We always came across job adverts on behalf of construction companies looking for laborers. Entering manual labor in the UK is open for citizens and immigrants as well. Recently, the requirements for this blue-collar industry have made some changes. In this article, we will highlight the requirements of becoming a labourer in the UK in companies and manufacturing places. Let’s get started!

What is a Laborer?

Laborers are workers who establish the percentage of the workforce of manual activities. They are operating in many industries and companies, especially in construction sites. A construction labourer differs from a farm labourer or any worker active in a different field, in terms of tasks, working hours and wages.

What are the Roles of a Construction Labourer?

A construction labourer can tackle many roles and responsibilities. The construction field is usually based on teamwork and working staff that collide together to achieve a construction project. The purpose of a construction labourer depends on the part of another colleague, as there is a chain of activities based on the cooperation of different working members. These tasks vary from one labourer to another and depend on the assignment of a chief labourer who determines each worker's role. These roles might differ in terms of

-Experience: an experienced labourer has a list of tasks that differ from an apprentice of a debuting worker.

-Seniority: a senior labourer who has spent a long career in construction sites obtains different tasks than a junior worker. A young labourer between 18-24 years old gets around the £8 mark per hour. An old laborer’s payment ranges from 10 to 12 per hour.

-Nationality: immigrants who want to work for construction companies in the UK are subject to the supply and demand hiring process. They also take different roles and get a must-have training to master the construction system.

-Manual specialty: a construction project is a set of various manual tasks. It requires specialists in bricklaying, implementing water and electrical supplies, furnishing, etc…each worker in the construction site should have an apprentice certificate in one of these specialties. Here is all you need to know about electricians.

Requirements to Become a Labourer in the UK:

Every industry puts a set of terms and conditions to hire new applicants. The labor market in the UK has recently amended laws related to employing workers and protecting their rights. These requirements evolve around three central areas:

Qualifications, skills, and experience. Take a look at How to Become a Baker in the UK?

The General Qualifications of a Construction Labourer:

If you are interested in pursuing a career in construction sites, you need to work on providing the specific expertise required for the field.

First, you need a driving license: the field of construction is based on transporting heavy materials on big lorries. A driving license is a must in a labourer applying for driving tasks.

Second, you need to visit the targeted construction company and inquire about any job vacancy. Once you reach there, you can start the CSCS procedures. That is, you will provide a mandatory green labourer card to get access to the site.

-You should also prepare for the CSCS card fees to learn the UK safety construction program. After that, you should pass a CITB Health and Safety and Environment Test to complete your application documents.

-Third, you need to fill up an application form and bring a copy of your apprentice certificate. You should also be prepared for a walk-in interview, in which you can discuss with your boss the work details, including the duration of the project.

-You can also sign a contract and make arrangements with your boss.

Your payment depends on the nature of your work. If your craft is bricklaying, you will be paid differently than someone responsible for plastering or window fitting.

A Labourer Apprenticeship:

A potential labourer needs to achieve apprenticeship in a specific area to get hired later. Learning any craft requires mastering several tools and machines. It also requires the precise use of geometrical dimensions and the ability to furnish the final work and make it more presentable. Apprenticeship is available for:

-School leavers who didn’t complete the GCSE or reach the A levels.

-Immigrants who want to make a living by learning manual work.

-Internees who are graduates from interior design classes or construction academies.

-Veteran soldiers or people with special needs who want to work on hourly rating projects. Take a look at What Attracts You To A Career In The Construction Industry? interview questions.

-Apprentices who have achieved Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills can apply for further studies in college.

In other terms, apprenticeship involves various people and age groups and may open the path to direct work or applying for equivalent degrees. You may also find out How to Become a Security Guard?

How to Apply for Level 2 NVQ (National Vocational Qualification)?

For construction operations, applicants need to prepare for Level 2 NVQ. This qualification consists of all the general aspects of the building. The benefits of this certificate are various:

-This Level can help you boost your CV's strength and make you recommended for essential projects. You may also find out; Will my Job Opportunities Boost up with an apprenticeship?

-Your payment rate can increase.

-Your ability to take site safety related courses such as working at heights, avoiding professional accidents, first aid at work, etc.…

A Labourer’s Salary and Perks:

In London construction projects, the daily rate for laborers can reach more than £80. The advantage of working in this area consists of getting a payment that surpasses the minimum wage, better working conditions. Concerning job perks, applicants can apply for a construction company that provides accommodation for immigrants or travel expenses.

That was all about the construction labourer types and applications in the UK. If you are interested in more blue-collar jobs, visit Fratres and read about the different professional options.