Quarry workers are fundamental to all stone construction projects. They cut the rock in quarries in order to extract the stone used for the construction, starting with the foundations and culminating in the sculpted gables.
Two types of extraction techniques are used to remove the stone in quarries. The "crushing" of rock which is used mainly as a base for mortar and concrete is the most common type of extraction. A much more precise extraction method is required for the “block-cutting” of ornamental stone. Only ornamental stone is used in the restoration of ancient monuments.
The quarry workers' knowledge of stone is combined with a capacity to manage the risks associated with extraction. A perfect mastery of safety rules is essential for the cutting, digging and boring operations conducted using machines and even explosives. Quarry workers work in the field in open-pit quarries.
On the Notre-Dame de Paris site
Knowledge of rock and the ability to select the best stone are key to the cathedral’s restoration. However, quarry workers do not work directly at Notre-Dame.
Collapsed and fire-damaged vaulted ceilings need to be reconstructed. The biggest challenge therefore consists in finding rock similar to that used in the 13th century.
Samples extracted from different quarries were analyzed. Accompanied by researchers and specialized engineers, the contracting authority selected stone that most closely resembled the original blocks. The composition, resistance and aesthetic aspects of the new stone is similar to the elements replaced.
The Notre-Dame site is supplied directly by the selected quarries where quarry workers are responsible for extracting and supplying the stone to the stonecutters.
How to become a quarry worker?
Quarry workers can begin their training in high school by studying for a CAP diploma in extractive industries.
While this diploma is not required in order to become a quarry worker, it is nevertheless recommended in order to progress more rapidly in the trade.
Quarry workers complete their training in the field by acquiring the different licenses for operating site machinery. For team leaders, a certificate for handling explosives (blast operation certificate) may also be required in aggregate-extraction quarries.
Main visual © Patrick Zachmann / Magnum Photos
