Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to interpret and apply industry and organisation procedures, guidelines, policies, ethical standards and sustainability requirements for working in the pest management sector. It requires the ability to identify and follow legislative and procedural requirements and complete daily work activities under routine supervision and within organisational guidelines.
The unit applies to individuals who undertake defined activities under general supervision. They exercise limited autonomy and take some accountability for their own work.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit underpin a broad range of activities applicable to job roles throughout the pest management industry at various levels.
Participants operating in this field may be required to hold current chemical handling certification. Other licensing conditions may also apply to this unit. Specific determination should be sought through your relevant State or Territory.
In addition to legal responsibilities, all units of competency dealing with animals in the AHC Training Package have the requirements for animals to be handled humanely to minimise stress and discomfort.
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. Demonstrate basic understanding of pest management principles | 1.1 Recognise common invasive pests relevant to field of work 1.2 Identify characteristics of specific pest species and their impacts on the community and environment 1.3 Identify pest management plans applicable to area of work 1.4 Apply principles of integrated pest management according to supervisor instructions 1.5 Identify risks associated with presence of pest species in area of work 1.6 Identify own responsibilities and boundaries of own job role in relation to pest management practices |
2. Work within industry guidelines, procedures and legislation | 2.1 Assist with identifying key stakeholders and contribute to stakeholder engagement and consultation processes 2.2 Apply the following work health and safety practices: use of personal protective equipment and safe chemical handling, where applicable 2.3 Identify environmental, legislative, ethical and organisational requirements relevant to working in the pest management sector 2.4 Identify licenses, permits and permissions required to enter a property for the purpose of pest management activities 2.5 Relate standard operating procedures and Codes of Practice to field of work 2.6 Follow procedures to ensure applicable legislative, licensing and procedural requirements are ethically implemented to required standards |
3. Use technology, equipment and tools to carry out work tasks | 3.1 Identify and use suitable navigational tools for onsite orientation 3.2 Calibrate or prepare equipment for use 3.3 Use communication devices onsite effectively and correctly to meet communication needs of self and others 3.4 Operate a range of equipment and tools required for work tasks 3.5 Identify equipment faults and take action or tell your supervisor 3.6 Record information and data regarding the pest control program in relevant database or information system according to workplace procedures |
4. Prioritise and undertake daily work activities | 4.1 Seek clarification from senior officer regarding target area and, where necessary, methods to be used in the pest management program 4.2 Identify, prioritise and carry out work tasks within designated timeframes in accordance with work orders 4.3 Identify and select equipment required to carry out pest management program 4.4 Review factors affecting the achievement of work tasks and tell your supervisor 4.5 Dispose of waste material in accordance with organisational procedures and biosecurity practices 4.6 Undertake routine monitoring of pest management area and, as appropriate, discuss any factors that might impact the effectiveness of the program to your supervisor 4.7 Follow work health and safety requirements for all activities |
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:
work in a pest management environment
apply procedures for the safe use of chemicals, equipment and tools relevant to a pest management treatment plan
follow safe waste disposal procedures
use communication, navigational and date recording equipment relevant to field work, including any necessary preparations according to organisational requirements
assist with identifying key stakeholders and gaining an understanding of their attitudes towards pests, the damage pests cause and issues that may influence pest management
communication strategies used to engage with supervisor and stakeholders
apply work health and safety policies and procedures in the context of own work
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
common pest management methods, strategies and monitoring techniques and why they are used for a specific species
standard operating procedures and codes of practice applicable to own work
basic requirements for ensuring the welfare of animals described in the relevant Codes of Practice
invasive pest species common to field of work and their harmful impact on the environment
the relevant licenses, permits and permissions required to enter a property
pest signs and the presence of recent pest activity at the site
risk factors, including human, health and environmental associated with the pest management activity
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
Pest Management (PMG)