AHCMOM202
Operate tractors


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate tractors with and without attached equipment.

Working with tractors is an inherently dangerous activity. Individuals who work at this level must be thoroughly instructed in all work health and safety aspects of operating tractors. The tractor must also comply with relevant Australian standards for tractors.

All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, work health and safety requirements, manufacturer’s specifications and sustainability practices.

This unit applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for own work. They undertake defined activities and provide solutions to a limited range of predictable problems.

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 tractor for operation

1.1 Confirm the activity to be undertaken with supervisor, including identifying potential hazards and implementation of safe working procedures

1.2 Read the relevant machinery operation manual and observe manufacturer’s instructions

1.3 Use and maintain personal protective equipment

1.4 Select and attach equipment required to carry out work

1.5 Conduct safety pre operational checks on both tractor and attached equipment and report faults or malfunctions for repair

1.6 Attach equipment and loads that do not exceed the weight limitations or change the dynamic stability of the tractor

2. Operate tractor

2.1 Recognise and control risks to self and others

2.2 Steer, manoeuvre and position tractor in a smooth and controlled manner

2.3 Operate tractor according to low risk operating procedures in a controlled manner and monitored for performance and efficiency

2.4 Undertake work in accordance with the agreed plan and within the operating capacities and manufacturer's specifications

2.5 Recognise and minimise environmental impacts associated with tractor operation

3. Complete and check tractor operation

3.1 Conduct shut-down procedures

3.2 Perform routine operational servicing and minor maintenance

3.3 Identify and report malfunctions, faults, irregular performance or damage

3.4 Clean, decontaminate, secure and store tractor and attached equipment

3.5 Apply enterprise biosecurity policies where required

3.6 Maintain tractor and equipment use records

Evidence of Performance

The candidate must be observed operating a tractor with a range of attached equipment and implements, in a range of surface and terrain conditions.

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:

identify hazards and implement safe operating procedures

carry out pre-operational checks and maintenance including tagging defects

set and secure attachments according to manufacturer's directions

steer, manoeuvre and position the tractor in a safe and controlled manner

utilise the various components and controls of the tractor

secure, adjust and calibrate attachments and implements for operation

operate tractors in a range of surface and terrain conditions, with and without attachments and implements

carry out shut down procedures

minimise environmental impacts associated with tractor operation

follow enterprise work health and safety policies

follow enterprise biosecurity protocols where required


Evidence of Knowledge

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

tractor components, controls and features and operational functions

tractor operators manuals

tractor steering systems and features

features and operational functions and procedures of attachments and implements

load limits and the principles of weight distribution with regard to load shifting and tractor movement

distinguishing characteristics of individual tractors including rated performance capacities

effects of various surface and difficult terrain conditions on tractor operation

duty of care to self, others and the environment

relevant legislation with regard to machinery operation and licensing requirements environmental Codes of Practice with regard to machinery operation

enterprise work health and safety requirements to operate a tractor safely

enterprise biosecurity procedures


Assessment Conditions

Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or simulated environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting. All evidence collected must meet minimum requirements including industry standard timeframes for performance of tasks.

Assessment should take place in a range of surface and terrain conditions, including adverse conditions.


Foundation Skills

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


Range Statement

An induction process for the use of the tractor must be followed, including reading and observing the manufacturer’s manual when using a different tractor or on a different property.

Assessments must be conducted on candidates performing a range of activities, using a range of attachments and implements, in a range of surface and terrain conditions.


Sectors

Machinery operation and maintenance (MOM)