Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to plan and carry out sampling and testing of water quality as part of a monitoring program.
This unit applies to individuals who work under broad direction and use discretion and judgement in the selection and use of available resources.
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 for sampling and testing field work | 1.1 Confirm monitoring schedule 1.2 Identify water quality and environmental parameters 1.3 Identify samples to be collected 1.4 Determine and arrange equipment requirements for water sampling and testing 1.5 Assess range of likely operating conditions, hazards and difficult or sensitive environments for impact on sampling and testing |
2. Prepare equipment and resources | 2.1 Obtain equipment required for sampling and testing 2.2 Check and calibrate equipment for availability and serviceability 2.3 Verify correct and accurate performance of equipment 2.4 Repair and maintain field-based equipment and instruments 2.5 Collect data or record sheets for use 2.6 Install and protect equipment 2.7 Brief staff undertaking sampling and testing on responsibilities |
3. Carry out sampling and testing of water | 3.1 Undertake tests in accordance with monitoring plan 3.2 Take and test samples in accordance with monitoring standards 3.3 Prepare, package and send samples to laboratory for external analysis 3.4 Make specific and general observations including information on relevant ambient and antecedent environmental conditions 3.5 Inform appropriate person of obvious water quality or environmental issues immediately |
4. Complete water sampling and testing activities | 4.1 Clean, repair and store equipment and clothing 4.2 Repair damaged or malfunctioning equipment on site or send to manufacturer or specialist 4.3 Record test results and observations on data sheets 4.4 Report changes in field conditions 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:
plan a water sampling program under direction according to regulatory and organisation requirements
test and calibrate equipment according to regulatory and organisation requirements
sample and test water according to regulatory and organisation requirements
record results on data sheets
record and report water testing results to organisational standards
report obvious water quality issues observed during sampling to supervisor or manager immediately
apply work health and safety practices in the context of own work
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
water monitoring schedules and guidelines
standards for water quality
sampling and testing methods
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
Lands, Parks and Wildlife (LPW)