Lesson 9: Construction Begins - Safe Practices and Documentation

Date: October 2, 2025
Session Time: 8:00am-12:00pm EST
Duration: 4 hours (including 15-minute exercise)

Key Learning Objective

Implementing safe construction practices and establishing systematic documentation protocols for project progress tracking.

Lesson Overview

This session marks the transition from planning to execution, focusing on safety protocols, proper tool usage, and establishing documentation systems for the construction phase.

Main Activities (3 hours 45 minutes)

  • Safety equipment demonstration and fitting
  • Tool safety and proper usage techniques
  • Construction sequence planning and execution
  • Photo and journal documentation setup
  • Quality control and inspection procedures

15-Minute Exercise: Safety Setup and Documentation Start

Exercise Description

Set up a safe work area for a small construction task and begin the photo/journal documentation system that will be used throughout the project.

Materials Needed

  • Safety equipment (gloves, safety glasses, hard hat if available)
  • Camera or phone camera
  • Notebook or digital document
  • Basic tools (hammer, measuring tape, level)
  • Work area markers or cones

Exercise Steps (15 minutes)

  1. Safety Area Setup (5 minutes)
  2. Identify and mark a 10' x 10' work area
  3. Set up safety barriers or markers
  4. Check for potential hazards (overhead, ground, weather)
  5. Ensure proper lighting and ventilation

  6. Don appropriate safety equipment

  7. Tool Safety Check (3 minutes)

  8. Inspect tools for damage or wear
  9. Verify proper tool operation
  10. Check that safety guards are in place

  11. Note any tools that need maintenance or replacement

  12. Documentation System Setup (4 minutes)

  13. Create a photo log template with date, time, description
  14. Take 3 "before" photos of the work area
  15. Start a journal entry with today's date and weather conditions

  16. Note any initial observations or concerns

  17. Quality Control Plan (3 minutes)

  18. List 3 quality checkpoints for today's work
  19. Identify who will perform each check
  20. Note any specific measurements or standards to verify
  21. Plan how to document any issues found

Deliverable

  • Safety area setup checklist
  • Tool inspection report
  • 3 "before" photos with descriptions
  • Initial journal entry
  • Quality control checklist

Success Criteria

  • Work area is clearly marked and safe
  • All tools are inspected and functional
  • Photos clearly show starting conditions
  • Journal entry includes relevant details
  • Quality control plan is specific and actionable

Integration with Overall Project

This exercise establishes the safety and documentation foundation that will be maintained throughout the entire construction process, ensuring consistent quality and safety standards.

Previous Session: Lesson 8: Procurement
Next Session: Lesson 10: Progress Tracking