Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 38 Section 2 Introduction to Masonry are safe. As the project is constructed, the scaffold is as- sembled to meet the needs of the masons. During the construction of the scaffold, ladders are used so that masons can access the work area. Certain scaffolds have built-in ladders when they are manufac- tured. As the height of the building increases, so too will the scaffolding structure. The scaffold is positioned approximately 22″ to 26″ away from the finished exterior wall surface. This distance depends on the size of the side brackets attached to the scaffold. Once the side brackets are in position, planking is placed on them. Side brackets and planking create a sur- face for masons to stand on when performing their work. As blocks or brick are laid on the building’s wall structure, the side brackets and planks are moved up the side of the scaffold. In this way, the masons’ work area is kept directly in front of them to improve production. 3.1.14 Mortar Mixers Mortar is usually prepared in a mechanical mixer, Figure 3‑31. Mortar mixers may be electric or gasoline powered, depending on contractor preference and avail- ability of electricity at the construction site. Mixers are produced in several sizes, but a typical size mixes about 4 cubic feet (cu ft) of mortar at a time. For best results, the dry materials are mixed first, and then the water is added. Do not allow mortar to harden in the mixer. Harden- ing prevents proper mixing of ingredients because the metal surfaces become clogged with mortar. Safety Note Training is required prior to working on scaffolding to a level that meets Federal Safety Standards. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) administers rules and regulation regarding safety and health over construction and general industry activities. One of OSHA’s regulations that pertains specifically to construction states: “A competent person shall determine the feasibility for safe access and fall protection for employees erect- ing and dismantling supported scaffolds. (Standard 1926.451(e)(9) and 1926.451(g)(2)”. For more detailed information on construction in general and specifically on scaffolding, see OSHA’s 1926 Construction Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Standards manual. Safety Note When placing materials on the scaffold, position only what will be used that day. Severe accidents can occur if scaffolding is overloaded with materials. 3.1.15 Masonry Saws Cutting masonry units with a masonry saw is faster and more accurate than using a mason’s chisel and ham- mer. A typical masonry saw is shown in Figure 3‑32. Masonry saw blades vary from 6″ to 24″ in diameter Marshalltown Company Figure 3‑31. A mechanical mortar mixer can be driven by either a gasoline engine or an electric motor. MK Diamond Products, Inc. Figure 3‑32. Masonry saw used for cutting brick and concrete block.