Application
This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to perform complex four-wheel drive (4x4) vehicle operations, including operations over rugged terrain and water crossings.
The unit applies to those who operate a four wheel drive in forest and timber processing environments.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements apply to this unit in some states and territories at the time of publication, and may differ according to jurisdiction.
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 complex 4x4 operations | 1.1 Identify and assess types of water crossings and terrain being accessed for safe operating conditions. 1.2 Check that 4x4 vehicle being used is appropriate to conditions and operationally effective in line with manufacturer specifications. 1.3 Identify appropriate range of personal protective equipment (PPE) to be carried for the trip conditions. 1.4 Establish communication with others and choose required safety mechanisms in line with organisational requirements. |
2. Prepare 4x4 vehicle for water crossing | 2.1 Place cover securely across the front of the vehicle when required by water depth. 2.2 Protect electrical connectors, battery terminals and electrical components. 2.3 Check wheel hubs to engage/lock position. 2.4 Select appropriate gear for water crossing. 2.5 Allow vehicle to cool down before entering water |
3. Negotiate water crossing | 3.1 Assess hazards and risks associated with water crossings. 3.2 Determine safety of water crossing. 3.3 Establish and select entry and exit points for crossing in line with current flow and risk assessment. 3.4 Access water crossing to determine depth of water at intended crossing point. 3.5 Monitor the track continually to identify hazards and assess risks. 3.6 Perform water crossing by maintaining a constant bow wave. |
4. Perform check of vehicle operations on completion of water crossing | 4.1 Drain water from 4x4 vehicle back into the water crossing. 4.2 Dry brakes off by gentle application while moving. 4.3 Check engine oils for contamination. 4.4 Check air cleaner elements for water intrusion and assess air intake operational effectiveness. 4.5 Check differential and gear box oils after prolonged periods in the water. |
5. Operate vehicle in rugged terrain | 5.1 Determine intended route prior to departure. 5.2 Inspect intended vehicle path prior to negotiation of rugged terrain. 5.3 Identify potential hazards and risks when operating vehicle in rugged terrain and ensure appropriate response can be applied 5.4 Inspect, position and secure vehicle load to maximise traction for 4x4 driving. 5.5 Set vehicle controls in line with manufacturer specifications and for operation in the rugged terrain. 5.6 Negotiate terrain in line with requirements for specific driving conditions. |
6. Recover vehicle from loss of traction while ascending | 6.1 Determine intended route backwards. 6.2 Use correct brake and engine techniques to reverse vehicle. 6.3 Ensure vehicle comes to a safe stop. |
7. Perform post-trip tasks | 7.1 Notify relevant personnel of trip completion. 7.2 Carry out maintenance on allocated vehicle. 7.3 Record and report activity in line with organisational procedures. |
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 applicable legal and regulatory requirements, and codes of practice relevant to performing complex 4x4 operations
follow organisational policies and procedures relevant to performing complex 4x4 operations
assess the safety and potential hazards of planned water and rugged terrain crossings including consideration of:
assessment of water speed and depth
underwater hazards
debris in water
rocks and other unexpected obstacles
variable water depth and width of crossing
risk of vehicle being swept down the waterway
tidal influences
wet and iced terrain
flooded terrain
fire in vehicle
faulty brakes
leaking fuel
faulty steering mechanism on vehicle
animals and objects in vehicle path
crocodiles and snakes in some areas
windy or foggy sections of terrain
steep slopes
slippery surfaces
land slides
tree limbs
black ice
trailers
safely perform 4x4 operations over rugged terrain and water crossings in line with the conditions and 4x4 operating requirements
select correct gear/range to negotiate terrain
engage and disengage freewheel hubs in line with driving conditions
identify safe locations for entry into and out of a waterway
identify and prepare supplies and resources appropriate to the journey
use correct techniques to safely stop and start on steep terrain
use and maintain relevant tools, machinery and equipment.
Evidence of Knowledge
A person competent in this unit must be able to demonstrate knowledge of:
applicable regulations, standards, codes of practice and established safe practices relevant to the full range of processes when performing complex 4x4 operations
environmental risks and hazards, organisational and site standards, requirements, policies and procedures for performing complex 4x4 operations
road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements of the relevant state or territory
operational knowledge of 4x4 vehicle, including controls, instruments and indicators, and their use
environmental protection requirements relating to 4x4 operations in rugged terrain
organisational and site standards, requirements, policies and procedures for performing complex 4x4 operations
road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements of the relevant state or territory
operational knowledge of 4x4 vehicle, including controls, instruments and indicators and their use
four-wheel drive techniques, including to safely cross water and operate 4x4 vehicle in rugged terrain
vehicle maintenance requirements following water crossings
established communication channels and protocols
vehicle problem identification and common vehicle fault-finding techniques
common vehicle operating problems and appropriate operator response in line with organisational and manufacturer requirements
types of tools and equipment, and procedures for their safe use and maintenance.
Assessment Conditions
The following resources must be made available:
manual or automatic or all wheel drive (AWD) four-wheel drive
access to a water crossing and rugged terrain with safe entry into and out of a waterway, shallow run-ins and a firm base
locations that minimise the impact on the environment
personal protective equipment required for performing complex 4x4 operations.
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: | measure, estimate and calculate time required to complete the task time to complete the task determine if vehicle has sufficient fuel for the task. |
Initiative and enterprise skills to: | apply precautions and required action to minimise, control or eliminate hazards that may exist during work activities. |
Problem-solving skills to: | identify faults and issues associated with performing complex 4x4 operations, and identify solutions. |
Range Statement
Not Applicable
Sectors
Forest Growing and Management
Harvesting and Haulage
Sawmilling and Processing