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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Determine water quality monitoring program requirements
   • Consult with client to identify scope, objectives and constraints of project and intended use of the data
   • Research and evaluate background information relevant to survey type and site
   • Determine water quality indicators to be measured, frequency and volume of sampling required to meet scope, objectives and constraints of project
   • Establish procedures for data collection, processing and reporting that are consistent with the scope, objectives and constraints of the program and legislative requirements
   • Seek estimates of costs involved and sources of funds for the program
   • Identify and assess work health and safety hazards associated with conducting the sampling program
   • Provide a survey strategy that reflects project requirements, scope, objectives and constraints for discussion and approval
2. Undertake a site analysis
   • Identify and record physical and biological features of the site
   • Identify and record resource management factors contributing to water quality
   • Survey biota, as required, to meet the scope and objectives of the program
   • Identify and evaluate sampling points for safety, accessibility and opportunities for repeatable data collection
3. Plan monitoring program
   • Select suitable sites for repeatable monitoring to obtain representative samples
   • Source laboratory and field equipment for the monitoring program and determine costs
   • Confirm suitability and availability of laboratory and field equipment
   • Confirm surveyor access to site for the duration of the monitoring program
   • Document work health and safety controls and emergency procedures for the program in line with organisational policies
   • Document environmental sustainability policies and procedures and biosecurity measures
   • Document sampling techniques to be used
   • Document methods of data collection, monitoring and field techniques for field operators
   • Present survey schedules and procedures to appropriate personnel and the client for approval
4. Monitor water quality
   • Carry out water quality monitoring tasks in line with plan
   • Transport, store and treat samples with regard to temperature, maximum holding periods and other variables
   • Monitor surveying process for accuracy, compliance with the survey plans and procedures
   • Implement contingency plans when problems arise, whilst continuously assessing and evaluating the plan for errors and inconsistencies
5. Evaluate program
   • Record and save data according to plan requirements
   • Analyse data collected according to industry policies and guidelines and scientific standards
   • Draw outcomes, conclusions or trends from the monitoring program using industry standards for interpretation of water quality data and appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments
   • Seek advice from client as to satisfaction with monitoring program in terms of the process and outcomes
   • Provide report on outcomes to client with recommendations for changes and improvements for any further monitoring activities

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 develop a water quality monitoring program in accordance with legislative and organisational policies. The candidate must also undertake the water quality monitoring.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

establish scope, objectives and constraints and water quality monitoring requirements of the project through consultation with client

undertake research and a site analysis to select suitable monitoring sites

develop the monitoring plan in accordance with project brief and to meet client needs

monitor water quality in accordance with project plan

evaluate the program using data analysis, consultation with client and assessment against program objectives

collect, transport and treat samples in accordance with organisational guidelines and policies

analyse data according to scientific standards and organisational policies and guidelines

apply work health and safety practices in the context of own work

incorporate biosecurity into monitoring program

apply sustainability practices in monitoring program

draw conclusions based on appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments

produce written reports to enterprise standards

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

water quality principles and factors including:

hydrological cycle

aquatic ecology

water quality indicators

chemical principles

catchment and coastal management issues contributing to surface and groundwater quality

standard techniques to assess ecological health of aquatic sites

mathematical sampling techniques

analytical techniques appropriate to water quality monitoring

data storage and management

accepted scientific processes and standards for data collection and analysis

statistical analysis

hazard identification, assessment and control

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