Book: How & Why Chapter: How to build fences Section: Project leader's notes Metadata: Details Buy this book

Site Visit

Visit the work site in advance to gain a clear idea of what you will be doing on the day.

Assess the suitability of the project for the group you will be leading and the time available.

Work out the exact line of the fence and the positions of the straining posts. These are usually determined by the lie of the land (a post at every change of direction or major change of gradient), but straining posts can be up to 110m apart, although 50m is preferable.

Undertake a risk assessment for both project and site.

Tools and equipment

Depending on the size of the team adjust the quantity of equipment taken to the site. Ensure the tools are in good condition before using them.

• First aid kit
• Appropriate protective gloves
• Fencing gauntlets
• Impact grade goggles
• Safety helmets
• Spirit levels
• Lines and pegs
• Tape measure
• Wire cutters
• Fencing pliers
• Surform
• Crowbar/pinch bar
• Wrecking bar/swan neck
• Drivall
• Tamper or punner
• Claw hammer
• Mallet
• Wood chisel
• Spades
• Shuvholers
• Bowsaw
• Mell or maul
• Wire strainers
• Stob holder
• Wire twister
• Staple extractor

Ensure all team members are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing and issue specified safety equipment.

Introduction

Introduce the site, the work and the reasons for doing it.

Walk the line of the fence explaining what work will be undertaken. Identify potential hazards and explain how to work safely around them.

Lay out materials, describe any potential problems and indicate the positions of the straining posts (decide upon these now if you have not already done so).

Demonstrate tool use

Demonstrate and explain the safe use, carrying and onsite care of the tools before starting work.

Refer to the BTCV Hand Tools booklet.

Demonstrate work techniques

Demonstrate all new work techniques as you come to them. This will save mistakes and avoid accidents.

Demonstrate correct lifting technique (bending the knee and keeping the back straight so that the leg muscles are used and the back is not strained).

Refer to the BTCV Basic Safety leaflet.

Organisation of team

Divide the team into pairs, teaming beginners with more experienced fencers.

The most efficient way to work is to form a production line, each team doing a specific job. Pairs can be swapped around at tea or lunch breaks.

Try to finish a certain length per day, rather than leaving more started than unfinished

Ascertain how stockproof the fence has to be between work periods and leave it that way.

Ensure any post holes are filled or covered overnight.

The leader should check, assist and encourage people and ensure work standards are maintained.

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