CPPSIS4031A
Perform surveying computations

This unit of competency specifies the outcomes required to solve surveying and engineering-related problems. It requires the ability to identify, analyse and evaluate data to perform surveying computations. Functions would be carried out under limited supervision and within organisational guidelines.

Application

This unit of competency supports the application of sound communication, organisational, problem-solving and time management skills, and a sound understanding of technology. The skills and knowledge acquired upon completion of this unit would apply to the needs of employees in supporting positions for surveying and mapping.


Prerequisites

Nil


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Prepare to perform traverse computations.

1.1

Task objectives are defined.

1.2

Pertinent standards are identified, considered and adhered to, in line with project specifications.

2

Execute the task.

2.1

Computations are performed on angles and bearings.

2.2

Conversions between polar and rectangular modes are performed.

2.3

Computations are performed on the coordinates of a simple closed traverse.

2.4

Computations are performed on the missing elements of a traverse.

2.5

Computations are performed on adjusted coordinates of a traverse.

2.6

Traverse information from field notes is reduced.

2.7

Traverse misclose computations are adjusted according to appropriate industry standards.

2.8

Organisational documented and undocumented practices are adhered to.

3

Solve surveying problems involving circular curves.

3.1

Computations are performed on all elements of circular curves.

3.2

Problems involving circular curve missing elements are solved.

4

Finalise the task.

4.1

Required documentation is completed promptly, accurately and according to organisational guidelines.

4.2

Relevant personnel are informed of the results according to organisational guidelines.

4.3

Spatial data is archived according to project specifications.

Required Skills

This section describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required skills

ability to create, extract and output information from engineering plans

communication skills to:

discuss vocational issues effectively with colleagues

impart knowledge and ideas through oral, written and visual means

computer skills to complete required documentation

literacy skills to:

assess and use workplace information

read and interpret datums and projections

read and record data and write technical reports

research and access routine sources of spatial data

numeracy skills to:

analyse errors

perform mental calculations

record and interpret statistics with accuracy and precision

undertake computations

organisational skills to:

prepare and administer documentation

prioritise activities to meet contractual requirements

spatial skills to:

exercise precision and accuracy in surveying computations

solve basic problems relating to height, depth, breadth, dimension, direction and position in actual operational activity and virtual representation

Required knowledge

basic principles of algebra, geometry and trigonometry

computing basic traverse data from field information

data formats

data management

industry requirements and standards

interaction of surveying software with surveying equipment

organisational policies and guidelines

planning and control processes

road design software

safe work practices

spatial reference systems

standard plan design and presentation conventions

understanding and application of significance in calculations

Evidence Required

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

Overview of assessment

This unit of competency could be assessed on its own or in combination with other units relevant to the job function, for example CPPSIS4029A Collect and set out basic surveying data, and CPPSIS4030A Operate surveying equipment.

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

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to provide evidence of:

applying known solutions to a range of problems

performing calculations following a logical progression and presenting clearly visible results

assessing and recording computations from varied sources

demonstrating operational knowledge in a broad range of areas relating to traverse computations

applying mathematical principles and skills to a range of surveying problems

accuracy in surveying calculations

defining terms used in calculations.

Specific resources for assessment

Resource implications for assessment include access to:

assessment instruments, including personal planner and assessment record book

assignment instructions, work plans and schedules, policy documents and duty statements

registered training provider of assessment services

relevant guidelines, regulations and codes of practice

suitable venue and equipment.

Access must be provided to appropriate learning and assessment support when required.

Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities.

Context of assessment

Holistic: based on the performance criteria, evidence guide, range statement, and required skills and knowledge.

Method of assessment

Demonstrated over a period of time and observed by the assessor (or assessment team working together to conduct the assessment).

Demonstrated competency in a range of situations, that may include customer/workplace interruptions and involvement in related activities normally experienced in the workplace.

Obtained by observing activities in the field and reviewing induction information. If this is not practicable, observation in realistic simulated environments may be substituted.

Guidance information for assessment

Assessment requires that the clients’ objectives and industry expectations are met. If the clients’ objectives are narrowly defined or not representative of industry needs, it may be necessary to refer to portfolio case studies of a variety of surveying and spatial information services requirements to assess competency.

Oral questioning or written assessment and hypothetical situations (scenarios) may be used to assess underpinning knowledge (in assessment situations where the candidate is offered a preference between oral questioning or written assessment, questions are to be identical).

Supplementary evidence may be obtained from relevant authenticated correspondence from existing supervisors, team leaders or specialist training staff.

All practical demonstration must adhere to the safety and environmental regulations relevant to each State or Territory.

Where assessment is for the purpose of recognition (recognition of current competencies [RCC] or recognition of prior learning [RPL]), the evidence provided will need to be authenticated and show that it represents competency demonstrated over a period of time.

In all cases where practical assessment is used it will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge.

Assessment processes will be appropriate to the language and literacy levels of the candidate and any cultural issues that may affect responses to the questions, and will reflect the requirements of the competency and the work being performed.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the performance criteria is detailed below. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Objectives may include:

agreed client requirements

written survey data specifications.

Pertinent standards are standards essential to the accuracy of:

basic measurement

calculation of horizontal and vertical information

calculation of area and volume

recording.

Project specifications refer to:

detailed technical descriptions of the survey data and its requirements.

Traverse refers to:

a method of surveying in which lengths and directions of lines between points on the earth are obtained by or from field measurements and are used in determining positions of the points.

Organisational documented and undocumented practices may include:

appropriate timelines

data processing requirements

final product formats

formal design parameters

protocols for teamwork.

OHS may include:

Australian standards

development of site safety plan

identification of potential hazards

inspection of work sites

training staff in OHS requirements

use of personal protective clothing

use of safety equipment and signage.

Required documentation may include:

field records

final product reports

survey plots.

Organisational guidelines may include:

code of ethics

company policy

legislation relevant to the work or service function

manuals

OHS policies and procedures

personnel practices and guidelines outlining work roles and responsibilities.

Relevant personnel may include:

managers

site personnel such as field hands

supervisors

surveyors.


Sectors

Surveying and spatial information services


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements may impact on this unit. Incorporate these requirements according to state, territory and federal legislation.