FBPOPR2028
Operate a mixing or blending process


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to combine ingredients and additives in the correct quantities and sequence, and to operate and shut down mixing and blending equipment to achieve the required mix characteristics.

This unit applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy in the food processing industry. Mixes may include concentrated pre-mixes or bulk blends. The output of this process may be a product requiring further processing or for external use.

All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, in accordance with State/Territory food safety, and work health and safety, regulations and legislation that apply to the workplace.

No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this 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.

1. Prepare for work in processing area

1.1 Confirm materials are available to meet production requirements

1.2 Wear appropriate personal protective clothing and ensure correct fit according to work health and safety requirements

1.3 Prepare pre-mixes according to food safety and job requirements

1.4 Identify and confirm cleaning and maintenance requirements and status

2. Prepare the mixing or blending equipment and process for operation

2.1 Fit machine components and related attachments and adjust to meet operating requirements

2.2 Enter processing or operating parameters to meet production requirements

2.3 Check equipment performance and adjust according to operating requirements

2.4 Perform pre-start checks according to operator instructions

3. Operate and monitor the mixing or blending process

3.1 Deliver ingredients and additives to the mixer in the required quantities and sequence to meet recipe specifications

3.2 Start, operate and monitor the process for variation in operating conditions according to work health and safety and operating procedures

3.3 Monitor the mixing process to confirm that specifications are met

3.4 Identify, rectify and report out-of-specification equipment, product or process outcomes according to workplace requirements

3.5 Transfer mix to required production or storage location according to food safety and workplace procedures

3.6 Follow and apply workplace cleaning and environmental procedures

4. Shut down the mixing or blending process

4.1 Identify the appropriate shutdown procedure

4.2 Shut down the process safely according to operating procedures

4.3 Identify and report maintenance requirements according to workplace procedures

4.4 Maintain workplace records in required format

Foundation Skills

This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.

Skill

Description

Reading

Interpret workplace and standard operating procedures relevant to job role

Interpret production requirements

Writing

Record operating, routine maintenance and shutdown information on paper-based and electronic media

Numeracy

Monitor and interpret production and process control indicators and data

Monitor supply and flow of materials to and from the process

Navigate the world of work

Apply workplace procedures to own role and responsibilities

Identify skills, knowledge and experience required for performing own role in the workplace

Ask questions to clarify understanding or seek further information

Interact with others

Communicate and report operational and safety information to relevant personnel

Use modes of communication suitable to purpose to confirm understanding when conducting operational start-up and shutdown procedures

Get the work done

Access and interpret process control panels and system

Maintain a clean and hazard-free work area

Identify out-of-specification standards and maintain quality specifications

Confirm equipment status and condition

Interpret process and equipment information to monitor process and respond to abnormal performance and variations


Sectors

Operational (OPR)