Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to measure pressure, flow and distribution uniformity of an irrigation system.
It applies to individuals who take responsibility for own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
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. Measure irrigation system performance | 1.1 Measure and record system pressures, water flow rates and pump performance parameters 1.2 Measure variations in system pressures, water flow rates and pump performance parameters where relevant and record 1.3 Inspect distribution and delivery systems and identify and fix malfunctions in system and record actions 1.4 Identify and record factors external to the system that may cause interference |
2. Monitor supply of equipment and spare parts | 2.1 Record supply and part usage 2.2 Monitor spare parts to ensure the supply meets demands 2.3 Make purchases within budget constraints 2.4 Report parts requirements outside of budget constraints 2.5 Record purchases and orders |
3. Record and report system performance status | 3.1 Record system pressures and variations 3.2 Record system flow rates and variations 3.3 Calculate and record distribution uniformity and mean application rates 3.4 Determine and record watering depth |
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:
access and prepare data records for both print-based and computer-based data
apply measuring and testing techniques
calculate pressure differentials, flow rates, crop yields, estimated water usage and actual water usage
identify adverse environmental impacts of irrigation activities and take appropriate remedial action
use computers to record and report data
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
environmental impacts of irrigation, using water from any ground or underground source
measuring and monitoring procedures for factors contributing to irrigation system delivery
soil water retention testing techniques
water authority standards and procedures
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)