Application
This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to navigate in untracked, remote areas in situations where difficult environmental conditions and poor visibility are likely to occur. The unit includes interpretation and use of maps and other navigation aids.
The unit applies to Forestry Worker, Plantation Worker, Forest Harvester, Harvesting Technicial Forestry Technician, Tree Planter, Mobile Equipent Operator, Arboriculture Technician.
No licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and 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. |
1. Prepare for navigation | 1.1 Identify and gather information and relevant factors and check with appropriate personnel. 1.2 Select suitable maps, equipment and navigation aids and check for accuracy, currency and operational effectiveness. 1.3 Detect and correct faults or errors in maps and equipment. 1.4 Establish communication with others in line with WHS and organisational requirements |
2. Plan the route | 2.1 Plan route in line with work instructions and WHS requirements. 2.2 Examine maps to identify relevant symbols, information, navigation data and environmental requirements. 2.3 Calculate accurate grid and magnetic bearings using maps and equipment in line with assignment instructions. 2.4 Plan emergency exit routes and contingencies to combat other risks. |
3. Conduct navigation | 3.1 Undertake navigation in line with planned route and schedule. 3.2 Orientate maps are correctly to surroundings in line with planned route. 3.3 Use equipment and navigation aids in line with manufacturer recommendations. 3.4 Navigate alternative routes to bypass obstacles and improve efficiency of course. 3.5 Minimise impact on the environment as a result of navigation. 3.6 Record and report navigation activities. |
Evidence of Performance
A person demonstrating competency in this unit must satisfy all of the elements, performance criteria and foundation skills of this unit.
follow organisational policies and procedures for navigating in a remote or trackless area
select, interpret, and use maps and other written and diagrammatic information for navigation
use maps, compass and navigation aids to plan routes and navigate in remote or trackless area which must be either:
standard magnetic compass using latitude/longitude and Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate systems
global positioning system (GPS)
cadastral maps (maps that show the boundaries and ownership of land parcels)
topographic maps
general maps
plan and conduct an efficient navigation, effectively bypassing obstacles within designated timeframes
maintain navigation tools and equipment
establish and maintain effective communication with appropriate personnel as required
record navigation activities.
Evidence of Knowledge
A person competent in this unit must be able to demonstrate knowledge of:
regulations, standards, codes of practice and established safe practices for navigating in a remote or trackless area
environmental protection requirements, including the safe disposal of waste material and returning the environment to its original or near to original condition on completion of activity
organisational and site standards, requirements, policies and procedures for navigating in a remote or trackless areas
factors that may affect navigation, including:
types of terrain and gradient
weather conditions
obstacles
distance
estimated travelling time
availability of resources, including water, rest stops, camp sites
access and exit routes
use and features of various maps, images and charts including:
cadastral and topographic maps
charts
guide books
photographs and other digital imagery
sketches
diagrams
representation of topographic features on maps and plans, including:
grid lines and numbers
contour lines
magnetic variation
scale
map legend
local features
markers and beacons
water depth
common scales and reference information used on maps and plans
features and uses of environmental navigation aids:
survey markers
track markers and beacons
signs
arrows
natural landmarks and reference points
purpose, features and operation of navigation equipment, and procedures for their safe use and maintenance, including
global positioning system (GPS) device
magnetic compass, including adjustment for local magnetic variation
locator beacons
personal protective equipment and clothing
techniques for estimating distance travelled within a particular activity context
established communication modes, methods and protocols
procedures for recording and reporting workplace information.
Assessment Conditions
The following resources must be made available:
site to navigate
navigation equipment
work order, workplace requirements and site standards for navigating in remote or trackless areas.
communication devices
Competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated environment that accurately reflects performance in a real workplace setting.
Assessor requirements
Assessors must:
hold the appropriate assessor competency standards as outlined in regulations; and
be able to demonstrate vocational competencies at least to the level being assessed; and
be able to demonstrate how they are continuing to develop their VET knowledge and skills as well as maintaining their industry currency and assessor competence.
Foundation Skills
This section describes those core and employment skills that are essential to performance and are not explicit in the performance criteria. | |
Numeracy skills to: | interpret scales, symbols, grid references, distance and data included on maps and navigation equipment estimate travel time and distances locate own position on a map. |
Planning and organising skills to: | estimate resource and equipment requirements effectively bypass obstacles. |
Problem solving skills to: | identify and solve problems with equipment and navigation route. |
Range Statement
Not Applicable
Sectors
Forest Growing and Management
Harvesting and Haulage
Sawmilling and Processing