Application
This unit describes the skills required to operate small watercraft. The watercraft will normally be operated in an environment of protected or calm inland waterways, conducting a range of tasks including the transport of personnel and/or equipment.
Examples of small watercraft may include:
motorised and non-motorised boats up to five metres in length capable of accommodating a maximum ten personnel and the operator and crewman
motorised and non-motorised rigid and non-rigid inflatable craft
powered by outboard motors of up to 40 hp
motorised and non-motorised bridge and ferry construction craft
While the technical aspects of this competency are concerned with ‘operating a boat’, the specialisation of the skill, and safety issues associated with waterborne operations confer additional responsibilities upon the operator.
This unit applies to those working as combat arms personnel required to operate small watercraft in a deployed operational environment, but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.
Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision but may need to provide directions. They must demonstrate sound judgement in the use of authority, and where possible, work within the existing lines of authority. They would perform routine tasks in a broad range of contexts, such as protected or calm inland waterways or in a threat environment.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | 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 section. |
1. Prepare for watercraft operations | 1.1 Interpret operating instructions to determine the task, the cargo, the destination and route, and compile navigation data. 1.2 Complete hasty buoyancy/floatation calculations to ensure passengers and cargo are safe to move. 1.3 Select and check equipment is for serviceability and replace or reject unserviceable items, and report to the supervisor. 1.4 Conduct shore preparation and ensure watercraft is ready for launch. 1.5 Select and apply personal protective equipment. 1.6 Conduct a safety briefing for passengers and crew prior to embarking on watercraft operations. |
2. Control operation of small watercraft | 2.1 Construct improvised flotation craft, when required, in accordance with technical specifications and supervisor’s instructions. 2.2 Launch in accordance with standard procedures and local conditions. 2.3 Load and trim watercraft to ensure safety of crew and load. 2.4 Operate watercraft consistent with hazards and environmental conditions. 2.5 Direct passengers in order to maintain safety and efficient boat operation. 2.6 Carry out contingency and emergency drills to minimise threat to personnel and equipment. 2.7 Disembark and/or unload personnel and/or loads. |
3. Recover and restore vessel | 3.1 Recover watercraft from a ramp or improvised landing site. 3.2 Check, clean and service watercraft and associated equipment, report defects and complete documentation. 3.3 Debrief staff and/or management. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
using knots and lashings
monitoring hazards and applying safety principles to operations
calculating and recording number and weight of passengers, stores and equipment
carrying both equipment and personnel
managing the full range of contingency and emergency actions
providing directions to personnel within the boat concerning specific safety matters such as seating, movement and actions on incidents including man overboard and capsize
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
applicable statutory waterways rules for watercraft operation
local water hazards and environmental conditions
effects of water moving over objects and obstacles
hasty buoyancy/floatation calculations
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
Military Skills