FWPHAR3206
Conduct forwarder operations


Application

This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to segregate, stack, transport, load and unload logs with a forwarder. Other functions may include loading and unloading of other materials.

The unit applies to those who conduct forwarder operations in a forest environment.

Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit in some state 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. Plan and prepare for forwarder operations

1.1 Review work order and clarify with appropriate personnel.

1.2 Plan to adhere with site environmental protection measures.

1.3 Assess type and quantity of material to be moved with forwarder and prepare for safe work.

1.4 Select appropriate equipment and check for operational effectiveness.

2. Operate forwarder

2.1 Carry out pre start-up checks on equipment, in line with manufacturer's recommendations and site requirements.

2.2 Establish and maintain communication with others on site to ensure safe work.

2.3 Detect site hazards associated with forwarder operations and use safe operating techniques to minimise risk

2.4 Operate forwarder and any attachments within recommended capacities and limitations, and manoeuvre to ensure safe and efficient operations.

2.5 Monitor and adjust operating techniques to meet work requirements and site conditions.

2.6 Follow emergency plan in line with WHS, environmental, legal and site requirements

3. Segregate and stack logs

3.1 Identify requirements for landing and stacking logs from work order and clarify.

3.2 Visually assess logs delivered to landing and direct to appropriate location for further processing or stacking.

3.3 Locate stacks to ensure appropriate space for access by site equipment and the safe conduct of other landing operations.

3.4 Position and construct log stacks to provide stability and minimise problems from slippage and falling of logs.

3.5 Maintain log stacks in line with planned layout and site requirements.

4. Load, transport and unload logs

4.1 Position forwarder for safe access to logs and within reach and movement limits.

4.2 Estimate log weight and segregate by size and grade.

4.3 Mark logs unable to be determined for size or grade, for assessment by others, and report to appropriate personnel.

4.4 Systematically lift and place logs in line with recommended equipment operating procedures.

4.5 Place logs to meet positioning and stability requirements for transportation, using slippers or chocks where required.

5. Carry out machine operator maintenance

5.1 Park and shut-down forwarder in line with organisational requirements

5.2 Conduct visual inspection and fault finding processes.

5.3 Remove and replace defective parts safely and effectively in line with manufacturer's instructions.

5.4 Clean and carry out routine operational servicing on forwarder and attachments.

5.5 Clear work area and dispose of or recycle waste materials in line with site environmental management plan.

5.6 Record and report forwarder operations and maintenance in line with site 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. If a specific volume or frequency is not stated below, then evidence must be provided that the following requirements have been performed on at least one occasion:

plan, prepare and carry out forwarder operations to safely and efficiently segregate and stack logs

safely and effectively load, transport and unload logs

maintain log stacks by:

providing for anticipated stock levels

assessing stock rotation requirements

assessing size

segregation of lengths, species and grades

follow work order and site requirements for conducting forwarder operations

operate forwarder safely and effectively within equipment capabilities and limitations

determine capacity and limitations of equipment by considering:

efficient and safe operating speed

duration of operation

type of activities performed

weight and/or load limitations

operating limitations

adjust operating techniques in response to site conditions

establish communication with other personnel and monitor their movements to maintain safety on site

conduct pre and post operational checks, routine cleaning and operational servicing of equipment

record and report operational and maintenance activities.


Evidence of Knowledge

A person competent in this unit must be able to demonstrate knowledge of:

workplace requirements and site standards for carrying out forwarder operations

environmental protection measures which limit the impact of:

general forest lean

wind speed and direction

fallen trees

density of trees

ground slope

ground hazards

obstacles

operational procedures and checks including start-up and shut-down procedures

established communication channels and protocols to maintain safety

processes for managing risks and hazards associated with forwarder operations including:

uneven/unstable terrain

trees

fires

overhead and underground services

bridges

buildings

excavations

traffic

embankment

cuttings

structures and hazardous materials

operating and maintaining forwarder, attachments and ancillary equipment, in line with manufacturer’s instructions

workplace health and safety requirements, fire protocols and emergency evacuation procedures

procedures for recording and reporting forwarder operations and maintenance.


Assessment Conditions

The following resources must be made available:

forwarder (wheeled or half-track with blade attachment)

a site with logs to be process

personal protective equipment required for conducting forwarder operations

work order containing instructions for the operation of a forwarder and its respective tasks including logs to be handled, workplace requirements and site standards for carrying out forwarder operations

relevant personnel for the purposes of communicating information

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:

determine construction of stable log stack

estimate the weight logs to determine lifting requirements and compliance to load plate.

Communication skills to:

interact verbally and non-verbally using hand signals and agreed gestures with others on site to ensure safe and effective forwarder operations.

Reading skills to:

interpret site requirements, environmental information and manufacturer’s instructions.

Problem solving skills to:

to identify equipment problems and faults and find solutions to rectify.


Range Statement

Not Applicable


Sectors

Harvesting and Haulage