Elements and Performance Criteria
- Carry out pre-start checks
- Checks of water, power, fuel and lubricants ensure that all are available and the control system is operational
- Pumps are primed, if necessary, and gates and controls are open or closed in accordance with enterprise procedures
- Pipes, system equipment and outlets are positioned and set up in accordance with enterprise standards and OHS requirements
- Operate and monitor the surface irrigation system
- Syphons and other delivery mechanisms are primed and started in accordance with enterprise procedures
- Start up sequence is implemented in accordance with operations manual and water levels, and pressure built up slowly as directed
- Pressure at the headworks and control valves is checked
- Water is distributed evenly to the targeted areas with minimal wastage and run-off
- Area is irrigated in accordance with enterprise procedures, and time lag between shut down and end of watering is observed to minimise run-off and deep percolation
- All malfunctions, leaks, damage to water courses and blockages are corrected or repaired immediately and reported in accordance with enterprise procedures
- Measure and interpret water levels, flow rates and volume of water used
- Monitor drainage and tailwater systems
- Shut down surface irrigation in response to irrigation indicators