Application
This unit describes the skills required to construct and maintain a range of field structures, such as bunkers, strongpoints, towers and shelters. Construction is usually of a temporary nature and is undertaken employing expedient construction methods using both commercially available and improvised materials. Construction will normally be carried out in a field environment.
This unit was developed for combat arms personnel involved in the construction and maintenance of field structures 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 will usually work as part of a team under supervision, but may undertake some tasks independently. They use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs in a broad range of unpredictable contexts.
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. Plan and prepare work site | 1.1 Select and wear personal protective equipment. 1.2 Conduct site layout and preparation in accordance with approved sketches, drawings, specifications and job instructions. 1.3 Inspect for serviceability and prepare for operation all tools and equipment and report defects to the supervisor. 1.4 Source, prepare and stockpile materials in accordance with work schedule, design specifications and job instructions. |
2. Build and maintain field structures | 2.1 Conduct earthworks for hardstanding, pits and trenches manually, or with plant and operator support, in accordance with specifications and site requirements. 2.2 Position fabricated/pre-fabricated components for assembly. 2.3 Assemble jigs, fixtures and other equipment apply to support construction. 2.4 Erect scaffolding in accordance with job requirements. 2.5 Lay/assemble concrete, bricks/blocks, timber, wire mesh, matting, steel and other materials according to job specifications. 2.6 Conduct horizontal and vertical construction to specification using expedient methods and materials available. 2.7 Camouflage site progressively and maintain concealment. 2.8 Check assembly/construction for compliance with specifications. |
3. Maintain and clean-up site and equipment | 3.1 Maintain, further develop and/or repair field structures to specification. 3.2 Remove from site, clean, service, maintain and store plant, vehicles, tools and other equipment and complete documentation. 3.3 Clear area and dispose of waste material. |
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.
following instructions
reading drawings, plans and sketches
selecting construction materials
measuring relative to the construction process
utilising expedient and improvised methods to construct field structures
reporting information
laying out a site
preparing materials and equipment for construction
applying appropriate expedient construction methods and procedures to the construction including accurate measuring and levelling
using standard processes to handle and place materials
completing the construction of field structures to the specified standard
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.
workplace and equipment safety requirements
materials handling and storage
measurement relative to construction
expedient and improvised construction methods
types and use of field structures
drawings, plans and graphic representation including lettering, symbols tables, charts, specifications
techniques for supporting others
composition of teams and roles and responsibilities of team members
verbal and non-verbal communication techniques including language style, active listening
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be demonstrated under field conditions over a time frame that allows for constructing and maintaining a number of field structures utilising expedient construction methods and a variety of materials. Assessment should include construction of at least three types of field structures, at least one above and one below ground structure.
Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment.
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