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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Establish sites for sampling
  2. Undertake sampling and sample despatch
  3. Establish and report results
  4. Raise and action issues of concern requiring strategic response

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit

Required Skills

preparing collecting labelling and preserving water samples

disposing of waste and spent samples correctly

producing reports and logs

planning work activities

working effectively as part of a team

performing taskrelated calculations

identifying and obtaining resources

following plans and instructions

applying procedures and standards

communicating work requirements

using literacy skills in regard to verbal and written communication in the workplace

using personal protective equipment

maintaining databases

compiling reports

Required Knowledge

types and purposes of water samples

procedures and techniques for water sampling

water sample preparation including

prevention of contamination

volume of sample

appropriate containers

preservation

location selection

location maintenance

equipment

transportation

documentation procedures for water samples

chain of custody issues pertinent to water quality investigations such as outbreaks of Legionella

disposal procedures for waste and excess water samples

taskrelated calculations

legislative and organisational policies procedures and standards

communication systems

work planning processes

effects of weather and conditions on work

sampling techniques and protection protocols

relevant local area geography

relevant enterprise licensing regulations

Evidence Required

Overview of assessment requirements

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the elements to the required performance level detailed in the performance criteria The units skill and knowledge requirements must also be demonstrated For example knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered

The demonstrated ability to

take samples from agreed and valid testing sites

ensure sampling methods are in accordance with appropriate guidelines

ensure sampling procedures avoid risk of contamination or misreporting

undertake analysis in accordance with policy and procedures

raise concerns to ensure appropriate response

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated workplace environment

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested

observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies

written and oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documentation

thirdparty reports from experienced practitioners

completion of selfpaced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance

Evidence will need to be gathered over a period of time across a range of variables

Resource implications

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that provides the following resources

relevant legislation guidelines council public health plan agreements and communication procedures

water sampling equipment and sites

test results


Range Statement

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Water sampling sites may include:

water supplies

watercourses

lakes and beaches

swimming pools and spas

drainage and treatment outlets

cooling towers

Site conditions may include:

water levels

tides

wind

seasonal and other conditions

Equipment may include:

protective equipment

sample bottles

frames and tubes

dip tubes

automatic samplers

Samples may include:

programmed samples

ad hoc samples taken in response to a concern or complaint

grab, composite or flow-weighted composite samples for:

microbiological testing

testing for chemical and physical characteristics

grab, integrated or concentrated samples for blue-green algae:

identification

enumeration

toxicity testing

Sampling procedures must be conducted using consistent and valid methodology, regarding:

sterile containers

location

protection and refrigeration

labelling

storage

safe despatch

record of activity

Recording may include:

word processing

spreadsheets

maintaining databases

diary keeping

storage and backup of records

Council guidelines may include:

public health plan

procedures

legislation

environmental and sustainable practices

joint agency agreements or protocols