Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to install low and sprinkler volume irrigation systems.
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. Organise resources for installation work | 1.1 Select and use materials, tools, equipment and machinery 1.2 Check that parts and equipment match system drawings and specifications 1.3 Carry out pre-operational and safety checks on tools, equipment and machinery 1.4 Identify work health and safety hazards, assess risks and implement suitable controls 1.5 Select, use and maintain suitable safety and personal protective equipment 1.6 Identify environmental considerations of irrigation installation activities 1.7 Check water supply to ensure that it is compatible with system specifications |
2. Set out and prepare site | 2.1 Measure and mark out irrigation lines 2.2 Confirm trenches are at the specified depth without damage to services, facilities, features and established plants 2.3 Observe regulations relevant to the situation 2.4 Use work practices that reflect sustainable horticulture principles and respond to local community requirements |
3. Install irrigation components | 3.1 Interpret the irrigation system plan and, where applicable, supervise contractors and monitor work to ensure it conforms to the plan 3.2 Assemble and connect components and complete and test joints 3.3 Fit and adjust fittings and valves and secure all joints 3.4 Maintain a clean and safe work area while installation work is carried out |
4. Commission irrigation system | 4.1 Calibrate testing and monitoring equipment 4.2 Confirm the start-up sequence is in accordance with the operations manual 4.3 Flush system as required 4.4 Identify operating faults and take corrective where required 4.5 Record work outcomes and report to supervisor |
5. Complete installation work | 5.1 Finish off earthworks 5.2 Confirm the system configuration and capacity matches the installation plan 5.3 Restore site and clear materials and equipment from the site on completion of maintenance works 5.4 Clean and store tools and equipment |
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:
calibrate testing and monitoring equipment
commission irrigation system
complete installation work
organise resources for installation work
set out and prepare the site
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of
behaviour of water on varying terrain and soil types
calculations for installing irrigation systems
characteristics and operation of joints, valves and sprinkler components
components of an irrigation system
methods and techniques of installing irrigation
operation of pumps and water flow rates
soil characteristics
soil water retention testing techniques
water quality and water filtration techniques
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)