CPPSIS3015
Collect basic surveying data


Application

This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to collect basic surveying data using measurements taken in the field. Basic surveying data refers to measurements of distances, angles and height difference with accuracy of one centimetre or better. The unit covers preparing for data collection by clarifying the data collection tasks and equipment to be used, and identifying and reporting hazards. The unit also covers operating equipment to take basic surveying measurements, and performing required data reductions and computations to ensure the accuracy of collected data before leaving the field. It requires the ability to follow standard operating procedures for setting up, using, checking and storing equipment; and completing records and documentation.

The unit supports those who work under supervision in a surveying and spatial information services team, in positions relating to field data collection.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit of competency at the time of endorsement.


Elements and Performance Criteria

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions.

1.

Prepare for data collection tasks.

1.1.

Data collection requirements and basic surveying tasks are clarified with appropriate persons.

1.2.

Equipment and collection method are selected to meet task requirements, and set up in consultation with appropriate persons.

1.3.

Hazards are identified and risks controlled and reported according to organisational requirements.

2.

Carry out basic data collection tasks.

2.1.

Factors affecting equipment use and accuracy of data are identified and reported.

2.2.

Basic surveying data is collected using selected equipment and according to manufacturer specifications, standard operating procedures, and task requirements.

2.3.

Measurements are recorded, calculated, reduced and checked before leaving the site according to organisational requirements.

3.

Finalise data collection tasks.

3.1.

Documentation is completed and data stored according to organisational requirements.

3.2.

Equipment is checked, and faults and problems are reported.

3.3.

Equipment is packed up and stored according to manufacturer and organisational requirements.

Evidence of Performance

A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy the requirements of the elements, performance criteria, foundation skills and range of conditions of this unit. The person must also accurately record basic surveying data for two field projects, including data relating to the position of geographic features and their attributes, including angles, distances and height.

During the above projects, the person must collect the basic surveying data using two of the following pieces of equipment:

automatic, digital or laser level

electromagnetic recording equipment

global positioning system (GPS) for:

determining point position

navigating and recording a traverse

collecting designated attributes for designated features

ground penetrating radar

total station.

In addition, while collecting basic surveying data, the person must use two of the following:

digital or hard copy maps and images

distance measuring

measuring bearings or angles

measuring vertical angles or slopes.

During the above projects, the person must also:

communicate clearly with others to clarify work tasks and equipment selection

comply with organisational, legislative and manufacturer requirements to work safely and use personal protective equipment (PPE)

comply with relevant safe work method statements (SWMS)

follow manufacturer specifications and standard operating procedures to correctly set up, operate, pack up, and store tools and equipment

use organisational and industry procedures and proformas to accurately collect and record measurements and data.


Evidence of Knowledge

A person demonstrating competency in this unit must demonstrate knowledge of:

accepted organisational standards for recording surveying metadata

attributes associated with a dataset

organisational and industry policies and procedures relating to collecting, recording and storing surveying data

organisational and industry procedures relating to work tasks specified in the performance evidence, including equipment use

spatial data collection procedures for equipment used, as specified in the performance evidence

work health and safety procedures relating to data collection activities.


Assessment Conditions

The following must be present and available to learners during assessment activities:

equipment:

as specified in the performance evidence

specifications:

standard operating procedures and documentation relating to data collection tasks

relationships with team members and supervisor:

working under supervision.

Timeframe:

as specified by task and organisational requirements.

Assessor requirements

As a minimum, assessors must satisfy the assessor requirements in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) current at the time of assessment.


Foundation Skills

This section describes the language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills essential to performance in this unit but not explicit in the performance criteria.

Skill

Performance feature

Numeracy skills to:

perform mathematical reductions.

Oral communication skills to:

ask questions to clarify task requirements and equipment selection.

Reading skills to:

locate specific information in forms and standard operating procedures required for using equipment and recording collected data.

Writing skills to:

record clear and accurate measurements, computations, and field checks.


Range Statement

This section specifies work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below.

Appropriate persons must include at least one of the following:

experienced colleague

site personnel

supervisor or line manager.


Sectors

Surveying and spatial information services