Assessor Resource

AHCIRG335
Operate and maintain moving irrigation system

Assessment tool

Version 1.0
Issue Date: March 2024


This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to install, operate and maintain movable irrigation systems.

It applies to individuals who take responsibility for own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.

No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.

You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)



Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

Element

Performance criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Install a moving sprinkler irrigation system

1.1 Select required materials, tools, equipment and machinery

1.2 Join span pipes with correctly tensioned bolts

1.3 Connect V-jack trusses in sequence to bow the span

1.4 Connect goose necks and hose connectors

1.5 Fit pre-cut drop hoses and connect sprinklers

2. Complete assembly of moving sprinkler components

2.1 Assemble sprinklers, pressure regulators and hose directors

2.2 Fit gear box and control panel

2.3 Fit and tension wheels

3. Assist in commissioning a moving sprinkler irrigation system

3.1 Connect and start pumping system and flush as required

3.2 Calibrate testing and monitoring equipment to manufacturer specifications

4. Operate the system

4.1 Prime pumps, open or close valves and controls and begin the start-up sequence

4.2 Check emitter spacing

4.3 Monitor and service the transport mechanism

4.4 Check the irrigation controller for programming and efficiency

4.5 Correct or repair all malfunctions, leaks and blockages

5. Monitor the irrigation operation

5.1 Implement the irrigation schedule and monitor soil profile for wetting

5.2 Measure sprinkler performance using catch cans

5.3 Measure flow rates using containers of known volume

5.4 Measure operating pressures using pressure gauges

5.5 Check the irrigated area for wheel ruts and other signs of waterlogging

6. Carry out system maintenance

6.1 Record damage and blockages with contaminants by damage type, location and the section of the system affected

6.2 Record and report damaged or faulty pumps, valves, sprinklers, electrical components and computer control systems and take action to effect repairs

6.3 Measure outlet pressure, flow rate and energy use and record on a regular basis

6.4 Inspect and maintain drive mechanism, frames and trusses

6.5 Implement end of season maintenance procedures

6.6 Implement routine and preventative maintenance procedures

6.7 Implement storage procedures for irrigation components

7. Shut down the system in response to irrigation indicators

7.1 Apply water for sufficient time to achieve required soil moisture levels and allowing for weather conditions

7.2 Shut down system components and drain

7.3 Check drainage and treatment systems

7.4 Record and report irrigation activities

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

change engine oil and filter

check all bolts for correct torques

check for malfunctioning sprinklers

check injection pump and safety equipment operation

complete regular and end of season maintenance tasks

fit control panel and wheels

grease drive shafts on pump and motor

inspect lift base and arms for any stress marks or cracks

measure and interpret flow rates and pressures

monitor system effectiveness

operate pressure and flow testing equipment

read and follow operations manuals and irrigation schedules

shut down, clean equipment and dispose of waste

start-up system and carry out operational checks

take and record measurements of output and efficiency

tension span pipes with V-jack trusses

use control systems

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

principles and practices of moving irrigation system installation, operation and maintenance

behaviour of water on varying terrain and soil types

calculations used when installing irrigation systems

common operational and maintenance problems

components of a moving sprinkler irrigation system and their maintenance requirements

installing a moving sprinkler irrigation

irrigation methods for moving sprinkler systems

maintenance requirements for moving sprinkler systems

monitoring soil compaction and drainage

moving sprinkler irrigation maintenance

pump used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their operation

shutdown sequence

soil water retention testing techniques

soil, plant and water relationships

water quality and water filtration techniques

water requirements of plants and crops consistent with sound environmental management

Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.


Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assingnment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)


Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Element

Performance criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Install a moving sprinkler irrigation system

1.1 Select required materials, tools, equipment and machinery

1.2 Join span pipes with correctly tensioned bolts

1.3 Connect V-jack trusses in sequence to bow the span

1.4 Connect goose necks and hose connectors

1.5 Fit pre-cut drop hoses and connect sprinklers

2. Complete assembly of moving sprinkler components

2.1 Assemble sprinklers, pressure regulators and hose directors

2.2 Fit gear box and control panel

2.3 Fit and tension wheels

3. Assist in commissioning a moving sprinkler irrigation system

3.1 Connect and start pumping system and flush as required

3.2 Calibrate testing and monitoring equipment to manufacturer specifications

4. Operate the system

4.1 Prime pumps, open or close valves and controls and begin the start-up sequence

4.2 Check emitter spacing

4.3 Monitor and service the transport mechanism

4.4 Check the irrigation controller for programming and efficiency

4.5 Correct or repair all malfunctions, leaks and blockages

5. Monitor the irrigation operation

5.1 Implement the irrigation schedule and monitor soil profile for wetting

5.2 Measure sprinkler performance using catch cans

5.3 Measure flow rates using containers of known volume

5.4 Measure operating pressures using pressure gauges

5.5 Check the irrigated area for wheel ruts and other signs of waterlogging

6. Carry out system maintenance

6.1 Record damage and blockages with contaminants by damage type, location and the section of the system affected

6.2 Record and report damaged or faulty pumps, valves, sprinklers, electrical components and computer control systems and take action to effect repairs

6.3 Measure outlet pressure, flow rate and energy use and record on a regular basis

6.4 Inspect and maintain drive mechanism, frames and trusses

6.5 Implement end of season maintenance procedures

6.6 Implement routine and preventative maintenance procedures

6.7 Implement storage procedures for irrigation components

7. Shut down the system in response to irrigation indicators

7.1 Apply water for sufficient time to achieve required soil moisture levels and allowing for weather conditions

7.2 Shut down system components and drain

7.3 Check drainage and treatment systems

7.4 Record and report irrigation activities

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

change engine oil and filter

check all bolts for correct torques

check for malfunctioning sprinklers

check injection pump and safety equipment operation

complete regular and end of season maintenance tasks

fit control panel and wheels

grease drive shafts on pump and motor

inspect lift base and arms for any stress marks or cracks

measure and interpret flow rates and pressures

monitor system effectiveness

operate pressure and flow testing equipment

read and follow operations manuals and irrigation schedules

shut down, clean equipment and dispose of waste

start-up system and carry out operational checks

take and record measurements of output and efficiency

tension span pipes with V-jack trusses

use control systems

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

principles and practices of moving irrigation system installation, operation and maintenance

behaviour of water on varying terrain and soil types

calculations used when installing irrigation systems

common operational and maintenance problems

components of a moving sprinkler irrigation system and their maintenance requirements

installing a moving sprinkler irrigation

irrigation methods for moving sprinkler systems

maintenance requirements for moving sprinkler systems

monitoring soil compaction and drainage

moving sprinkler irrigation maintenance

pump used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their operation

shutdown sequence

soil water retention testing techniques

soil, plant and water relationships

water quality and water filtration techniques

water requirements of plants and crops consistent with sound environmental management

Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Select required materials, tools, equipment and machinery 
Join span pipes with correctly tensioned bolts 
Connect V-jack trusses in sequence to bow the span 
Connect goose necks and hose connectors 
Fit pre-cut drop hoses and connect sprinklers 
Assemble sprinklers, pressure regulators and hose directors 
Fit gear box and control panel 
Fit and tension wheels 
Connect and start pumping system and flush as required 
Calibrate testing and monitoring equipment to manufacturer specifications 
Prime pumps, open or close valves and controls and begin the start-up sequence 
Check emitter spacing 
Monitor and service the transport mechanism 
Check the irrigation controller for programming and efficiency 
Correct or repair all malfunctions, leaks and blockages 
Implement the irrigation schedule and monitor soil profile for wetting 
Measure sprinkler performance using catch cans 
Measure flow rates using containers of known volume 
Measure operating pressures using pressure gauges 
Check the irrigated area for wheel ruts and other signs of waterlogging 
Record damage and blockages with contaminants by damage type, location and the section of the system affected 
Record and report damaged or faulty pumps, valves, sprinklers, electrical components and computer control systems and take action to effect repairs 
Measure outlet pressure, flow rate and energy use and record on a regular basis 
Inspect and maintain drive mechanism, frames and trusses 
Implement end of season maintenance procedures 
Implement routine and preventative maintenance procedures 
Implement storage procedures for irrigation components 
Apply water for sufficient time to achieve required soil moisture levels and allowing for weather conditions 
Shut down system components and drain 
Check drainage and treatment systems 
Record and report irrigation activities 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

AHCIRG335 - Operate and maintain moving irrigation system
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:


Assessment Record Sheet

AHCIRG335 - Operate and maintain moving irrigation system

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: