Assessor Resource
PMAOPS210B
Operate particulates handling equipment
Assessment tool
Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024
In this competency the operator would control the conveyor systems transporting particulates into or out of storage (e.g. silos, stockpiles). This means setting up, starting and stopping mechanical or pneumatic conveyor systems and their feeder systems (if any) to convey the materials from one point to another (e.g. between storage units, from storage to packing area). During the process the operator would monitor the operations and take appropriate action to keep particulates moving correctly. This could include removing blockages and preventing rat holing or bridging in hoppers/silos.
This also requires the operator to recognise indications of potential problems with the equipment and to take appropriate and timely remedial action. The operator would carry out minor maintenance according to procedures, or report maintenance requirements outside the operator's level of ability.
The operator would also manage the particulates storage facilities. This includes:
transferring stock into, out of or between storage units
making effective use of the available storage capacity
monitoring the quality, quantity and location of stock
supplying customers (internal or external) with the correct quality and quantity of stock
identifying and controlling hazards related to particulates handling equipment and surrounding areas.
Generally the operator would be part of a team during start up and shut down procedures and would be expected to be capable of demonstrating competence in all parts of this unit. At all times they would be liaising and cooperating with other members of the team.
Should this be a complex storage facility see PMAOPS309B Operate particulates handling_storage equipment.
This competency covers the operation of the range of equipment used to store and convey particulate solids. This competency is typically performed by many operators in a solids handling plant and is often a starting point for operators to learn the operation of the plant as a whole. It covers items of equipment such as mechanical conveyor systems (including feeders), and/or pneumatic conveyor systems and storage equipment such as hoppers and silos or stockpiles.
You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)