27409 Site Preparation

Course Syllabus: NCCER Module 27409 – Site Preparation

Course Information

• Course Title: Site Preparation
• Course Code: NCCER Module 27409
• Training Hours: 7.5 hours
• Academic Credit Recommendation: 0.5 semester hours (where applicable)
• Edition: Current NCCER Carpentry Curriculum (references ISBN 978-0-13-832365-3 for Trainee Guide)
• Prerequisites: Completion of NCCER Core Curriculum and/or lower-level Carpentry modules (e.g., General Carpentry fundamentals). Basic understanding of construction safety and blueprints recommended.
• Delivery Format: Classroom instruction, discussion, and review of practical applications (may include hands-on demonstrations where facilities allow).

Course Description

This module covers the planning process that precedes the start of work on a construction site. Topics include environmental considerations, personnel issues, access roads, traffic control, permits, site safety, utilities, and crane-related concerns. Trainees learn to identify and address key pre-construction challenges to ensure a safe, compliant, and efficient site setup.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

• Identify and describe environmental concerns on construction sites, including hazardous materials and noise restrictions.
• Explain methods to prevent erosion and sedimentation, including stormwater management practices.
• Describe techniques for mitigating subsurface water problems and controlling runoff.
• Understand the proper placement and protection of utilities during site setup.
• Outline procedures for ensuring site safety and security, including worker provisions and material storage.
• Describe the setup of access roads, traffic control measures, and ground preparation for heavy equipment.
• Identify permitting requirements, site identification needs (e.g., emergency addressing), and crane-related considerations (e.g., ground stability and leveling).
• Explain how to handle natural vegetation, spoils, and soil volume changes (e.g., loose vs. compacted soil).
• Discuss personnel logistics, including provisions for potable water and site facilities.

Required Materials

• NCCER Site Preparation Trainee Guide (Module 27409)
• NCCER Carpentry curriculum access (digital or print)
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) for any hands-on activities
• Notebook, calculator, and writing materials

Course Outline

The module is structured around the following key topics (approximate time allocation based on 7.5 hours total):

1. Introduction to Site Preparation (1 hour)
   • Overview of site preparation activities: clearing, grubbing, and structure removal.
   • Importance of pre-construction planning and site records.
2. Environmental Considerations and Regulations (1.5 hours)
   • Hazardous materials handling.
   • Stormwater management, runoff control, and federal/local regulations.
   • Noise restrictions and community impact.
3. Erosion and Sedimentation Control (1.5 hours)
   • Best practices for preventing erosion (e.g., minimizing soil disturbance).
   • Sediment control measures (e.g., detention ponds, wheel-wash stations, rim ditches).
4. Subsurface and Water Management (1 hour)
   • Mitigating subsurface water issues.
   • Handling spoils and natural vegetation.
5. Site Setup and Logistics (1 hour)
   • Placement of utilities.
   • Material storage and site security.
   • Personnel provisions (e.g., potable water, facilities).
   • Site identification and emergency access.
6. Access, Traffic, and Equipment Preparation (1 hour)
   • Access roads and traffic control.
   • Ground stabilization for equipment (e.g., crane pads, 1% grade tolerance).
   • Soil volume considerations and compaction basics.
7. Permits, Safety, and Crane Concerns (0.5 hours)
   • Permitting processes.
   • Overall site safety integration.
   • Crane types and site-specific requirements.

Teaching Methods

• Instructor-led presentations and discussions
• Review of construction drawings and site plans
• Group activities analyzing real-world site preparation scenarios
• Review questions and practice quizzes

Assessment and Evaluation

• Formative Assessment: Participation in discussions, completion of module review questions, and in-class activities.
• Summative Assessment: NCCER Module Examination (written test covering all objectives; passing score typically 70% or higher).
• Performance Tasks (if applicable): Identification and description of site preparation elements (knowledge-based; no hands-on performance profile required for this module).
• Certification: Successful completion (passing exam and attendance) earns the NCCER Site Preparation (27409) credential, recorded in the NCCER National Registry.

Policies

• Attendance: Full attendance required for certification eligibility.
• Safety: All participants must adhere to OSHA guidelines and wear appropriate PPE.
• Academic Integrity: Cheating on exams will result in failure and ineligibility for certification.
• Accommodations: Available upon request for qualified individuals.

This syllabus aligns with NCCER standards and prepares trainees for safe and effective contributions to construction site preparation. Contact the instructor or NCCER-accredited training sponsor for specific schedule details.