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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Plan and prepare to assist horizontal directional drilling operations
   • Obtain, read and confirm work requirements
   • Access, interpret and apply assist horizontal directional drilling documentation and confirm work activity is compliant
   • Identify and minimise environmental issues and potential hazards, and assess and address risks within scope of own role and according to workplace procedures
   • Select and wear personal protective equipment required for work activities
   • Communicate with other personnel on site as required and confirm briefings and handover details are communicated and received
   • Load, unload and move tools and equipment according to job and safety requirements
   • Identify safety precautions for handling potentially contaminated spoil
   • Assist in the use of locating equipment for locating underground utilities
   • Obtain and interpret emergency procedures and identify steps in case of fire, accident and other emergencies
2. Support the horizontal directional drilling process
   • Fit and remove bits, reamers and stabilizers as required to and from the drill string
   • Lay out drill string in readiness for tripping and drilling as required
   • Add and remove drill rod to and from drill string as required
   • Inspect drill rod, bits, threads and associated equipment for damage
   • Continually monitor hazards and risks, and confirm safety of self, other personnel, plant and equipment
   • Assist in use of guidance or tracking equipment
3. Handle, mix and test drilling fluids
   • Check labels and read and interpret safety information/hazard codes
   • Mix drilling fluid according to job requirements
   • Carry out storage of drilling mud components and additives
   • Perform basic tests on the fluid and record and report the results as required
4. Carry out basic maintenance of tools and equipment
   • Perform inspections and routine checks on ancillary equipment
   • Perform inspections and basic maintenance rod handling equipment
   • Complete housekeeping activities to workplace requirements
   • Process records according to workplace procedures

Performance Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate the ability to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including evidence of the ability to:

assist horizontal directional drilling on at least two occasions, including:

fitting and removing bits, reamers and stabilizers as required to and from drill string

laying out drill string in readiness for tripping or drilling

adding and removing drill rod from drill string

inspecting drill rod, bits, threads and associated equipment for damage

assisting in the use of guidance or tracking equipment

identifying and mixing drill fluids.

During the above, the candidate must:

locate and apply documentation required for assisting horizontal directional drilling

implement the requirements, procedures and techniques for assisting with horizontal directional drilling, including:

applying safe manual handling practices

operating ancillary equipment

wearing personal protective equipment

complying with basic vehicle cleaning procedures

inspecting and monitoring equipment

carrying out operator maintenance

work with others to assist horizontal directional drilling that meets required outcomes, including:

complying with reporting requirements and procedures

communicating with others to receive and clarify work instructions

communicating with others to meet coordination requirements prior to commencing and during work activities.

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must be able to demonstrate knowledge to complete the tasks outlined in the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit, including knowledge of:

key policies, procedures and established requirements for assisting horizontal directional drilling, including those for:

work health and safety

emergencies

relevant environmental practices

assisting the locating of underground utilities

mixing, storing and testing drilling fluids

complying with safety data sheets (SDS)

handling and inspecting drilling equipment

inspecting and maintaining rod handling equipment

refuelling vehicles, drill rigs and ancillary equipment

housekeeping

equipment types and functions

drilling team roles and objectives.

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