Excavation—Cave-ins are dangerous and common. Ensure that excavations are adequately back-sloped or shored to prevent slope failure. Foundation—Concrete formwork must be strong enough to resist the weight of the concrete while it is being poured. Framing—Care is required for the placement and temporary bracing of wall sections. Wood trusses are unstable until they have been braced. Exterior finishes and roofing—Since this involves working at heights well above ground, those doing this work must take proper care and wear fall protection devices. Electrical and mechanical—Wiring, gas piping and heating and electrical appliances must be installed by qualified personnel to ensure safety during construction and over the lifespan of the house. General—Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the use of all equipment and tools and obtain practice and experience. Use eye, breathing and hearing protection. Fall protection and the securing of ladders and scaffolding are important steps to ensuring safe construction. PROTECTION AGAINST MOISTURE AND TERMITES Wood-frame construction has a record of long-lasting performance. Like all materials, wood has advantages and disadvantages, and some precautions are needed to ensure long service life. and construction, proper material storage and handling, and the use of materials suited to service conditions. Many of the chapters in this book cover, to some extent, the building materials and principles intended to reduce damage from moisture such as: Chapter 5—Functions of the Building Envelope: Water, Air, Vapour and Heat Control: The building envelope must prevent the movement of water and vapour. Chapter 7—Footings, Foundations and Slabs: Foundation dampproofing and, where high water tables occur, waterproofing are essential for keeping basements dry. In addition, roofing, cladding, flashing, vapour barriers, air barriers, ventilated roof spaces, windows and doors all play a role in keeping building materials dry, and they must all work together as a system. Separation from Wet Conditions Wood can be used in exposed locations without having to be preservative-treated if it is kept off the ground and installed so that drying is possible between wettings. Here are some examples of separation: Wood will not decay in conditions where it is kept dry or, if wetted, has an opportunity to dry. Protection is ensured through good design Chapter 3—Concrete: Good concrete mix design, placement and curing is essential for preventing water leakage in foundations. Foundation walls should be kept at least 200 mm (8 in.) from the ground where wood sidings or wood-base sidings are used. The ground level in a crawl space should be at least 300 mm (12 in.) below joists and beams.