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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare for complex 4x4 operations
   • Identify and assess types of water crossings and terrain being accessed for safe operating conditions.
   • Check that 4x4 vehicle being used is appropriate to conditions and operationally effective in line with manufacturer specifications.
   • Identify appropriate range of personal protective equipment (PPE) to be carried for the trip conditions.
   • Establish communication with others and choose required safety mechanisms in line with organisational requirements.
2. Prepare 4x4 vehicle for water crossing
   • Place cover securely across the front of the vehicle when required by water depth.
   • Protect electrical connectors, battery terminals and electrical components.
   • Check wheel hubs to engage/lock position.
   • Select appropriate gear for water crossing.
   • Allow vehicle to cool down before entering water
3. Negotiate water crossing
   • Assess hazards and risks associated with water crossings.
   • Determine safety of water crossing.
   • Establish and select entry and exit points for crossing in line with current flow and risk assessment.
   • Access water crossing to determine depth of water at intended crossing point.
   • Monitor the track continually to identify hazards and assess risks.
   • Perform water crossing by maintaining a constant bow wave.
4. Perform check of vehicle operations on completion of water crossing
   • Drain water from 4x4 vehicle back into the water crossing.
   • Dry brakes off by gentle application while moving.
   • Check engine oils for contamination.
   • Check air cleaner elements for water intrusion and assess air intake operational effectiveness.
   • Check differential and gear box oils after prolonged periods in the water.
5. Operate vehicle in rugged terrain
   • Determine intended route prior to departure.
   • Inspect intended vehicle path prior to negotiation of rugged terrain.
   • Identify potential hazards and risks when operating vehicle in rugged terrain and ensure appropriate response can be applied
   • Inspect, position and secure vehicle load to maximise traction for 4x4 driving.
   • Set vehicle controls in line with manufacturer specifications and for operation in the rugged terrain.
   • Negotiate terrain in line with requirements for specific driving conditions.
6. Recover vehicle from loss of traction while ascending
   • Determine intended route backwards.
   • Use correct brake and engine techniques to reverse vehicle.
   • Ensure vehicle comes to a safe stop.
7. Perform post-trip tasks
   • Notify relevant personnel of trip completion.
   • Carry out maintenance on allocated vehicle.
   • Record and report activity in line with organisational procedures.

Range Statement

Not Applicable

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Performance Evidence

A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy all of the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit. If a specific volume or frequency is not stated below, then evidence must be provided that the following requirements have been performed on at least one occasion:

follow applicable legal and regulatory requirements, and codes of practice relevant to performing complex 4x4 operations

follow organisational policies and procedures relevant to performing complex 4x4 operations

assess the safety and potential hazards of planned water and rugged terrain crossings including consideration of:

assessment of water speed and depth

underwater hazards

debris in water

rocks and other unexpected obstacles

variable water depth and width of crossing

risk of vehicle being swept down the waterway

tidal influences

wet and iced terrain

flooded terrain

fire in vehicle

faulty brakes

leaking fuel

faulty steering mechanism on vehicle

animals and objects in vehicle path

crocodiles and snakes in some areas

windy or foggy sections of terrain

steep slopes

slippery surfaces

land slides

tree limbs

black ice

trailers

safely perform 4x4 operations over rugged terrain and water crossings in line with the conditions and 4x4 operating requirements

select correct gear/range to negotiate terrain

engage and disengage freewheel hubs in line with driving conditions

identify safe locations for entry into and out of a waterway

identify and prepare supplies and resources appropriate to the journey

use correct techniques to safely stop and start on steep terrain

use and maintain relevant tools, machinery and equipment.

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Knowledge Evidence

A person competent in this unit must be able to demonstrate knowledge of:

applicable regulations, standards, codes of practice and established safe practices relevant to the full range of processes when performing complex 4x4 operations

environmental risks and hazards, organisational and site standards, requirements, policies and procedures for performing complex 4x4 operations

road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements of the relevant state or territory

operational knowledge of 4x4 vehicle, including controls, instruments and indicators, and their use

environmental protection requirements relating to 4x4 operations in rugged terrain

organisational and site standards, requirements, policies and procedures for performing complex 4x4 operations

road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements of the relevant state or territory

operational knowledge of 4x4 vehicle, including controls, instruments and indicators and their use

four-wheel drive techniques, including to safely cross water and operate 4x4 vehicle in rugged terrain

vehicle maintenance requirements following water crossings

established communication channels and protocols

vehicle problem identification and common vehicle fault-finding techniques

common vehicle operating problems and appropriate operator response in line with organisational and manufacturer requirements

types of tools and equipment, and procedures for their safe use and maintenance.

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