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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Plan and prepare to excavate tunnel by machine
   • Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant
   • Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding
   • Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements
   • Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities
   • Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis
   • Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks
   • Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks
   • Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency
2. Set up for machine operation
   • Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements
   • Locate and set up machine and equipment
   • Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures
   • Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions
   • Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation
   • Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule
3. Excavate tunnel and control dust and water
   • Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements
   • Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust
   • Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation
   • Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels
4. Control mucking
   • Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system
   • Operate mucking attachments safely
   • Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system
   • Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures
   • Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area
5. Clean up
   • Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials
   • Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment
   • Carry out housekeeping activities
6. Plan and prepare to excavate tunnel by machine
   • Access, interpret and apply excavate tunnel by machine documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant
   • Obtain, interpret, clarify and confirm work instructions before proceeding
   • Identify, obtain and implement the traffic signage requirements
   • Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for work activities
   • Identify and assess ground conditions from engineers’ survey analysis
   • Select and check for faults plant, tools and equipment to carry out tasks
   • Identify, address and report environmental issues, potential hazards and risks
   • Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency
7. Set up for machine operation
   • Devise and follow production schedules consistent with job requirements
   • Locate and set up machine and equipment
   • Carry out pre-start, start-up, park up, shutdown and secure equipment procedures
   • Adjust machine and attachments for terrain, rock and ground conditions
   • Drive, operate machine and use controls to produce smooth and efficient operation
   • Complete operator maintenance and servicing of machine and equipment to schedule
8. Excavate tunnel and control dust and water
   • Excavate tunnel to shape required by specification according to laser/line levels and measurements
   • Incorporate dust suppression methods with machine cutting operations to control dust
   • Operate and maintain dust extraction systems to maximum efficiency during excavation
   • Remove excess water by operating pumping or drainage system to maintain minimal surface water levels
9. Control mucking
   • Set up and align conveyor/mucking system to spoil system
   • Operate mucking attachments safely
   • Maintain dust extraction system in operation along conveyor or mucking system
   • Remove spoil in accordance with planned operating procedures
   • Direct trucks safely to and from mucking area
   • Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials
   • Clean, check, maintain and store plant, tools and equipment
   • Carry out housekeeping activities

Performance Evidence

Evidence is required to be collected that demonstrates a candidate’s competency in this unit. Evidence must be relevant to the roles within this sector’s work operations and satisfy all of the requirements of the performance criteria of this unit and include evidence that the candidate:

locates and applies relevant documentation, policies and procedures

implements the requirements, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective and efficient completion of excavate tunnel by machine including:

applying equipment/manual handling techniques

selecting and using relevant tools and equipment

interpreting engineering drawings

works effectively with others to undertake and complete the tunnel excavation by machine that meets all of the required outcomes including:

organising work activities to meet all task requirements

communicating clearly and concisely with others to receive and clarify work instructions

using a range of communication techniques and systems such as signage to advise others of work activity and exclusion zone

demonstrates completion of excavating tunnels by machines that safely, effectively and efficiently meets all of the required outcomes on more than one (1) occasion including:

completion of a minimum of a twenty (20) lineal metre section of tunnel

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of tunnel excavation by machine through:

applying construction principles

identifying equipment types, characteristics, technical capabilities and limitations

complying with project quality requirements

identifying and using civil construction terminology

complying with site isolation and traffic control responsibilities and authorities

complying with safety data sheets and materials handling methods

being prepared for fire/accident/emergency

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