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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Ensure the moving sprinkler irrigation system is prepared for operation
   • Assess staff training needs for carrying out pre-start checks and routine servicing and arrange training for those that require it
   • Program or adjust the irrigation controller to meet the required schedule
   • Develop procedures for adjusting valves and checking filters and emitters
2. Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures
   • Develop start-up procedures for a low volume irrigation system
   • Develop shut down sequence and isolation procedures
   • Install safety or security lock off devices and signage
   • Provide instructions for flushing the system as required
3. Carry out trouble shooting for faults and blockages
   • Arrange access to faulty components and blockages
   • Remove faulty components from the system and repair or dispose of in an environmentally responsible way
   • Select appropriate replaceable components and install
4. Measure performance of a moving sprinkler irrigation system
   • Identify and record variations in pressures
   • Measure and record water flow rates
   • Identify and record variations in water flow and distribution
   • Measure and record pump performance parameters as necessary
   • Measure and record variations in pump performance parameters where relevant
   • Inspect distribution and delivery systems and identify and fix malfunctions in system and record actions
   • Identify and record factors external to the system that may cause interference
5. Review system performance status
   • Record system pressures and variations
   • Record system flow rates and variations
   • Calculate and record distribution uniformity and mean application rates
   • Determine and record watering depth
   • Calculate energy use and water efficiency and compare to industry benchmarks

Range Statement

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Performance Evidence

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:

develop and supervise procedures for starting up, carrying out operational checks and shutting down

measure, interpret and adjust flow rates and pressures

measure output and efficiency of an irrigation system

monitor system effectiveness:

application rates

depth of irrigation

infiltration and runoff

irrigation times

pressure variations and blockages

salinity levels and water quality

soil moisture levels

sprinkler coverage and output

use records to review an irrigation system

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

best practices for reducing environmental impacts of irrigation

component specifications

critical measures for moisture availability:

field capacity

readily available water

wilting point

energy efficiency indicators/ benchmarks for moving sprinkler irrigation:

Application Efficiency

Average Application Rate

Instantaneous Application Rate

environmental hazards of runoff and compaction

environmental impacts of irrigation using water from any ground or underground source

general irrigation methods for moving sprinkler systems

irrigation schedules

main components of moving sprinkler irrigation systems

monitoring soil compaction and drainage

moving sprinkler irrigation technologies

physical soil characteristics such as infiltration rate, water holding capacity and wetted volume in the root zone

pump types used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their output and efficiency ratings

pump types used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their operation

servicing and maintenance of travelling mechanism

soil moisture testing techniques

soil, plant and water relationships

water requirements of plants/crops consistent with sound environmental management

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