Assessor Resource

RIICTC303D
Excavate tunnel by machine

Assessment tool

Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024


This unit describes a participant’s skills and knowledge required to excavate tunnel by machine in Civil Construction.

This unit is appropriate for those working in operational roles.

Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements that apply to this unit can vary between states, territories, and Industry sectors. Relevant information must be sourced prior to application of the unit.

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.

1. Plan and prepare to excavate tunnel by machine

1.1 Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant

1.2 Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding

1.3 Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements

1.4 Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities

1.5 Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis

1.6 Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks

1.7 Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks

1.8 Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency

2. Set up for machine operation

2.1 Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements

2.2 Locate and set up machine and equipment

2.3 Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures

2.4 Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions

2.5 Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation

2.6 Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule

3. Excavate tunnel and control dust and water

3.1 Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements

3.2 Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust

3.3 Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation

3.4 Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels

4. Control mucking

4.1 Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system

4.2 Operate mucking attachments safely

4.3 Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system

4.4 Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures

4.5 Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area

5. Clean up

5.1 Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials

5.2 Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment

5.3 Carry out housekeeping activities

Evidence is required to be collected that demonstrates a candidate’s competency in this unit. Evidence must be relevant to the roles within this sector’s work operations and satisfy all of the requirements of the performance criteria of this unit and include evidence that the candidate:

locates and applies relevant documentation, policies and procedures

implements the requirements, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective and efficient completion of excavate tunnel by machine including:

applying equipment/manual handling techniques

selecting and using relevant tools and equipment

interpreting engineering drawings

works effectively with others to undertake and complete the tunnel excavation by machine that meets all of the required outcomes including:

organising work activities to meet all task requirements

communicating clearly and concisely with others to receive and clarify work instructions

using a range of communication techniques and systems such as signage to advise others of work activity and exclusion zone

demonstrates completion of excavating tunnels by machines that safely, effectively and efficiently meets all of the required outcomes on more than one (1) occasion including:

completion of a minimum of a twenty (20) lineal metre section of tunnel

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of tunnel excavation by machine through:

applying construction principles

identifying equipment types, characteristics, technical capabilities and limitations

complying with project quality requirements

identifying and using civil construction terminology

complying with site isolation and traffic control responsibilities and authorities

complying with safety data sheets and materials handling methods

being prepared for fire/accident/emergency

An assessor of this unit must satisfy the requirements of the NVR/AQTF or their successors; and Industry regulations for certification and licensing; and,

this unit must be assessed in the context of this sector’s work environment; and,

this unit must be assessed in compliance with relevant legislation/regulation and using policies, procedures, processes and operational manuals directly related to the industry sector for which it is being assessed; and,

assessment may be conducted in conjunction with the assessment of other Units of Competency; and,

assessment must confirm consistent performance can be applied in a range of relevant workplace circumstances; and,

assessors must demonstrate the performance evidence, and knowledge evidence as outlined in this Unit of Competency, and through the minimum years of current* work experience specified below in an Industry sector relevant to the outcomes of the unit; or,

where the assessor does not meet experience requirements a co-assessment or partnership arrangement must exist between the qualified assessor and an Industry subject matter expert. The Industry subject matter expert should hold the unit being assessed (or an equivalent unit) and/or demonstrate equivalence of skills and knowledge at the unit level. An Industry technical expert must also demonstrate skills and knowledge from the minimum years of current work experience specified below in the Industry sector, including time spent in roles related to the unit being assessed; and,

assessor and Industry subject matter expert requirements differ depending on the Australian Qualifications Framework Level (AQF) of the qualification being assessed and/or Industry Sector as follows:

Industry sector

AQF** Level

Required assessor or Industry subject matter expert experience

Drilling, Metalliferous Mining, Coal Mining, Extractive (Quarrying) and Civil Construction

1

1 Year

2

2 Years

Drilling, Coal Mining and Extractive (Quarrying)

3-6

3 Years

Metalliferous Mining and Civil Construction

3-6

5 Years

Other sectors

Where this Unit is being assessed outside of the Resources and Infrastructure Sectors assessor and/or Industry subject matter expert experience should be in-line with industry standards for the sector in which it is being assessed and where no Industry standard is specified should comply with any relevant regulation.

*Assessors can demonstrate current work experience through employment within Industry in a role relevant to the outcomes of the Unit; or, for external assessors this can be demonstrated through exposure to Industry by conducting frequent site assessments across various locations.

**Where a unit is being delivered outside of a Qualification the first numeric character in the Unit code should be considered to indicate the AQF level


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.

1. Plan and prepare to excavate tunnel by machine

1.1 Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant

1.2 Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding

1.3 Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements

1.4 Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities

1.5 Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis

1.6 Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks

1.7 Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks

1.8 Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency

2. Set up for machine operation

2.1 Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements

2.2 Locate and set up machine and equipment

2.3 Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures

2.4 Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions

2.5 Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation

2.6 Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule

3. Excavate tunnel and control dust and water

3.1 Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements

3.2 Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust

3.3 Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation

3.4 Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels

4. Control mucking

4.1 Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system

4.2 Operate mucking attachments safely

4.3 Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system

4.4 Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures

4.5 Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area

5. Clean up

5.1 Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials

5.2 Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment

5.3 Carry out housekeeping activities

Evidence is required to be collected that demonstrates a candidate’s competency in this unit. Evidence must be relevant to the roles within this sector’s work operations and satisfy all of the requirements of the performance criteria of this unit and include evidence that the candidate:

locates and applies relevant documentation, policies and procedures

implements the requirements, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective and efficient completion of excavate tunnel by machine including:

applying equipment/manual handling techniques

selecting and using relevant tools and equipment

interpreting engineering drawings

works effectively with others to undertake and complete the tunnel excavation by machine that meets all of the required outcomes including:

organising work activities to meet all task requirements

communicating clearly and concisely with others to receive and clarify work instructions

using a range of communication techniques and systems such as signage to advise others of work activity and exclusion zone

demonstrates completion of excavating tunnels by machines that safely, effectively and efficiently meets all of the required outcomes on more than one (1) occasion including:

completion of a minimum of a twenty (20) lineal metre section of tunnel

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of tunnel excavation by machine through:

applying construction principles

identifying equipment types, characteristics, technical capabilities and limitations

complying with project quality requirements

identifying and using civil construction terminology

complying with site isolation and traffic control responsibilities and authorities

complying with safety data sheets and materials handling methods

being prepared for fire/accident/emergency

An assessor of this unit must satisfy the requirements of the NVR/AQTF or their successors; and Industry regulations for certification and licensing; and,

this unit must be assessed in the context of this sector’s work environment; and,

this unit must be assessed in compliance with relevant legislation/regulation and using policies, procedures, processes and operational manuals directly related to the industry sector for which it is being assessed; and,

assessment may be conducted in conjunction with the assessment of other Units of Competency; and,

assessment must confirm consistent performance can be applied in a range of relevant workplace circumstances; and,

assessors must demonstrate the performance evidence, and knowledge evidence as outlined in this Unit of Competency, and through the minimum years of current* work experience specified below in an Industry sector relevant to the outcomes of the unit; or,

where the assessor does not meet experience requirements a co-assessment or partnership arrangement must exist between the qualified assessor and an Industry subject matter expert. The Industry subject matter expert should hold the unit being assessed (or an equivalent unit) and/or demonstrate equivalence of skills and knowledge at the unit level. An Industry technical expert must also demonstrate skills and knowledge from the minimum years of current work experience specified below in the Industry sector, including time spent in roles related to the unit being assessed; and,

assessor and Industry subject matter expert requirements differ depending on the Australian Qualifications Framework Level (AQF) of the qualification being assessed and/or Industry Sector as follows:

Industry sector

AQF** Level

Required assessor or Industry subject matter expert experience

Drilling, Metalliferous Mining, Coal Mining, Extractive (Quarrying) and Civil Construction

1

1 Year

2

2 Years

Drilling, Coal Mining and Extractive (Quarrying)

3-6

3 Years

Metalliferous Mining and Civil Construction

3-6

5 Years

Other sectors

Where this Unit is being assessed outside of the Resources and Infrastructure Sectors assessor and/or Industry subject matter expert experience should be in-line with industry standards for the sector in which it is being assessed and where no Industry standard is specified should comply with any relevant regulation.

*Assessors can demonstrate current work experience through employment within Industry in a role relevant to the outcomes of the Unit; or, for external assessors this can be demonstrated through exposure to Industry by conducting frequent site assessments across various locations.

**Where a unit is being delivered outside of a Qualification the first numeric character in the Unit code should be considered to indicate the AQF level

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
Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant 
Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding 
Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements 
Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities 
Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis 
Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks 
Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks 
Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency 
Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements 
Locate and set up machine and equipment 
Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures 
Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions 
Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation 
Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule 
Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements 
Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust 
Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation 
Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels 
Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system 
Operate mucking attachments safely 
Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system 
Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures 
Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area 
Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials 
Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment 
Carry out housekeeping activities 
Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant 
Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding 
Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements 
Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities 
Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis 
Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks 
Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks 
Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency 
Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements 
Locate and set up machine and equipment 
Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures 
Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions 
Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation 
Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule 
Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements 
Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust 
Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation 
Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels 
Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system 
Operate mucking attachments safely 
Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system 
Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures 
Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area 
Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials 
Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment 
Carry out housekeeping activities 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

RIICTC303D - Excavate tunnel by machine
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

RIICTC303D - Excavate tunnel by machine

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: