Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to operate machinery and related equipment used in the harvest of horticultural crops.
It applies to individuals who take responsibility for their 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. Prepare machinery for use | 1.1 Select and use appropriate personnel protective equipment (PPE) 1.2 Conduct routine pre-operational checks and housekeeping tasks 1.3 Replace and report damaged or worn components 1.4 Identify and report potential workplace hazards 1.5 Attach ancillary equipment and check for correct operation |
2. Operate machinery and equipment | 2.1 Operate machinery and equipment in a safe, efficient and controlled manner 2.2 Operate machinery according to task requirements, conditions and manufacturer operating guidelines 2.3 Monitor machinery performance and efficiency and make adjustments as required |
3. Complete work | 3.1 Follow shutdown procedures 3.2 Complete operational records 3.3 Carry out routine operator servicing 3.4 Identify and report malfunctions, faults, irregular performance or damage |
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:
attach and uncouple associated equipment
conduct pre- and post-operational checks
operate horticultural harvesting machinery and equipment in a safe, efficient and controlled manner
perform operator maintenance tasks
record work activities
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices for operating crop harvesting machinery
basic diagnostic techniques
components and controls features and functions
crop quality assurance and hygiene requirements
equipment characteristics, technical capabilities and limitations
manufacturer and workplace requirements for pre-operational checks, machinery operation techniques, operator level servicing and shutdown and emergency 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
Production horticulture (PHT)