What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?

Overall competence in undertaking stump removal requires evidence that a person working in a horticultural environment is aware of the procedures and methods that are used to undertake stump removal, and is confident in applying these procedures. Skills and knowledge relating to the task, such as operating powered machinery and hand tools, interpreting site and service plans, identifying and minimising hazards, and maintaining clean and safe work areas is also required when undertaking stump removal.

The skills and knowledge required to undertake stump removal must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, this could include different situations, tree species and degrees of site access.

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

manufacturer guidelines for operating stump grinding machinery

environmental implications of removal activities including run off, drainage, salinity and soil erosion, and soil disturbance

removal practices associated with different soil types

the effect of adverse outdoor climatic conditions (e.g. rain, hail, or wind), which may prevent or impede removal operations.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required. These include the ability to:

prepare for stump removal operations

undertake removal operations

complete stump removal operations.

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.

1. How can communication of ideas and information (1) be applied?

Information about specific tasks associated with the job, such as work completion and hazards encountered, may be communicated to work colleagues and the supervisor.

2. How can information be collected, analysed and organised (1)?

Information such as removal techniques, site and service plans, and appropriate tools and equipment should be discussed with the supervisor and work team members.

3. How are activities planned and organised (1)?

Pre-operational checks and organisation of all tools, equipment and materials should be arranged before removal begins. Work schedules, location of services, site plans and personnel involved should also be arranged before removal activities begin.

4. How can team work (1) be applied?

Undertaking stump removal may involve working with other members of a team to complete the removal program.

5. How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques (1) be applied?

Mathematical techniques may be applied when calculating plan dimensions, and depth and volume of removal holes.

6. How can problem-solving skills (1) be applied?

Problems relating to removal techniques, processes, the removal area, tools and equipment, workplace safety, other team members, environmental issues and interruption of removal program may require problem-solving.

7. How can the use of technology (1) be applied?

Technology such as horticultural hand tools and equipment including stump grinders may be used in removal operations.

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one?

This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function.

There is essential information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed, in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package. All users of these competency standards must have access to the Assessment Guidelines. Further advice may also be sought from the relevant sector booklet.

Range of Variables

The Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in particular training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available

What workplace information may be relevant to stump removal operations?

Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), work notes, manufacturers instructions, site and location plans, removal plans and specifications, waste disposal, recycling and re-use guidelines, or verbal directions from manager, supervisor, or senior operator.

What services may need to be located?

Services may include power (electricity), water supply, irrigation, stormwater, drainage, gas and telecommunications.

What tools andequipment may be used to undertake stump removal?

Tools and equipment may include axe, spade, shovel, crowbar, hand or powered winches, hand tools, stump grinding machine, chainsaw, and safety signs and/or barriers.

What OHS hazards may apply to stump removal operations?

OHS hazards may include, flying debris, use of sharp tools and equipment, moving machinery parts, manual handling, noise, disturbance of underground services, holes, uneven surfaces, and faulty tools and equipment.

What PPE may be needed to remove stumps?

PPE may include boots, overalls, gloves, hard hats, hearing protection, and face shields.

What OHS requirements may be relevant to this standard?

Procedures may include appropriate use of personal protective clothing and equipment, safe operation of machinery and equipment, correct manual handling techniques, recognising and reporting problems to the supervisor, erection of safety signs and barriers, and maintenance and storage of tools and equipment.

What tasks may be undertaken to maintain a clean and safe work area?

Tasks may include cleaning away (storing or stacking neatly) equipment, disabling machinery after use, and clearing and disposing of plant and equipment debris.

What records may apply to this standard?

Workplace records may include date stump removal carried out, time spent on operation, and problems arising.

For more information on contexts, environment and variables for training and assessment, refer to the Sector Booklet.