Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to control erosion and sediment using earthworks construction and other land forming activities.
Construction is often carried out using a single earthmoving machine in varied conditions and terrains that requires the plant operator to develop skills that are unique to this sector.
This unit applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work, they undertake defined routine activities.
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 to work | 1.1 Read work instructions relating to the activity and clarify purpose and issues with the supervisor 1.2 Prepare tools and equipment and use as instructed by supervisor 1.3 Identify manual handling and other work health and safety hazards, tell supervisor and apply safe work practices to minimise risks 1.4 Select personal protective equipment and clothing and ensure correct fit |
2. Conduct erosion and sediment control activities | 2.1 Identify erosion and sediment risks at a site and confirm with supervisor 2.2 Assemble structures to prevent erosion and control sediment at site 2.3 Carry out sediment control and maintenance activities 2.4 Operate tools, machinery and equipment as instructed |
3. Complete work | 3.1 Dispose of or recycle soil and waste material from the site to minimise damage to the environment 3.2 Clean, store and maintain all tools and equipment |
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:
conduct erosion and sediment control activities as instructed by a supervisor
identify hazards and follow safe operating procedures
identify erosion and sediment control structures, measures and practices
carry out routine work with control measures and structures
identify areas at risk of erosion
operate or use machinery tools and equipment required for the tasks involved safely and efficiently
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
the need for erosion and sediment control, including:
the cost of erosion and sedimentation to the community
the effect of loss of habitat
how water quality is affected
how soil erosion can cause loss of production, assets and amenities
re-occurring maintenance, repair and monitoring requirements for controls
agents and processes of erosion and sedimentation and ways to control them
types of erosion and sediment control structures and techniques for constructing them
role of vegetation in erosion control
basic catchment issues
characteristics of soils with an emphasis on erodible soils
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
Soil and Water Conservation (SAW)