span
You need to determine if the floor joists are single or continuous span. In this example, the
floor joists are spaning between two supports only and are considered to be single span floor
joists
You need to determine the joist span which is the distance that the joists span between
bearers.
Calculation Formula
The overall building width is 4000m. The = 4000mm – 90mm – 90mm

bearer sectional size is 2/240mm x 45mm.
= 3820mm
The span of the floor joists is measured
from the inside of the bearer therefore two
bearer widths (90mm) need to be deducted
from the total width (4000mm).
Step 2 - determine floor joist sectional size
Refer to the AS 1684.2 N1/N2 Supplement 5-2010 MGP12 Table 6 Floor joists – May
support loadbearing walls perpendicular to joists span table to determine the floor joist
sectional size. When using span tables always round up to the next load width, spacing,
span, or sectional size.
• Wind classification N2
• Stress grade MGP12

Calculation
Roof Load Width (mm)
0 1500 4500 7500 0 1500 4500 7500
Maximum Floor Joist Span (mm)
Sheet roof
Single Span Continuous Span
Size DxB (mm) Joist spacing 450mm
70x35 1000 NS NS NS 1400 1300 NS NS
70x45 1300 1200 NS NS 1500 1500 1300 1000
90x35 1600 1600 1300 1000 1800 1800 1700 1400
90x45 1700 1700 1500 1300 2000 2000 1900 1500
120x35 2200 2200 1900 1700 2600 2600 2500 2100
120x45 2400 2400 2200 1900 2800 2800 2700 2300
140x35 2600 2600 2400 2100 3100 3100 3000 2600
140x45 2800 2800 2600 2300 3400 3400 3300 2900
170x35 3200 3200 3000 2600 3900 3900 3800 3300
170x45 3500 3500 3300 2900 4300 4300 4200 3700
190x35 3600 3600 3400 3100 4400 4400 4400 3800
190x45 4000 4000 3700 3400 4900 4900 4700 4300
240x35 4800 4800 4500 4100 5500 5500 5400 5000
240x45 5100 5100 4800 4500 5900 5900 5800 5300
290x45 5900 5900 5500 5200 6800 6800 6700 6300
1. Roof load width is 0

2. Maximum joist centre spacing is 450mm
3. Single span 3820mm (round up to 4000mm)
Answer: A floor joist with a sectional size of 190mm x 45mm will be required

Step 3 - calculate spacings
Calculation Formula
When estimating it is acceptable to divide = 4000mm ÷ 450mm

the building length (4000mm) by the joist
= 8.88 spacing’s
spacing (450mm) as this will generally give
you an accurate number of spacing. Round = 9 spacing’s (rounded up)
up to 9 rows because if we round down our =9+1
maximum spacing of 450mm will be
= 10 rows of joists
exceeded
=4000mm – 45mm) ÷ 450mm = 8.78
One joist always has to be added onto the
spacing amount. =9+1
For greater accuracy you can work to your

joist set-out. (centres) To do this you need
to deduct the one joist width from the
building width before dividing by the joist
spacing.
Step 4 - calculate floor joist length
Calculation Formula
The floor joists run the width of the building = 4000mm (round up to 4200mm)
which is 4000mm and need to be rounded
to 4200mm as 4200mm is the next
orderable timber length.

Step 5 - calculate floor joist quantities
Calculation Formula
If the price per lineal metre of 1/190mm x = (10 x 4.2m) x $12

45mm mgp12 is $12.00 and we
= 42m x $12
require 10 lengths at 4.2m (4200mm), the
floor joists can now be ordered and costed. = $504.00

4. Decking board calculations
Method 1
We will look at two different methods that can be used for calculating strip flooring; the
method used is up to your personal preference.
Note
This calculation has been worked to the floor dimensions. You may be required
to add some extra to the width of the floor when calculating decking boards. This
would be on occasions where decking boards are finished past the line of
bearers and joists.
Step 1 – calculate floor joist quantities
• Joists are at 450mm centres.
• Select grade Kwila
• Section size: 90mm x 19mm
Calculation Formula
When working out quantities based on = 4000mm x 4000mm

square metres, ensure that all dimensions
= 4m x 4m
are converted from millimetres to metres
prior to commencing. = 16m2

Step 2 – calculate flooring boarding quantities
Calculation Formula
Divide the total square metres of the floor = 16m2 / (900mm + 4mm)
(16m2) by the width of the floor board
= 16m2/ .094m
(90mm) plus gap between boards (4mm) to
get the total lineal metres of flooring. = 170.21m
Step 3 – include wastage quantities
Calculation Formula
Add 10% (1.1) for waste and then round up = 170.21m x 1.1
to the nearest lineal metre
= 187.23m (round up to 188m)
Step 4 – calculate total cost of flooring
Calculation Formula
If the price per lineal metre of 90mm x 19mm = 188m x $4.50 per m
select grade Kwila is $4.50 and we
= $846.00
require 188m the strip floor can now be ordered
and costed.
To get the total cost of the flooring, multiply the
total lineal metres of flooring (including waste)
by the cost per lineal metre

Method 2
Step 1 – calculate flooring boarding rows
Calculation Formula
When working out quantities based on square = 4000mm / (900mm + 4mm)

meters, ensure that all dimensions are
= 4m / .094m
converted from millimetres to metres prior to
commencing. = 42.56 rows
Divide the width of the building (4000mm) by the

width of the floor board (90mm) plus gap
between boards (4mm) to get the number of
rows of board required.
Step 2 – calculate flooring boarding quantities
Calculation Formula
Multiply the number of rows of boards by = 42.56 x 4m

the length of the building.
= 170.21m
Step 3 – include wastage quantities
Calculation Formula
Add 10% (1.1) for waste and then round up = 170.21m x 1.1
to the nearest lineal metre.
= 187.23lm (round up to 188m)

Step 4 – calculate total cost of flooring
Calculation Formula
If the price per lineal metre of 90mm x 19mm = 188m x $4.50 per m
select grade Kwila is $4.50and we
= $846.00
require 188m the strip floor can now be ordered
and costed.
To get the total cost of the flooring, multiply the
total lineal metres of flooring (including waste)
by the cost per lineal metre.

5. Setting out sub floor
Step 1 - position the post holes
Having first consulted the Plans, Specifications and AS1684, the

steps involved to mark out timber or steel post holes might
include the below.
© Shutterstock
1. Use the foundation plan
Use Foundation Plan or your own calculations, to

decide the bearer row spacing (North/South).
Centreline of bearer becomes centre of the post, and its
pad footing. (Keep in mind the position of any load-
bearing walls or point loads that may require moving a
bearer row slightly to one side. Generally speaking,
trussed roofs have only two load-bearing walls
supporting roof loads).
© TAFE Queensland
2. Mark bearer spacing
Mark bearer spacing centrelines on the profiles, and pull stringlines.

Where the stringlines intersect, mark the ground with a spray paint
dot (this is centre of the post and centre of hole). It is common
practice to use a continual paint line to mark the outside (only) of a
continuous strip footing.
© TAFE Queensland
3. Excavate holes
Remove the stringlines and use the paint dots to excavate for
the footings.

© TAFE Queensland
Tip
• Consult footing detail plans to determine the depth of the footing.
• If the piers are brickwork, subtract the depth of flooring, floor joists and
bearers from the Finished Floor Level (FFL) to calculate the height for the
top of the brick piers. Then mark this out along with brick courses on
a brick pier gauge rod to determine an exact height for the top and
bottom of the pad footing. This will achieve the correct top of pier height,
and avoid time and money cutting bricks.
• Reference: AS 1684 – 2010, Section 3 Substructure should be consulted

for detailed information regarding this process.
Step 2 - Install the posts
Having first consulted the Plans,

Specifications, and AS1684, the
steps involved in installing
timber, steel or concrete posts
might include:
1. Checking the Foundation
or Engineering plans to
determine the method of
embedding or fixing the
stump to the footing.
2. Setting stringlines to
indicate the edge of the
posts.
© TAFE Queensland

For brick piers
For brick piers, pour and screed concrete to the

correct depth of the pad or strip footings.
Brick pier
© TAFE Queensland
When embedding posts
When embedding timber, steel, or concrete posts, it is

advisable to pour about 200mm first for a row of posts;
then pour the rest as you stand each post with a spirit
level and stringline as a guide.
Embedded steel post

© TAFE Queensland

Bracing tall piers
Tall piers may need to be braced for plumb. Re-check all piers for plumb before the concrete
sets.
© TAFE Queensland

Tip
• Brickwork piers and dwarf walls, are laid to height by the bricklayer, be
sure the pad height works brickwork. Employ the Automatic or Laser
level, or height pegs, to check footing heights.
• Strictly follow engineering details regarding footing depth, post fixing

methods and bracing to avoid footing failure.
• Leave timber posts higher than needed and cut to height later.
• Steel posts may be capped and welded to prevent termite attack, they
must be carefully positioned for height.
© TAFE Queensland

Activity 3
Put the below steps into the correct order by numbering them (answers are at the
back of this resource).
Steps to take Correct order
Dig the holes ______________
Re-check the posts for plumb and height ______________
Pour 200mm of concrete in a line of holes ______________
Set stringlines to edge of post position ______________
Calculate the spacing’s ______________
Stand posts to height stringline, pour rest of

concrete
______________
Mark spacing’s on profiles & run stringlines ______________
Repeat process for next line of posts ______________
Spray paint dots for excavation ______________
Plumb post to height stringline ______________

Step 3 - install timber bearers
Measuring and cutting
The next part of the sub-floor installation is to install the Bearers.

Before commencing, here is a sample of some of the information you should know from AS
1684.2:
1. Bearers may be single or continuous span over supports.
2. When required, they can be levelled by notching the underside over supports.
3. Bearers should have the bow faced upwards, and crippling must be over a support.
4. After crippling, the span is considered to be single span.
5. Joints must only be over supports, with minimum bearing of 50mm each side of the
joint. Bearers may also be lapped.
6. Acceptable joints can be seen opposite.
To see all the requirements, see AS 1684.2 Section 4.2.1 Bearers
Notching
The maximum amount a Bearer can be notched over a support is equal to the Depth of the
bearer (D) divided by 4. For example, a 100 x 75mm bearer can be notched a maximum of:
Maximum Notching = D ÷ 4
= 100 ÷ 4
= 25mm

Butt joint Half check Halved joint

© TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland
Scarfed joint Dove tail Vertical scarf

© TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland
Fixing
Generally speaking, Bearers can be bolted, nailed, or nail plated
together.
Bearers may also need to be fixed to their supports (an example is
shown opposite). The fixings must however, be engineered to
withstand gravity loads, wind uplift, and lateral wind loads.
This information may be found in the engineer plans for the job.
© TAFE Queensland

Example
Extensive information is also given in AS 1684.2 Section 9. Refer to it to see an
example in Table 9.16
Installing
The major steps to installing Bearers may include:
1. Check the bearer supports are at the correct
heights to bring floor level up to the FFL indicated
on the plans.
2. Install Damp Proof Course and Ant Capping on
the supports if required.
3. Cut bearers to length, joints must be over
supports, rows must be to the plan length of the
floor.
4. Fix bearers at joints according to plan
requirements.
5. Ensure tops of bearers are level by planning tops
or notching the underside over supports.
6. Low supports may be packed provided the
packing is a corrosion-resistant, incompressible
material (e.g. Fibrous Cement sheet) over the full Bearer bolted to embedded
area of support. Steel Post
7. Check the over-all dimensions for square, line and Mike Adamson, © TAFE
Queensland
level.
8. Fix bearers to supports if required.

Learning activity: timber bearer installation
Activity 4
Question 1
Where does AS 1684.2 allow bearers to be joined?
 Over supports
 Within one third its span from a support
 Within 150mm from a support
 Over a support or within a third its depth from a support
Question 2
What is the maximum allowable notching permitted for a Bearer that is 150mm
deep?
 25mm
 31mm
 37.5mm
 40mm
Question 3
What type of packing is permitted between the bearer and support?
 Softwood offcut packer
 Hardwood offcut packer
 Ply packer
 FC sheet packer

Question 4
When installing bearers, which of the following checks should be made?
 Check they are the correct plan lengths
 Check their tops finish level
 Check the overall set out is square
 All the above

6. Install floor joists
Step 1 - measure and cut joists
The next part of the sub-floor installation is to install the Joists.

Before commencing, here is a sample of some of the information you should know from AS
1684.2:
1. Tops of Joists must be level to receive flooring.
2. Undersides of Joists may be notched over bearers to bring them level.
3. Joists may be packed up to level, provided the packing is fixed, and is corrosion-
resistant and incompressible (e.g. Fibrous Cement sheet) over the full area of
contact.
4. Joist spacing must comply with the span capacity of the flooring.
5. Additional joists shall be provided to support load-bearing walls
6. Joists with spring can be crippled over the centre of a support, but will be
considered as single span.
7. Joints in Joists must be over a support, and have a minimum 30mm bearing on
each side of the joint.
8. Joists may be lap-jointed, but not under flooring or walls that require the joist to be
in one line.
Example
To see all the requirements and diagrams, see AS 1684.2 Section 4.2.2 Joists

Step 2 - notch holes in joists
The strength and integrity of the floor is greatly affected by weakening the joists during the
installation of electrical, plumbing and other services. Cuts, holes and notches in joists must
not exceed the sizes, or be spaced closer than, what is allowed in Section 4.1.6 of AS
1684.2.
The drawing opposite is an example of
one of the requirements where the ? is
given as D ÷ 4 in the AS. In this example if
the joist was 200mm deep, the maximum
hole diameter would be:
Maximum Hole Diameter = 200 ÷ 4
= 50mm
For all the requirements see AS 1684.2
Figure 4.1
© TAFE Queensland
Note
Not more than one hole per 180mm of span.
Step 3 - fix floor joists
Joists must be fixed to Bearers at all points of

support. Generally speaking, the minimum fixing for
a Floor Joist to the Bearer is:
2/75 x 3.05mm diameter nails (i.e. gun nails).
For more information, see AS 1684.2 Section 9
Floor Joists skew nailed to bearer

© TAFE Queensland

Step 4 - install floor joists
The major steps to installing Floor Joists may include:

1. Mark the positions of special joists e.g. Joists to carry sheet flooring joints, and the
positions of double joists that support load-bearing walls.
2. Using the joist spacing given (e.g. 450 centres), mark the remaining joist positions
on the top of the bearers.
3. Mark the same positions along both sides of the house, then flick a chalk line to
mark internal rows.
4. Load the joists onto the bearers, placing straightest lengths at ends, and sheet
flooring joints.
5. Cut joints at joins, or square-off ends for butt jointing. Outside ends can be squared,
or run past and cut off later to a stringline.
6. Stand the outside double joists with their bows upwards and fix them to the bearers.
Be sure bearers do not move out of position, brace them temporarily if needed.
7. Set a height stringline the full length of the floor.
8. Stand and fix internal joists to height, line and length, paying particular attention that
joists supporting flooring joints are nailed straight.
9. Check the over-all floor dimensions for square, line and level.
Fitted floor and position of double joists Platform Floor and position of double joists
© TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland
Step 5 - install strutting

Deep floor joists

Some Floor Joists need to span great distances. These situations are ideal for Deep Floor
Joists.
AS 1684.2 defines a Deep Floor Joist as being where the depth of the joist is equal to or
exceeds four times the breadth (thickness).
So for example, a 200 x 50mm joist would be classified as a Deep Joist, whereas a 150 x
40mm joist would not:
200 ÷ 50 = 4 = Deep Joist
150 ÷ 40 = 3.75 = not a Deep Joist
Deep Joists are unstable under loads and have a tendency to roll-over. To prevent this,
strutting is required to be installed on Deep Floor Joists (but is not compulsory on joists other
than Deep Floor Joists).
The AS 1684.2 states that strutting can be in the form of:
a) A Rim Board attached at right angles into the end of deep floor joists or I-joists.
b) Solid blocking or herringbone strutting between pairs of joists at not more than
1800mm centres.
It further specifies that:

1. Solid blocking may be a minimum of 25mm thick, and may be 25mm less in depth
than joists to provide ventilation.
2. Where there is no ceiling to the underside of unseasoned timber deep joists, solid
blocking or herringbone strutting shall be provided in rows not exceeding 1800mm
centres.
3. Rim boards shall be of a size suitable to carry uniform and point loads transferred to
them via the wall plates.
For a full explanation see AS 1684.2 Section 4.2.2.3

Strutting and blocking for deep joisted floors

© TAFE Queensland
Solid blocking Herringbone strutting

© TAFE Queensland © TAFE Queensland

Note: openings in floors
Some floors have openings for stairs and other purposes. In these cases, the joists need to
be ‘trimmed” around the opening to support them.
Trimmers
Trimmers must not be less in size than the floor joists, and may need their breadth
thickened to support the extra weight. Where the trimmed joists are joined to the trimmer, the
framing nails may need to be further supported by nail plate connectors.
Floor Joist trimming

© TAFE Queensland

Doorways
Doorways and other openings in walls may need
additional trimmers to support flooring.
Where specified by the manufacturer, some plain
sheet flooring may need nogging along their long
edges; however, tongue and groove sheets have
mostly alleviated the need.
Joist trimmers on flat in doorway

to support flooring
© TAFE Queensland
Blocking support
Blocking support may need to be installed between floor joists under point loads and
loadbearing walls, to prevent sagging.
For further details, see AS 1684.2 Section 4.3.2.5 Openings in Floors.
Blocking support under a point load

© TAFE Queensland

Learning activity: floor joists
Activity 5
Question 1
1684.2 requires that joints in floor joists?
 Have 20mm minimum support bearing either side of the joint
Question 2
What is the maximum allowable notching permitted for a Floor Joist that is
240mm deep?
 40mm
 48mm
 60mm
 80mm
Question 3
What should be installed to prevent roll-over of Deep Floor Joists?
 Solid blocking at 1800mm centres
 Herringbone strutting at 1800mm centres
 A Rim Board fixed into the ends
 Any of the above

Question 4
When setting out the position of floor joists, Which of the following are correct?
 Mark on the outside rows of bearers’ first
 Mark out special joists first, like double joists and joists for sheet flooring
joins.
 Flick a chalk line to locate marks on internal bearers
 All the above
Question 5
Which of the following is true?
 Trimmers must be deeper than the joists they support
 Trimmers must be thicker than the joists they support
 Trimmed joists can be fixed using extra nails only
 Trimmers may be thinner than the joists they support

7. Install flooring
Step 1 - measure and cut flooring
Strip flooring boards and decking boards are joined in the centre of floor joists, so
measurements need to be accurate. Cuts can be made on a drop saw, with care being taken
not to damage the board edges or the tongue.
Likewise, workers should never walk on boards before they are laid, as this damages the
edges and tongue, and makes the board unusable. Like strip flooring, sheet flooring must
have staggered joins, so planning and preparation are required before starting the job to
ensure joists are correctly located.
Sheet Flooring is usually 900 or 1200mm wide, so cutting them to length requires a steel
roofing square, and power saw against a straightedge, to make a quality cut.
Strip Flooring means quality cuts Sheet Flooring means wide cuts
© Shutterstock © Shutterstock
Note: consider flooring type
Strip flooring
Before beginning to lay strip flooring boards you should be aware that:
• Boards should be laid-out on the joists for up to 2 weeks to stabilise their moisture
content.
• Boards should be supported over at least three joists, and join on a joist, with joins
staggered across the room.
• End-matched boards should not all join between the same rows of joists in a room.
• Boards must be straight and parallel with the walls, and have a gap of 10mm to the
wall plate.

Species Grade Thicknes Acceptable species, Maximum

group s(mm) grade and joist spacing span(mm)
450mm 450m 600m End Butt

End m m Matched joined
matched Butt Butt
joined joined
Hardwood AS 2796
Select Grade 19 ✓ ✓ ✓ 500 630
Medium 19 ✓ ✓ ✗ 450 570

Feature
(standard) &
High Feature
Grade
Cypress AS 1810
No. 1 19 ✓ ✓ ✗ 410 510
No. 2 20 ✓ ✓ ✗ 410 510
Softwood AS 4785
Slash Pine Select & 19 ✓ ✓ ✗ 410 510

Standard
Other Select & 19 ✗ ✓ ✗ 350 470

Pinus Standard
Araucaria Manufacturers 20 ✓ ✓ ✗ 410 510

(Hoop Grades
Pine)

Tongue and groove floorboards

The main steps to installing Tongue and Groove floorboards to floor joists might be:
1. Lay, cramp and nail three rows to begin the first run, cramping against the groove
edge of boards.
2. Lay up to 800mm of boards at a time, cramping and nailing-off as you go.
3. Floor cramps should cramp against a straight-edge to prevent cramp damage to
boards.
4. To prevent buckling, do not over-cramp boards, local knowledge regarding moisture
content should be followed.
5. Check the distance to the far wall plate for parallel and adjust if necessary.
6. Final rows of boards may need to be cramped using a pinch bar or chisel.
7. Nail heads should be punched 3mm below the surface to allow for floor sanding.
8. Nails should be kept at least 12mm from the ends on boards to prevent splitting.
Otherwise, pre-drilling the nail holes may become necessary.
Type of
fixing Method Joist type
Softwood, LVL and Hardwood and Cypress

I-Beams
Secret Machine • 50 x 15 gauge staple, • 45 x 15 gauge staple,

fixing driven or or
19-21mm
• 50 x 16 gauge cleat • 45 x 16 gauge cleat
thick boards
and adhesive2 to joist and adhesive2 to joist
Top (face) Machine • 50 x 2.2mm T-head, • 50 x 2.2mm T-head, or

fixing 19- driven or
• 50 x 2.5mm T-head
21mm thick
• 50 x 2.5mm T-head and adhesive2 to joist
boards
and adhesive2 to joist
Hand • 50 x 2.8mm bullet • 50 x 2.8mm bullet head

driven head and adhesive2 to (adhesive2 to optional)
joist

Note
1. Fixings may vary to some degree between locations due to installers'
experience of local conditions.
2. A continuous (6mm to 10mm approx.) of flooring adhesives to be applied
to the joist
Fixing to battens
Fixing Tongue & Groove boards to a Concrete slab requires a vapour barrier and timber
battens to be fastened to the slab first (see drawing below).
Fixing to battens
© TAFE Queensland
Tongue & Groove floor top nailed and glued to timber battens over a concrete slab.

Fixing to plywood
Alternatively, the boards can be fixed to a layer of plywood sheeting (see below).
Fixing to plywood
© TAFE Queensland
Tongue & Groove floor secret nailed and glued to ply substrate over a concrete slab

Sheet flooring
The main steps for installing Sheet Flooring to floor joists might be:
1. The placing of the sheets and off cuts should have been planned when the joists
were set out, check measurements to confirm sheet placing.
2. Set a stringline along the longest side of the floor.
3. Run adhesive for the first sheet, lay it precisely to the stringline and centre of the join
joist; keep the groove facing the leading edge.
4. Nail or screw it in place to manufacturers’ instructions but do not fix the leading edge
until after the next row is laid. This prevents problems fitting the next sheet into the
groove.
5. Lay subsequent sheets across the floor, closely monitoring the stringline and joint
alignments. Glue, cramp and fix sheets to manufacturer’s instructions
6. Begin the next row with an off-cut sheet to stagger the joints. Continue to check for
parallel from the far edge of the floor.
7. When finished, trim the floor square to plan dimensions with a power saw.
8. Sweep the floor clean and apply waterproofing agent if required.
Tongue and groove sheet flooring

© TAFE Queensland

Learning activity: flooring
Activity 6
Question 1
To make quality cuts in flooring material:
 Measure to the centre of the joist
 Take care not to damage board edges and tongues
 Use a steel square and straightedge on wide cuts
 All the above
Question 2
Select all that are true:
Select two (2) correct responses.
 Boards should be given up to 2 days to stabilise their moisture content
before laying
 Boards should have a 10mm gap to the wall plate
 Joints in floor boards should be staggered between the same two joists in
a room
 End-matched boards should not be joined between the same two joists in
a room

Question 3
When cramping tongue and groove boards:
 Cramp against a timber straightedge
 Cramp against the tongue edge
 Cramp up more than 800mm at a time
 Cramp the boards as tight as the cramp can manage
Question 4
When installing tongue and groove boards:
 Keep the boards parallel to the wall plate ahead
 Punch nail heads 3mm below the surface
 Use a chisel to cramp final rows of boards
 All the above
Question 5
When installing sheet flooring:
 Run adhesive across all the joists first
 Stagger the joins to land on pre-planned joists
 Nail off the entire sheet before moving on to the next one
 Set a stringline along the shortest end of the floor

Clean up
Introduction
The job of nearly every apprentice is to clean up at the end of the day and also to pick up
and store all tools used during the day. Proper care and routine maintenance of your hand
and power tools will save you money and through routine care, your own personal safety is
maintained and risks to your health and wellbeing are minimised.
© Shutterstock
Worker safely and sites obligations

Whilst it may seem a chore the benefits of correctly clearing
a work site and correctly disposing, reusing or recycling
materials is considerable.
A clean site is the beginning of developing a safe site. Entry
and exit pathways are one of the first priorities in
maintaining a safe work site.
© Shutterstock
By doing these tasks you are complementing the site and
construction industry safety culture and having a direct
impact on minimising incident risk.
This is important as it gives you the ability to inspect if any © TAFE Queensland
damage has occurred during the day to equipment and the

supplies are stored and stacked correctly.
© Shutterstock
All sites require deliveries with the need to deliver machinery and equipment on site.
Therefore, maintaining site access provides prompt deliveries with materials placed where
they are required without double handling.
© Shutterstock

Environmental considerations and obligations
Clean up
Environmental obligations According to the Department of Sustainability, Environment,

Water, Population and Communities Construction and Demolition Waste Guide (2011), land
fill costs in 2009 in Australia ranged from $42 per tonne to $102 per tonne.
In 2011-12 the cost to manage litter and illegally dumped waste had risen to $670 per tonne.
The guide also explains that that building materials actually account for about half of all
materials used and about half the solid waste generated worldwide. As energy cost rise they
directly impact on the building materials and products, so it makes sense to reuse and
recycle waste. Accordingly, governments worldwide have responded to the need to reduce
waste through regulation and legislation. This has also helped create a market where profits
and improved environmental outcomes can be achieved by extracting valuable building
materials and products derived from the construction and demolition (C&D) waste stream.
The Queensland government’s Department of Environment and Heritage Protection State of
Waste and Recycling in Queensland 2012 report stated:
A significant change over the last five years is that the amount of construction and demolition
waste in landfills has fallen from an average of 1.2 million tonnes per year (2008-2010) to
less than 900,000 tonnes per year (2011-2012). Notable contributors to this downward trend
were Councils recovering greater amounts of concrete.
© Shutterstock

Video
Watch the full video titled “Clean up” - ask your teacher for the local location of
the video.
Importance of equipment maintenance

In addition to safety and efficiency considerations, there are also legislation, regulations and
codes of practice concerning environmental considerations in regard to clearing worksites
and disposing, reusing or recycling materials.
With extremely sharp blades that can spin up to 5,000
revolutions per minute, hand held circular saws pose
obvious risks if not maintained correctly. However, it is the
innocent looking blunt or damaged tool that can also cause
you injury.
Your workplace will have standard practices and routines
© Shutterstock
in place for cleaning and storing plant, tools and equipment,
as well as schedules for inspections and maintenance.
The employer is responsible for the safe condition of the equipment and the employee is
responsible for the safe use of the equipment. Never use tools that are damaged or in need
of maintenance.
© Shutterstock

Example
For example, often hazards from hand tools come from misuse, such as a
screwdriver being used as a chisel, which may cause the tip to fly off causing
injury to yourself or fellow employees.
Hand tools
Cold chisels can be dangerous if not maintained properly,

because of the repeated striking of the metal head, the top
mushrooms out, this tends to spread and get thinner until it
splits or curls and breaks off. If this was to occur when striking
the cold chisel it can result in a dangerous projectile.
Simple maintenance of regularly grinding the top of the tool
© Shutterstock
will prevent this.
© Shutterstock
Always make sure tools have been checked for damage and defects as you clean the tool
and remove any dust, grease or debris. Refer to manufacturer recommendations for the
particular tool’s correct cleaning and storage requirements.

Wooden handles
© Shutterstock
Wooden handles that have become rough or weathered can be rubbed down with medium
grit sandpaper. You should be able to slide your hand freely along the handle. Linseed oil
assists in protecting the timber. Sledge hammers with loose, splintered, or cracked handles
can allow the head to fly off striking the user or fellow worker.
Digging tools such as shovels should be sharpened, file the working edge to a 45- degree
bevel with a course file or grinder. The steel can be lightly sprayed with fine oil and wiped
down with a rag before storing.
Power tools
© Shutterstock

• Always unplug power tools when conducting any inspection or maintenance.
• Check the handle and body casting for cracks or damage.
• Inspect any auxiliary or double handles to ensure they are correctly installed.
• The power cord requires checking for fraying, cracking or any other sign of wear.
• Switches require checking for faulty trigger.
• Blades require daily inspections.
• Never carry a tool by its hose or lead.
Remember.
When rolling up leads at end of the day, start at
power source. This will assist in eliminating electric
shock. Remember, when rolling up the power lead,
use your fingers to feel for any damage to the cord.
© Shutterstock
Video
Watch the full video titled “The importance of equipment maintenance” - ask
your teacher for the local location of the video.

Useful resources - clean up
Web link
State of Waste and Recycling in Queensland 2012 report
http://bit.ly/2hIVbMP – Department of Environment and Heritage Protection
(Queensland Government)
Construction and Demolition Waste Guide (2012)

http://bit.ly/1W4jcKH – Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water,
Population and Communities (Commonwealth Government)

Learning activity - clean up
Activity 7
Attempt the following questions (answers are at the back of this questions)
Question 1
What are some key benefits of cleaning up a work site and correctly disposed of,
reusing or recycling materials?
 Worker’s Safety
 Environmental benefits
 Worksite efficiency
 Meeting legislative requirements
Question 2
In accordance with manufacturer recommendations and standard work practices
plant, tools and equipment should be what?
 Stored
 Checked
 Cleaned
 Maintained

Question 3
What are the maintenance and safety checks that should be performed for the
following power tool?
© Shutterstock
 Check lead for damage and safety tag is current

 Check saw casing for damage
 Check and remove angle screw adjuster before use
 Check guard is retracting and not jamming
 Check that saw blade has been installed to cut timber downward not
upward

Check your activity answers
Activity 1
Question 1
What are some of the employee responsibilities under the WHS Act and regulations?
• Develop safe operating procedures
• Not misuse or damage PPE
• Wear/ use PPE provided
• Inform the PCBU if PPE is damaged or defective
Question 2
• Performance
• Colour
• Hourly cost
• Cost of servicing
Question 3
A yellow and black safety tag with a caution symbol indicates:
• Out of service
• Hazard ahead
• Personal danger
• All of the above

Question 4
What are good storage conditions for materials such as timber?
• Clean
• Dry
• Well ventilated
• Humid
Question 5
Watch the video by WorkCover Queensland about reducing the risk of manual task injuries in
the workplace.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=932o4KLDliI
Select the five risk factors that are identified in the video?
• Asbestos
• Awkward and static postures
• Cross contamination
• Duration
• Electrocution
• Forceful Exertions
• Poisoning
• Repetition
• Tinnitus
• Vibration

Question 6
In Queensland the supporting ecologically sustainable development is the object of which
Act?
• Work Health and Safety Act 2011
• Waste Reduction and Recycling Act 2011
• Environmental Protection Act 1994
• Criminal Organisation Act 2009
Question 7
Environmental protection is a responsibility of which Queensland government department?
• Agriculture and Fisheries
• Environment and Heritage Protection
• Education and Training
• Premier and Cabinet
Activity 2
Question 1
What Australian Standard covers residential Timber-frame Construction?
• AS1648 – 2001
• AS1468 – 2001
• AS1684 – 2010
• AS1468 – 2010

Question 2
Ant capping is installed at sub-floor level to?
• Stop ants entering the building
• Stop termites entering the building
• Allow termites to be detected entering the building
• Allow termites access to the building
Question 3
The main purpose of a bearer is to?
• Carry and distribute the weight of the building
• Support the Flooring material
• Provide something to nail the flooring to
• Provide something to nail the strutting to
Question 4
© TAFE Queensland
Which drawing shows a fitted floor?
• Drawing 1
• Drawing 2
• Neither drawing
• Both drawings

Question 5
An example of strip flooring would be?
• Hardwood Decking
• Tongue and Groove boards
• End-matched Tongue and Groove boards
• All the above
Activity 3
Circle the correct term from the column on the right for the item in the left column.
Ans:
Steps to take Correct response
Calculate the spacings 1
Mark spacings on profiles & run stringlines 2
Spray paint dots for excavation 3
Dig the holes 4
Set stringlines to edge of post position 5
Pour 200mm of concrete in a line of holes 6
Stand posts to height stringline, pour rest of 7

concrete
Plumb post to height stringline 8
Re-check the posts for plumb and height 9
Repeat process for next line of posts 10

Activity 4
Question 1
Where does AS 1684.2 allow bearers to be joined?
• Over supports
• Within one third its span from a support
• Within 150mm from a support
• Over a support or within a third its depth from a support
Question 2
What is the maximum allowable notching permitted for a Bearer that is 150mm deep?
• 25mm
• 31mm
• 37.5mm
• 40mm
Question 3
What type of packing is permitted between the bearer and support?
• Softwood offcut packer
• Hardwood offcut packer
• Ply packer
• FC sheet packer
Question 4
When installing bearers, which of the following checks should be made?
• Check they are the correct plan lengths
• Check their tops finish level
• Check the overall set out is square
• All the above

Activity 5
Question 1
1684.2 requires that joints in floor joists?
• Have 20mm minimum support bearing either side of the joint
Question 2
What is the maximum allowable notching permitted for a Floor Joist that is 240mm deep?
• 40mm
• 48mm
• 60mm
• 80mm
Question 3
What should be installed to prevent roll-over of Deep Floor Joists?
• Solid blocking at 1800mm centres
• Herringbone strutting at 1800mm centres
• A Rim Board fixed into the ends
• Any of the above

Question 4
When setting out the position of floor joists, Which of the following are correct?
• Mark on the outside rows of bearers’ first
• Mark out special joists first, like double joists and joists for sheet flooring joins.
• Flick a chalk line to locate marks on internal bearers
• All the above
Question 5
Which of the following is true?
• Trimmers must be deeper than the joists they support
• Trimmers must be thicker than the joists they support
• Trimmed joists can be fixed using extra nails only
• Trimmers may be thinner than the joists they support
Activity 6
Question 1
To make quality cuts in flooring material:
• Measure to the centre of the joist
• Take care not to damage board edges and tongues
• Use a steel square and straightedge on wide cuts
• All the above

Question 2
Select all that are true:
• Boards should be given up to 2 days to stabilise their moisture content before laying
• Boards should have a 10mm gap to the wall plate
• Joints in floor boards should be staggered between the same two joists in a room
• End-matched boards should not be joined between the same two joists in a
room
Question 3
When cramping tongue and groove boards:
• Cramp against a timber straightedge
• Cramp against the tongue edge
• Cramp up more than 800mm at a time
• Cramp the boards as tight as the cramp can manage
Question 4
When installing tongue and groove boards:
• Keep the boards parallel to the wall plate ahead
• Punch nail heads 3mm below the surface
• Use a chisel to cramp final rows of boards
• All the above

Question 5
When installing sheet flooring:
• Run adhesive across all the joists first
• Stagger the joins to land on pre-planned joists
• Nail off the entire sheet before moving on to the next one
• Set a stringline along the shortest end of the floor
Activity 7
Question 1
What are some key benefits of cleaning up a work site and correctly disposed of, reusing or
recycling materials?
• Worker’s Safety
• Environmental benefits
• Worksite efficiency
• Meeting legislative requirements
Question 2
In accordance with manufacturer recommendations and standard work practices plant, tools
and equipment should be what?
• Stored
• Checked
• Cleaned
• Maintained

Question 3
What are the maintenance and safety checks that should be performed for the following
power tool?
© Shutterstock
• Check lead for damage and safety tag is current
• Check saw casing for damage
• Check and remove angle screw adjuster before use
• Check guard is retracting and not jamming
• Check that saw blade has been installed to cut timber downward not upward

Glossary
Term Meaning
AS Australian Standards
BAL Bushfire Attack Level
BCA Building Code of Australia
CFC Compressed Fibrous Cement sheets
EMS Environmental Management Systems
EP Act Environmental Protection Act
FFL Finished Floor Level
FLW Floor Load Width
FRL Fire Resistance Level
FZ Flame Zone
Glulam Glue Laminated Beams
HAV Hand Arm Vibration
MDF Medium Density Fibre-board
OSB Oriented Strand Board
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
RL Relative Level
SWMS Safe Work Method Statements

References
• http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trigger-finger/basics/definition/con-
20043819
• https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/58195/scaffolding-cop-
2009.pdf
• http://quality-assurance.com.au/iso-14001-environmental-management-systems-ems/
• http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/waste/pdf/state-of-waste-recycling-report.pdf
• http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/resources/b0ac5ce4-4253-4d2b-b001-
0becf84b52b8/files/case-studies.pdf
• http://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/SLS/2011/11SL240.pdf
• http://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/injury-prevention-safety/managing-risks/personal-
protective-equipment-ppe
• https://www.hilti.com.au/downloads
• http://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/sites/SWA/about/Publications/Documents/865/G
uide-scaffold-inspection-maintenance.docx
• https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/rehab-and-claims/injuries-at-work/injury-cost-
calculator
• https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0010/58195/scaffolding-cop-
2009.pdf
• http://www.bsigroup.com/LocalFiles/es-MX/ISO%2014001/ISO%2014001-
Assessment-Checklist-UK.pdf
• http://policy.cqu.edu.au/Policy/policy_file.do?policyid=150
• http://www.woodsolutions.com.au/Articles/Resources/Grades
• http://www.dindas.com.au/building-products/glue-laminated-beams.aspx
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glued_laminated_timber
• https://www.worksafe.qld.gov.au/forms-and-resources/films/no-sprains,-big-gains
• http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/
• https://www.legislation.qld.gov.au/LEGISLTN/CURRENT/E/EnvProtA94.pdf
• https://www.qld.gov.au/about/how-government-works/legislation/

• https://www.woodsolutions.com.au/fwpa/article_downloads/Design_Guide_09_Timbe
r_Flooring_5-6_MB.pdf

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CPCCCA3003A V1.1 16/09/2018 Assessing Risks

CPCCCA3003A V1.2 July 2020 Amendments to Q3 in

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What will I learn?

Are there any special requirements?

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TAFE Queensland student rules

Information to support your learning and assessment

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Learning activity: timber bearer installation .....................................................................123

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• Plan and prepare

• Set out sub-floor frame

• Install timber bearers

• Install timber floor joists

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Following occupational health and safety requirements

Safety plans and policies

Did you know a site specific induction is no longer a requirement under

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• Emergency shutdown and stopping.

• Organisational first aid requirements.

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Hazard control can involve a single control measure (such as

Protective clothing must be worn

Hazardous materials and substances

There are many hazardous materials and substances in the

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Safe operating procedures

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Organisational first aid

Use of firefighting equipment

Within your organisation fire wardens will be trained in the

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Use of tools and equipment

Workplace environment and safety

Workplace and equipment safety requirements

A business must ensure as far as is reasonably practicable, the health

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Reviewing control measures

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Personal protective equipment

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• Hats - That protect us from the harmful rays of the sun

• Hoods - That protect us from hazardous chemicals or fumes

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• Sunglasses- Reduce the effects of ultra violet radiation and glare

• Respirators and masks -Limit our exposure to dangerous substances or other

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