Got banned from a job site in Portland for using a laser level, still not sure who was right

So last month I'm working on this retaining wall project in Portland, right? The site super sees my laser level and goes off about how real bricklayers use string lines and levels by hand. I mean, I get the tradition argument, but I've been using lasers for like 6 years now and my lines are dead straight. He kicked me off for the day. That cost me about $350 in lost pay. But then my buddy runs his crew with nothing but lasers and he's fine. So which is it? Is the laser level a shortcut or just a smarter tool? Has anyone else caught heat for using newer gear on a job? Or am I the one being stubborn about how I learned the trade? Curious where other folks land on this.

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1 Comment

alice24225d ago

Read the contract before anything else. If it doesn't say "laser levels banned" in writing, that super was just on a power trip. I've been on sites where the foreman hated new gear, but if your work holds up and you pass inspection, that's what matters. You lost a day's pay, so file a complaint with the GC or the union if you're in one, because that's not how you treat a hired hand. Also, keep the laser in your truck next time, pull it out only after you see what the other guys are using. That way you don't get singled out before you even start. And honestly, your buddy getting away with it just means he got a better site or a calmer super, not that you were wrong.