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Elements and Performance Criteria

  1. Assess weed infestation
  2. Plan the implementation of control measures
  3. Implement control measures
  4. Monitor control methods

Evidence Required

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole

Competence in controlling weeds requires evidence that weed control measures have been successfully planned implemented and monitored according to enterprise guidelines and industry best practice The skills and knowledge required to control weeds must be transferable to a different work environment For example this could include different weed species enterprise situations and control methods

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace to transfer the skills to other contexts and to deal with unplanned events The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below

Weed recognition

Economic aesthetic or environmental thresholds for a range of weeds

Chemical biological and cultural control methods and treatments available to the enterprise within the parameters of an IPM program

Range and use of tools equipment and machinery available to the enterprise for implementing the control measures

Range of site monitoring and analysis techniques that may be used to implement an IPM program

Association of IPM methods with site limitations environmental implications end market and horticultural objectives for the site

OHS issues and legislative requirements associated wth hazardous sunbstances regulations and Codes of Practice

OHS responsibilities of employers and employees

Correct wearingfit of personal protective equipment

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria

To achieve the performance criteria appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required These include the ability to

Recognise of a range of weeds and beneficial organisms within a particular enterprise

Communicate with work team members supervisors contractors and consultants

Utilise proforma reporting analysis and work procedure documents

Understand IPM symbols and information

Interpret and apply IPM program spatial and logistical specifications

Correct fitting cleaning and storage of personal protective equipment

Interpret and apply test results and calculate the quantities and applications rates of control materials

Coordinate work group contractors and own activities to sequentially and effectively complete IPM activities in a timely and cost effective manner

What processes should be applied to this competency standard

There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life which are required in all jobs They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions Some of these are covered by the key competencies although others may be added The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where not required perform the process perform and administer the process and perform administer and design the process

How can communication of ideas and information be applied

Written oral and telecommunication of ideas and information relating to IPM implementation activities and problems encountered will be required with the supervisor work group contractors or consultants

How can information be collected analysed and organised

Enterprise work procedures and IPM program should be consulted interpreted and applied to coordinate weed control activities with further clarification sought from the supervisor contractors or consultants where necessary

How are activities planned and organised

Work activities for the work group contractors and self will be planned prior to and adjusted during implementation of the IPM program

How can team work be applied

Implementation of the IPM program will involve facilitating and leading members of a team to complete IPM activities and meet IPM standards and specifications on time and budget

How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques be applied

Mathematical application will be required to implement the spatial and logistical and quantitative requirements of the IPM program

How can problemsolving skills be applied

Site contingencies personnel difficulties and control and timeline failures may require problemsolving techniques

How can the use of technology be applied

Technological understanding will be required to access and apply IPM specifications to work activities undertake IPM activities communicate and keep records

Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one

This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function

There is critical information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package All users of these competency standards must have access to both the Assessment Guidelines and the relevant Sector Booklet


Range Statement

Range of Variables

The 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.