Range of VariablesThe Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available |
What weeds may be relevant to this standard? | These may include weeds which: present a potential risk for the enterprise, industry or environment.are notifiable to authorities.are part of a local, regional, State or national strategy. |
What beneficial organisms may be relevant to this standard? | These may include volunteer or cultivated plants that out-compete the weed, insects and other non-vertebrates, and microorganisms that attack the weed. |
What control measures may be employed as part of an IPM program? | These may include targeted chemical application, the application of non-chemical controls including organically or naturally ingredient based sprays, controlled release of predatory organisms, or the application of cultural control methods including removal and disposal of weeds. |
What tools, equipment and machinery may be required? | Standard horticultural tools such as gardening implements, mechanised and manually operated spray applicators and cultivators, tractors and trailed equipment may be required. Monitoring equipment for the implementation of an IPM program may include insect traps, soil, fertiliser and plant tissue test kits and sampling equipment. |
What OHS hazards may be associated with this standard? | Hazards may include chemicals and hazardous substances, manual handling, operating machinery tools and equipment, noise, dust, solar radiation, falls and tripping. |
What PPE may be included? | PPE may include hat, boots, overalls, gloves, goggles, respirator or face mask, hearing protection, sunscreen lotion. |
What environmental implications may be associated with controlling weeds? | Beneficial environmental impacts may occur where reduced and informed targeting of chemicals, fertilisers and water to the site and recycling within the system, result in minimal escape of contaminants to the external environment. Beneficial impacts may also result from improved production, healthier ecosystems, more efficient water and nutrient utilisation and reduced weed numbers.Detrimental environmental impacts may arise where IPM activities produce excess noise, dust or water, or the systems do not function effectively because of inadequate implementation techniques. |
What IPM Standards may be specified? | Standards may include those established by registered industry associations, clients or markets of the enterprise, land management agencies or quality assurance program. |
What OHS requirements may be relevant to this standard? | OHS requirements may include identifying hazards, assessing risks and implementing controls, cleaning, maintaining and storing tools, equipment and machinery, appropriate use, maintenance and storage of PPE including sun protection, safe operation of tools, equipment and machinery, safe handling, use and storage of chemicals, organically based materials and hazardous substances, correct manual handling, basic first aid, safety procedures for protection of others, personal hygiene, and reporting problems to supervisors. |
How may a clean and safe work area be maintained? | Tasks may include disabling unused tools, equipment and machinery and storing neatly out of the way of IPM activities, correct storage of personal protective equipment, safely storing materials on site, and swiftly and efficiently removing and processing debris and waste from the work area. |
What records may apply to controlling weeds? | Records may include types of weeds and beneficial organisms present, numbers of weeds and beneficials present, treatments applied, date of application, application rates, success of treatments, economic thresholds. |
For more information on contexts, environment and variables for training and assessment, refer to the Sector Booklet. |
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