Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to assist with installing, operating and maintaining surface irrigation operations.
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. Plan and prepare for work | 1.1 Read and confirm work instructions 1.2 Prepare tools and equipment 1.3 Select personal protective equipment and clothing and ensure correct fit 1.4 Identify manual handling and other work health and safety hazards |
2. Set up field for surface irrigation systems | 2.1 Check rotobuck area for irrigation set up 2.2 Check pumps, bores and other water delivery mechanisms for irrigation set up 2.3 Position and secure tarpaulins or other water control devices as directed |
3. Carry out routine maintenance activities on irrigation delivery systems | 3.1 Service mechanical equipment 3.2 Flush and clean supply and distribution system 3.3 Maintain system inlets, outlets, structures and fittings 3.4 Check system is running smoothly and is free of damage, leaks and blockages in channels, drains and outlets 3.5 Clean irrigation system and ensure there is no disruption to the system |
4. Undertake surface irrigation work as directed | 4.1 Open and shut gates and valves 4.2 Ensure required head and water levels in head ditch are achieved and maintained to ensure sufficient water flow and availability to crops 4.3 Start or open the required number of siphons 4.4 Monitor progress of water flow in furrows 4.5 Lift siphons where irrigation is complete 4.6 Carry out irrigation change and mark 4.7 Move irrigation equipment |
5. Record and report maintenance activities | 5.1 Record damage and blockage caused by pests and vermin by damage type, location and the section of the system affected 5.2 Record and report damage or faulty pumps, valves, electrical components and computer systems and carry out necessary repairs 5.3 Record and report routine maintenance activities |
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:
carry out surface irrigation operating tasks as directed
check siphons for even water flow
look for uneven water distribution or drainage
monitor required head and water levels in head ditch
open and close check valves
record and report maintenance activities and faults
start and pull siphons
use mechanical equipment to build and repair banks and for weed removal
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of surface irrigation
channels, furrows, borders, fittings and outlets
damage and problems that occur with gravity-fed irrigation systems
environmental impacts of irrigation using water from any ground or underground source
identification, characteristics and operation of surface irrigation structures and components
signs of stress in plants as well as the signs of over and under-watering
system cleaning procedures
system malfunctions and their likely causes
purpose and principles of surface irrigation
weed types encountered in gravity fed irrigation systems and their control
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)