AHCIRG215
Assist with low volume irrigation operations


Application

This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to assist with installing, operating and maintaining low volume irrigation systems. These systems use emitters such as drippers and generally use poly pipe.

It applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.

No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Element

Performance criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Prepare for work

1.1 Confirm work instructions with supervisor

1.2 Select appropriate materials, tools, equipment and machinery

1.3 Select personal protective equipment and clothing and ensure correct fit

1.4 Identify manual handling and other workplace health and safety hazards

1.5 Identify the site for installation of the irrigation system

2. Install irrigation components

2.1 Prepare the site for installation works

2.2 Assemble and connect system components and test joints

2.3 Connect system to water supply

2.4 Flush and commission system

2.5 Identify and report operating and take corrective actions as directed

2.6 Maintain a clean and safe work area

3. Complete installation work

3.1 Remove waste material from the site and dispose of

3.2 Clean, maintain and store tools, equipment and machinery

3.3 Flush and commission system

4. Carry out start up and shutdown procedures as directed

4.1 Follow start-up sequence

4.2 Shut down system components in sequence

4.3 Drain system

4.4 Record irrigation activity

5. Assist with system maintenance

5.1 Check emitters for serviceability and output

5.2 Maintain delivery components

5.3 Check water supply and pumping system periodically, where required

5.4 Keep maintenance records up to date

Evidence of Performance

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

assemble and join irrigation system components

carry out basic maintenance tasks

carry out low volume irrigation operating tasks

complete installation work

fix identified faults

follow directions to operate pumps, filters and valves

install irrigation components

look for leaks and faulty emitters

prepare materials, tools and equipment

recognise and report faults

undertake site preparation tasks as directed


Evidence of Knowledge

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

principles and practice of low volume irrigation operation

characteristics and operation of joints, valves and emitter components

components in low volume irrigation systems

emitter spacing, coverage and pressure

indicators of over and under watering

installation techniques and procedures

irrigation controllers

irrigation pipes, types and sizes

irrigation times to deliver sufficient volume without over watering

methods and techniques of low volume irrigation installation

operation of low volume irrigation system

set out procedures

system malfunctions and their likely causes

use of recycled water and colour coding of pipes

water requirements of relevant plants


Assessment Conditions

Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.


Foundation Skills

Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.


Range Statement


Sectors

Irrigation (IRG)