The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to assess the spring condition, set and reset springs for repair, set up and operate spring forming equipment, form and shape material and test components. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with spring repair or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

correctly using tools and equipment

following plans

using calculations to determine material requirements

determining repair requirements

carrying out repairs

following oral instruction

checking and clarifying task-related information

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

procedures for testing springs for correct operation/malfunction

causes of deviations from specifications/defect in springs

the effects of annealing, hardening, tempering, soaking and setting on spring operation

repair and rework procedures for a range of spring defects

hazards and control measures associated with the set-up and operation of spring forming equipment

procedures for tapering, rolling and bending materials

applications of both hot and cold forming processes

allowances to be made for relief and spring-back

procedures for recording test results

procedures for nesting springs

use and application of personal protective equipment

safe work practices and procedures

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, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Springs

Laminated, compression/coil, plate etc.

Equipment

Tapering, coiling, stripping and buckling, and spring testing machines, but does not include automated spring making equipment

Material

Spring and/or specialised steel