This article will cover the occupational outlook for masonry contractors. The article will also discuss the work environment, certification requirements, and physical demands of this career. If you’re interested in learning more about the career prospects of masonry contractors, please continue reading! If you’re not sure what a career in this field entails, read on to discover the pros and cons of the masonry contractor route. For more information, visit the links below.
The occupational outlook for masonry contractors
The construction industry has a critical shortage of skilled masonry workers, and the demand for trained labor is rising. Career technical education programs are becoming more common in high schools and colleges, and organized labor and contractors are taking steps to address this issue. Masonry workers will see a 12% job growth between 2016 and 2026, adding 34,500 new jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This growth is primarily due to the growing population.
During periods of slow construction activity, there will be an increased need for masons. However, the lack of skilled labor will be offset by a growing number of retirements. The average age of a brick layer is 54 years old, making this occupation particularly vulnerable to the aging population. As a result, employment prospects for masons will remain good, particularly for those with experience. As more and more Baby Boomers get older, the need for masons will keep going up.
Work environment
One of the most difficult aspects of the masonry industry is attracting and retaining qualified employees. A recent survey by the Associated General Contractors of America found that only 3% of construction executives are happy with the current work environment. Many contractors do not spend enough time or money on recruitment. However, they should invest in training and apprenticeship programs to increase the number of qualified workers. Also, mason contractors should be willing to make some adjustments to their hiring processes to attract the right employees for the job.
Working as a mason requires an individual to use power tools, lift heavy materials, and apply mortar to bind the components. This job requires a steady pace, as bricklayers must place and apply layers of mortar precisely to make them adhere to each other. Furthermore, brick masons must use tools and equipment to achieve a consistent level of quality. These include chisels and trowels, which are used to spread mortar and cut materials. Chisels are also used to break excess cement or remove bricks from walls.
Certification requirements
There are several different types of certifications for masonry contractors. One of these is the Sustainable Masonry Certification Program (SMCP). By passing this test, you can become an invaluable part of a LEED-certified project. This certification covers LEED credits, green strategies, and subcontractor responsibilities. To be certified, you must have worked in the field for five years and have a steady team of qualified masons.
The Mason Contractor Association of America certifies masonry contractors through the program. Each company must enroll in the program, and the primary person in charge of masonry operations must pass the exam and earn credits to maintain the certification. The MCAA certification program costs $850 and requires a reapplication every three years. After that, the certification is revoked if the responsible individual leaves the company. The program is an important aspect of the masonry industry.
Physical demands
Masonry workers perform construction work that involves significant physical, mental, and temporal demands. High task demands increase errors and decrease productivity. The physical demands of masonry work are investigated in this study to understand the factors that influence performance and the practices of field supervisors. The study uses the NASA Task Load Index to measure the subjective assessment of task demands of masonry workers. Data from two masonry projects was collected to identify factors that increased task demands.
The physical demands of masonry work are high because they often require manual labor. They must lift heavy materials and stand for extended periods of time. Work may be indoors or outdoors and may be affected by inclement weather. Regardless of the location, brick masons are exposed to potential risks of injury, including falling, getting hit by objects, and sustaining fractures while working. However, this work can be dangerous if proper safety measures are not followed.
