Question 1

What does a tool store attendant do on construction sites?

Accepted Answer

A tool store attendant manages and maintains the site's tool store, issuing and receiving tools and equipment to workers, maintaining accurate inventory records, inspecting tools for damage, coordinating repairs and maintenance, and ensuring all tools are accounted for. They play a crucial role in equipment management and site efficiency. Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 (MA000020), tool store attendants are typically classified as Construction Worker Level 2.

Question 2

What award covers tool store attendants in construction?

Accepted Answer

Tool store attendants working on building and construction sites are covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 (MA000020). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working on construction sites. Always verify which award applies to your specific construction business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a tool store attendant?

Accepted Answer

Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020, tool store attendants are typically classified as Construction Worker Level 2, which covers workers performing duties requiring relevant training or experience including storekeeping and tool management. See our Building and Construction Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a tool store attendant job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do tool store attendants need?

Accepted Answer

Tool store attendants must hold a valid White Card (Construction Induction Card) to work on construction sites in Australia. Computer literacy for operating inventory management systems is highly preferred. Additional beneficial qualifications include a forklift licence for handling larger equipment, First Aid certification, and formal storekeeping or warehousing qualifications.

Question 6

Is a White Card mandatory for tool store attendants?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a White Card (General Construction Induction training) is mandatory for all workers on construction sites in Australia, including tool store attendants, even if they primarily work indoors in the tool store. The White Card demonstrates completion of construction safety induction training and is a legal requirement.

Question 7

Do tool store attendants need a forklift licence?

Accepted Answer

A forklift licence is not always required but is highly desirable and often preferred by employers. Many construction tool stores handle large equipment, machinery parts and heavy materials that require forklift operation. Having a current forklift licence significantly increases employability for tool store attendant roles.

Question 8

What training should tool store attendants receive?

Accepted Answer

Beyond the mandatory White Card, tool store attendants should receive training in inventory management systems, tool inspection and maintenance procedures, workplace health and safety, manual handling, and site-specific equipment protocols. Training in computer systems and storekeeping software is essential for modern tool store management.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent tool store attendants?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your project duration and tool store requirements. Permanent staff provide consistency for long-term projects and ongoing sites, while casuals offer flexibility for short-term projects or peak periods. Many construction businesses maintain a permanent tool store attendant for major sites. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to tool store attendants?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 apply for Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and overtime. Construction projects often require early starts and Saturday work, so penalty rates are common. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for tool store attendants?

Accepted Answer

Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020, minimum engagement periods apply. Tool store attendants typically work standard construction hours aligned with site operations, often starting early (6:00-7:00 AM) to prepare for the day and issue tools before work commences. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a tool store attendant employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, site location, working hours and shifts, White Card verification, safety responsibilities, and inventory accountability procedures. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

What hours do tool store attendants typically work?

Accepted Answer

Tool store attendants typically work construction site hours, often starting early (6:00-7:00 AM) to open the tool store, issue tools and equipment before work begins, and staying until all tools are returned at the end of the day (typically 3:00-4:00 PM). Hours align with site working hours. Using rostering software helps manage schedules effectively.

Question 14

How do tool store attendants track tool accountability?

Accepted Answer

Tool store attendants use various systems including paper-based sign-out sheets, barcode scanning systems, RFID tracking, or specialized tool management software. Workers sign for tools when issued and return them at day end. The attendant is responsible for following up on unreturned or lost tools and maintaining accurate records of all equipment.

Question 15

What breaks are tool store attendants entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020, employees are entitled to paid rest breaks and unpaid meal breaks based on shift length. For construction sites, this typically includes morning tea breaks and lunch breaks. Use break planning tools to manage breaks while ensuring tool store coverage.

Question 16

What responsibilities do tool store attendants have for damaged tools?

Accepted Answer

Tool store attendants must inspect all tools upon return, identify damage or excessive wear, tag damaged tools as out of service, report damage to supervisors, coordinate repairs or replacement, and maintain records of tool condition. They play a crucial role in ensuring workers only use safe, serviceable equipment on site.

Tool store attendant job description