Abstract: This invention relates to a partition block and method of manufacture. According to the invention a generally solid block or like component having a tool engaging recess is manufactured in apparatus comprising a mould box, recess forming means for forming a recess in a face of the block formed in the mould box and tamping means, the arrangement being such that tamping of a composition in the mould box is effected by the tamping means independently of the recess forming means.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tool for lifting a component such as a building block and comprises a support having a contiguous lower abutment surface, a plurality of engaging members extending beneath the support and adapted to be entered into a recess in the component, at least one of the members being movable and a handle means movable with respect to the support and operatively connected with the movable engaging member, so that on lifting the handle the engaging members engage the adjacent wall of the recess with a force proportional to the weight of the component.