Application
This unit describes the skills required to test the environment of confined spaces to ensure safe entry and egress. This includes the preparation for and conduct of the test procedures and all post test procedures.
In the context of this unit, a confined space is any compartment or area that has the capability of accumulating a toxic, flammable or explosive atmosphere, or of being flooded, in addition to one of the following characteristics:
limited opening for access
no escape route or very restricted means of escape
limited natural ventilation
atmosphere containing more than 23.5% or less than 19.5% oxygen
This unit was developed for Defence personnel involved in the testing of confined space environments as a workplace responsibility, but is applicable to all individuals who work in this field.
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 must demonstrate the ability to work independently or as part of a team under indirect supervision. They must be able to use discretion and judgement and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs.They would perform routine tasks in a range of familiar 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. Prepare for environmental testing | 1.1 Identify confined space potential contaminants. 1.2 Identify organisational restrictions or requirements pertinent to the confined space. 1.3 Identify, acquire and prepare equipment and resources required for testing. |
2. Test confined space for contaminants/ threats | 2.1 Obtain testing sample and conduct tests in accordance with testing protocols. 2.2 Record and analyse test results in accordance with testing protocols. |
3. Finalise test/s | 3.1 Complete documentation and reports. 3.2 Clean and refurbish testing equipment. |
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.
accessing, reading, interpreting and applying information on testing
identifying and reporting on contaminants/hazards
operating test equipment
reporting abnormalities
maintaining records/documentation
identifying intervention points for expert advice to assist in work and to guide problem solving
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.
analysis procedures
engineering controls
operating procedures of relevant test equipment
principles of atmospheric monitoring
sampling procedures
testing protocols
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
Work Health & Safety