27305 Handling and Placing Concrete
Course Syllabus: Handling and Placing Concrete
Course Title: Handling and Placing Concrete Module ID: NCCER 27305 (also referenced as 27305-14 in some editions) Craft: Carpentry Level Three (also included in Construction Craft Laborer and related curricula) Duration: 20 Hours (including classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and review) Credit Hours: Approximately 1.33 academic credits (varies by institution) Format: Blended (classroom theory, lab demonstrations, and hands-on performance tasks)
Course Description
This module introduces the tools, equipment, materials, and safe procedures for handling, transporting, placing, consolidating, finishing, and curing concrete. Trainees learn methods for moving concrete on site, proper placement techniques to avoid segregation, consolidation practices, basic finishing for flatwork, joint construction, and curing methods. Emphasis is placed on safety, quality control, and preventing common defects in concrete work. This module aligns with NCCER standards and prepares trainees for certification.
Prerequisites
- Completion of NCCER Core Curriculum (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Tools, Drawings, etc.)
- Recommended: Prior modules such as Properties of Concrete (27304) and Reinforcing Concrete
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:
- Identify and safely use tools and equipment for transporting, placing, consolidating, and finishing concrete.
- Describe methods for handling and moving concrete, including buckets, chutes, pumps, buggies, and conveyors.
- Explain procedures for placing concrete in forms, avoiding segregation, and properly consolidating it using vibration or other methods.
- Identify types of joints in concrete structures (construction, control/contraction, expansion/isolation) and describe the installation of joint sealants.
- Perform basic finishing tasks, including screeding, floating, and edging flatwork.
- Understand curing methods and their importance in achieving concrete strength and durability.
- Recognize safety hazards associated with concrete work (e.g., heavy lifting, chemical exposure, equipment operation) and apply preventive measures, including stretching and proper PPE.
- Demonstrate knowledge of hot and cold weather concreting considerations.
Performance Tasks
Under instructor supervision, trainees must demonstrate proficiency in the following (as required for NCCER certification):
- Safely transport and place concrete using common methods.
- Consolidate concrete properly (e.g., using internal vibrators).
- Construct or identify common concrete joints.
- Perform basic screeding and finishing on a concrete placement.
- Apply curing compounds or methods.
Trainees must complete 100% of performance profile tasks to qualify for NCCER credentials.
Course Outline
| Session | Topics Covered | Hours | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduction and Safety – Overview of concrete handling hazards – PPE, stretching exercises, and safe lifting – Site preparation for placement | 2.5 | Lecture, safety video, discussion |
| 2 | Tools and Equipment – Hand tools (shovels, come-alongs, screeds) – Power tools (vibrators, pumps) – Transport equipment (wheelbarrows, buggies, chutes, belts, pumps) | 3 | Demonstration, tool identification quiz |
| 3 | Handling and Transporting Concrete – Preventing segregation – Methods for moving concrete (direct discharge, pumping, conveying) | 3 | Lecture, group discussion on job scenarios |
| 4 | Placing and Consolidating Concrete – Placement techniques in forms and slabs – Consolidation methods (rodding, vibration) – Avoiding cold joints | 4 | Hands-on lab: Simulated placement and vibration |
| 5 | Joints and Sealants – Types of joints (construction, control, expansion, isolation) – Joint installation and sealant application | 2.5 | Lecture, joint construction demo |
| 6 | Basic Finishing and Curing – Screeding, floating, troweling, edging – Curing methods (wet curing, compounds, covers) – Weather considerations | 3 | Hands-on lab: Finishing practice pours |
| 7 | Review and Assessment – Module review – Written exam preparation – Performance task verification | 2 | Review games (e.g., Quizlet-style flashcards), mock exam |
Required Materials
- NCCER Trainee Guide: Handling and Placing Concrete (Module 27305)
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, hearing protection
- Access to concrete tools and equipment (provided in lab)
- Notebook and writing materials
Assessment and Grading
- Written Exam: Multiple-choice module examination (minimum 70% to pass)
- Performance Tests: Hands-on verification of tasks (100% completion required for NCCER credit)
- Participation/Attendance: Active engagement in labs and discussions
- Certification: Successful completion earns NCCER credential badge for Module 27305 (recorded in NCCER National Registry)
Policies
- Safety: Zero tolerance for unsafe practices; violations may result in removal from lab.
- Attendance: Full attendance required for hands-on portions.
- Make-up Work: Arrangements must be made with instructor for missed sessions.
This syllabus is based on NCCER standardized curriculum and prepares trainees for real-world concrete operations in carpentry and construction trades. Contact your NCCER Accredited Training Sponsor for specific implementation details.