Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with the sampling and testing of soil or growing media sampling and testing.
This unit applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
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. Collect soil or media samples for testing | 1.1 Discuss task requirements with supervisor and seek clarification where necessary 1.2 Prepare tools and materials for collecting samples 1.3 Take and prepare samples as instructed 1.4 Assist with labelling and recording samples if required |
2. Perform basic tests on soil or media sample | 2.1 Recognise basic features of a soil profile 2.2 Assist with testing or inspecting physical properties of samples 2.3 Assist with testing chemical properties of samples 2.4 Relate soil test results to suitability of the soil or media for growing |
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:
collect soil and media samples
perform basic descriptive tests for soil texture, salinity and pH
describe soils or media using commonly used descriptive terms
assist with the use of simple soil testing equipment for testing pH and salinity
prepare records of soil sampling results as required
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices for recognising soils or growing media properties
basic soil or media field tests
soil or media chemical properties
soil or media physical properties
soil or media plant relationships
soil sampling techniques
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
Soils and media (SOL)