Before making a hole, establish what may be behind the surface and whether you have permission to alter it. Cables, pipes and hazardous materials can be hidden in an ordinary-looking wall. A pin, awl or small exploratory hole can still damage them.

Use reliable construction information, visible service clues, the opposite face and suitable detection within its manual’s limits. A detector does not guarantee clearance. Suspected asbestos or another unresolved material hazard means no disturbance and appropriate specialist advice.

This course’s first practical project uses a known timber practice piece on a stable bench. Heavy, overhead or safety-critical mounting, unknown wall construction and work requiring specialist controls are outside that task. If no suitable setup is available, complete the planning exercise and keep the practical attempt pending.