Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to control Phase II of mushroom substrate.
It applies to individuals who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. 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. Confirm the requirements for Phase II mushroom substrate preparation | 1.1 Monitor and manage Phase II mushroom substrate process and ensure that all equipment is operated safely 1.2 Check to ensure all temperature probes are functioning correctly 1.3 Ensure site quarantine protocols and farm and personal hygiene requirements are followed 1.4 Assess condition and quality of compost before filling |
2. Carry out Phase II process | 2.1 Monitor placement of probes in air and substrate 2.2 Check the evenness of filling and the amount filled 2.3 Ensure doors are secure and vents and thermostats are set at completion of filling 2.4 Measure and record key factors and critical points 2.5 Adjust equipment settings to ensure optimum conditions for each Phase II sub-stage 2.6 Take random representative samples for laboratory testing 2.7 Determine ammonia levels before cool down for spawning |
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:
assess room or tunnel layout and determine most appropriate locations for taking substrate and air measurements
carry out effective troubleshooting during Phase II process
differentiate between Phase I substrate and substrate ready for spawning and describe desired parameters of each stage
monitor and manage Phase II process for at least eight crops
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices for controlling Phase II processes
concept of compost selectivity and biological indicators of compost quality
correct probe placement and calibration
factors influencing air quantity and distribution
farm standards and procedures, including those relating to workplace health and safety, food safety, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP), quality systems, emergency procedures, organisational structure
interpretation of chemical test results
how different systems (shelf, tray and tunnel) impact on temperature zones in substrate
key parameters to be recorded and monitored relating to temperature, ammonia and moisture content
objectives and desired parameters of each sub-stage of Phase II substrate preparation
overview of Phase I compost production and how it impacts on Phase II process
relevant legislation and industry codes of practice
site quarantine protocols
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)