Carpenters work on building sites and in commercial or residential buildings. Conditions on some building sites may be wet, muddy, noisy and dusty, and carpenters may have to work in cramped spaces. Carpenters may also be required to work at heights.

Work on a building site can be hazardous. Health and safety rules – such as wearing appropriate safety gear – must be followed at all times.

Equipment carpenters may use includes:

• different types of timber
• power and hand tools
• precise measuring equipment such as spirit levels and theodolites, which measure angles
• platforms and ladders
• safety harnesses, hard hats, gloves, steel-capped boots, safety glasses and ear protection.

Carpenters usually work regular hours, but on some building sites they may need to work longer hours. They may also work weekends.

Carpenters may work independently or in teams

They work closely with:

• clients
• engineers and architects
• other workers/tradespeople such as plumbers and electricians
• building suppliers.