Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

PSPRAD009 Mapping and Delivery Guide
Select, commission and maintain radiation measuring instruments

Version 1.0
Issue Date: April 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency PSPRAD009 - Select, commission and maintain radiation measuring instruments
Description
Employability Skills
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit describes the skills required to provide sufficient, fully functioning radiation measuring instruments to implement an organisation’s radiation management plan and monitoring programs. This involves identifying the need for specific kinds of instruments, determining the suitability of available instruments, procuring and commissioning instruments, checking their serviceability and calibration, performing routine maintenance, training staff to operate instruments correctly, and maintaining relevant records.This unit applies to those working in a radiation safety coordination role. They may work as, or assist, a radiation safety officer working:at a mine or plant that processes radioactive ore and mineralswith instruments that emit ionising radiation at geotechnical, construction, mining and manufacturing sites, or analytical and research facilitiesin a laboratory or licensed facility that handles radioactive materials or has radiation-emitting apparatusin a nuclear facility.The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, or be authorised by the responsible person, to perform routine tasks in familiar contexts.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.

This unit contains no specific industry-mandated assessment conditions. Guidance on suggested and recommended conditions and methods can be found in the Implementation Guide.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Prerequisites/co-requisites
Competency Field Radiation Safety
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Procure suitable instruments
  • Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities.
  • Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers.
  • Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications.
  • Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence.
  • Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement.
       
Element: Commission new instruments
  • Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements.
  • Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use.
  • Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use.
  • Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system.
  • Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument.
       
Element: Train instrument operators
  • Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured.
  • Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles.
  • Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications.
  • Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures.
  • Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence.
       
Element: Maintain instruments fit for purpose
  • Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan.
  • Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information.
  • Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical.
  • Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel.
  • Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use.
  • Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure.
       
Element: Procure suitable instruments
  • Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities.
  • Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers.
  • Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications.
  • Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence.
  • Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement.
       
Element: Commission new instruments
  • Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements.
  • Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use.
  • Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use.
  • Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system.
  • Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument.
       
Element: Train instrument operators
  • Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured.
  • Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles.
  • Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications.
  • Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures.
  • Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence.
       
Element: Maintain instruments fit for purpose
  • Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan.
  • Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information.
  • Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical.
  • Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel.
  • Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use.
  • Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure.
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Procure suitable instruments

1.1 Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities.

1.2 Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers.

1.3 Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications.

1.4 Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence.

1.5 Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement.

2. Commission new instruments

2.1 Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements.

2.2 Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use.

2.3 Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use.

2.4 Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system.

2.5 Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument.

3. Train instrument operators

3.1 Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured.

3.2 Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles.

3.3 Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications.

3.4 Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures.

3.5 Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence.

4. Maintain instruments fit for purpose

4.1 Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan.

4.2 Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information.

4.3 Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical.

4.4 Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel.

4.5 Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use.

4.6 Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

Recognising types of measuring instruments and the advantages and limitations of their use, including at least one of:

air proportional

gas proportional

gas ionisation

Geiger-Muller (GM)

compensated GM

scintillation

neutron monitors

solid state

personal dosimeters (badge and electronic)

locating, interpreting and comparing information about measuring instruments used by organisation

selecting suitable instruments by analysing factors, including at least one of:

intended use (fixed/portable, laboratory/field)

range of radiation types

intensities and energies

accuracy

sensitivity

response time

robustness

serviceability

limitations

conducting pre-use and calibration checks, troubleshooting common faults, conducting basic repairs of and maintaining radiation measuring instruments

safely operating radiation measuring instruments to obtain reliable data

processing and analysing radiation measurement data and applying established corrections

interpreting manuals and writing operating instructions for radiation measuring instruments

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.

ionising radiation, radioactivity, radioactive material, activity, dose, contamination, contamination controls, shielding, half-life, and radionuclide

operating voltage, accuracy, response time, sensitivity, detection limit, linearity, source-detector geometry and distance corrections, compensation

types, energies and properties of ionising radiation, sources and shielding methods

radiation quantities, including exposure, dose, tissue weighting factor, effective dose, dose rate, radiation weighting factor, dose equivalent, and dose limits

international system (SI) of units for radiation quantities, multiples and sub-multiples

techniques for conducting measurements and monitoring surveys

characteristics, capabilities, limitations, function of key components and operating principles of radiation measuring instruments

role and importance of regular calibration and pre-use checks and maintenance

common instrument faults, troubleshooting, and recommended remedial actions and repairs

common instrument operator errors

techniques for assessing radiation hazards likely to be encountered in job role

guidelines and safety procedures for working with radiation sources, based on principles of:

reducing exposure time

maintaining greatest distance

using as much shielding as possible

health, safety and workplace emergency response procedures relevant to job role

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section.

1. Procure suitable instruments

1.1 Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities.

1.2 Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers.

1.3 Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications.

1.4 Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence.

1.5 Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement.

2. Commission new instruments

2.1 Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements.

2.2 Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use.

2.3 Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use.

2.4 Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system.

2.5 Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument.

3. Train instrument operators

3.1 Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured.

3.2 Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles.

3.3 Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications.

3.4 Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures.

3.5 Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence.

4. Maintain instruments fit for purpose

4.1 Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan.

4.2 Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information.

4.3 Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical.

4.4 Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel.

4.5 Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use.

4.6 Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure.

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities. 
Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers. 
Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications. 
Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence. 
Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement. 
Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements. 
Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use. 
Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use. 
Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system. 
Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument. 
Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured. 
Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles. 
Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications. 
Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures. 
Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence. 
Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan. 
Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information. 
Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical. 
Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel. 
Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use. 
Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure. 
Determine types of ionising radiation measuring instruments required by the organisation to monitor hazards associated with current or future radiation-related work activities. 
Research information about specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers. 
Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against the organisation’s specifications. 
Seek advice and assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence. 
Select the most suitable instruments and arrange for their procurement. 
Use manufacturer’s documentation to develop a thorough understanding of instrument operation, functional test procedures, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements. 
Ensure that the instrument has been calibrated appropriately for its intended use. 
Conduct component checks and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for intended use. 
Enter required information about the new instrument into the organisation’s information management system. 
Develop and document clear procedures for operating, caring for and maintaining the instrument. 
Identify the skills and knowledge required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and interpret the radiation quantities measured. 
Develop appropriate training program for instrument operators using established adult learning principles. 
Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required measurement applications. 
Record training outcomes in accordance with regulator requirements and organisational procedures. 
Audit operators’ use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence. 
Conduct regular instrument checks and minor maintenance in accordance with organisation’s radiation management plan. 
Check instrument calibration using specified standards and procedures, and record relevant information. 
Troubleshoot basic faults and determine whether local repair or maintenance is technically possible and economical. 
Arrange for repair or servicing from an accredited agent or other appropriate personnel. 
Check instrument’s performance after repair or service before approving it for use. 
Maintain required records that are complete, accurate, legible and secure. 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

PSPRAD009 - Select, commission and maintain radiation measuring instruments
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Assessment Record Sheet

PSPRAD009 - Select, commission and maintain radiation measuring instruments

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