This unit applies to workers in plant-based enterprises or activities and is likely to be under limited supervision from others with checking only related to overall progress. Responsibility for and limited organisation of the work of others may be involved.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Assess pests and disease infestation

1.1. Scope and size of the infestation is assessed.

1.2. Plants pests, diseases and disorders and beneficial organisms are identified and reported or recorded in field notes.

1.3. Levels of pest infestations tolerated by the client, market or environment are identified from the IPM strategy.

2. Plan the implementation of control measures

2.1. Control measures suitable for the infestation are selected from IPM strategy.

2.2. Tools, equipment and machinery are selected for each work activity according to enterprise work procedures.

2.3. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified, risks assessed and risk controls are implemented.

2.4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected, used and maintained according to procedures.

2.5. Control measures selected need to be in full consideration of OHS and environmental implications.

3. Implement control measures

3.1. Enterprise work team, contractors and IPM product suppliers are coordinated in a sequential, timely and effective manner in consultation with the supervisor.

3.2. Control measures are implemented according to the IPM standards or industry Code of Practice.

3.3. A clean and safe work area is maintained throughout and on completion of each activity.

3.4. Records are maintained as required by legislation and enterprise guidelines.

4. Monitor control methods

4.1. Control methods are monitored to identify side effects to other plants, animals or external environment.

4.2. Effectiveness of control methods are assessed in reference to specified industry, OHS and enterprise standards.

4.3. Adjustments to IPM control methods are implemented where necessary to meet enterprise specifications.

Required skills

recognise a range of pests, diseases and beneficial organisms within a particular enterprise

communicate with work team members, supervisors, contractors and consultants

understand IPM symbols and information

interpret and apply an IPM- based program

utilise proforma reporting, analysis and work procedure documents

interpret and apply plant pest and disease spatial and logistical specifications

interpret and apply test results, and calculate the quantities and application rates of control materials

coordinate work groups, contractors and own activities to sequentially and effectively complete activities in a timely and cost effective manner

use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

pests and disease recognition

economic, aesthetic or environmental thresholds for a range of plant pests, diseases and disorders

chemical, biological and cultural control methods and treatments available to the enterprise within the parameters of an IPM program

range and use of tools, equipment and machinery available to the enterprise for implementing the control measures

range of site monitoring and analysis techniques that may be used to implement and IPM program

choice of plant pest and disease methods with site limitations, environmental implications, end market and production or environmental objectives for the site

IPM standards or industry Code of Practice

occupational health and safety responsibilities for employees and employers

correct use and maintenance of personal protective equipment.

OHS and environmental legislative requirements including hazardous substances regulations.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

identify a range of pests, diseases and disorders, and beneficial organisms

assess damage or threat to plants

select pest and disease controls and timing of operations

prepare and calibrate equipment

apply a range of pest and disease control methods and keep records

monitor the effectiveness of controls.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Pests, diseases and disorders may include:

the range of pests, diseases and disorders of plants managed or controlled by using a range of integrated measures of management and control.

Unit sector

Pest management

This unit contains employability skills.