Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prune shrubs and small trees that are less than three meters in height while standing on the ground.
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. Identify pruning requirements | 1.1 Identify work health and safety hazards and report to the supervisor 1.2 Select and use personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure correct fit 1.3 Select appropriate pruning tools and equipment for the location, access and size of material to be pruned 1.4 Identify plants that require pruning and confirm with supervisor 1.5 Confirm with the supervisor pruning method to be used |
2. Undertake pruning of shrubs and small trees | 2.1 Carry out pre-operational and safety checks on pruning tools and equipment 2.2 Operate machinery, equipment and tools as required 2.3 Carry out pruning as directed 2.4 Use correct manual handling techniques when lifting or moving heavy loads 2.5 Record and report work outcomes to the supervisor |
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.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
identify pruning requirements
identify and report site and tree hazards
recognise plants, shrubs and trees
prune shrubs and small trees
use appropriate tools, equipment and safety equipment
minimise environmental disturbance
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of pruning
basic botany and physiology as they apply to pruning
correct and safe use and care of tools and equipment
effects of pruning on plant growth and habit
plant health principles
plant names and growth habits
use of hygienic practices
AS4373-2007 Pruning of amenity trees
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
Parks and gardens (PGD)