The formworker carries out four main operations:
- S/he builds the formwork, or the mould into which concrete is poured
- S/he places the steel reinforcement frame inside the mould to reinforce the concrete
- S/he pours the concrete into the mould
- S/he removes or strips the piece. This is a delicate operation as the concrete must be kept intact without damaging the formwork.
The formworker understands structural layout and installation, and can assemble and dismantle scaffolding and shoring equipment, construct and fit timber formwork, install and remove formwork panels, build reinforced concrete structures and the prefabricated components required for them, use small machines safely and monitor compliance and building quality. S/he has good manual skills and a good eye, is conscientious and enjoys taking the initiative.