ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Establish sites for sampling

1.1 Water sampling sites are selected according to council or agency requirements, ensuring representative sites are selected.

1.2 Water monitoring programs are developed for a range of water sampling sites with reference to specific site conditions.

2. Undertake sampling and sample despatch

2.1 Relevant equipment is gathered and prepared for sampling activities.

2.2 Required samples are taken at the specified time and location.

2.3 Integrity of sampling procedures is maintained and required recording is completed in accordance with relevant council guidelines.

2.4 Samples are despatched for testing.

3. Establish and report results

3.1 Confirmation is obtained that testing has been undertaken according to correct procedures as outlined in council public health plan requirements or other operating agreements.

3.2 Results are compiled within agreed time frames and reported to designated officers.

4. Raise and action issues of concern requiring strategic response

4.1 Results that do not comply with water quality guidelines or criteria are raised with appropriate council officers.

4.2 Enquiries are handled according to council procedures and legislative guidelines and discussion with, or release of information to, members of the public is in accordance with agreed communication strategies.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills

preparing, collecting, labelling and preserving water samples

disposing of waste and spent samples correctly

producing reports and logs

planning work activities

working effectively as part of a team

performing task-related calculations

identifying and obtaining resources

following plans and instructions

applying procedures and standards

communicating work requirements

using literacy skills in regard to verbal and written communication in the workplace

using personal protective equipment

maintaining databases

compiling reports

Required Knowledge

types and purposes of water samples

procedures and techniques for water sampling

water sample preparation, including:

prevention of contamination

volume of sample

appropriate containers

preservation

location selection

location maintenance

equipment

transportation

documentation procedures for water samples

chain of custody issues pertinent to water quality investigations, such as outbreaks of Legionella

disposal procedures for waste and excess water samples

task-related calculations

legislative and organisational policies, procedures and standards

communication systems

work planning processes

effects of weather and conditions on work

sampling techniques and protection protocols

relevant local area geography

relevant enterprise licensing regulations

Overview of assessment requirements

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the elements to the required performance level detailed in the performance criteria. The unit's skill and knowledge requirements must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated.

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered

The demonstrated ability to:

take samples from agreed and valid testing sites

ensure sampling methods are in accordance with appropriate guidelines

ensure sampling procedures avoid risk of contamination or misreporting

undertake analysis in accordance with policy and procedures

raise concerns to ensure appropriate response

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated workplace environment.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies

written and oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documentation

third-party reports from experienced practitioners

completion of self-paced learning materials, including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance

Evidence will need to be gathered over a period of time across a range of variables.

Resource implications

Access to a workplace or simulated case study that provides the following resources:

relevant legislation, guidelines, council public health plan, agreements and communication procedures

water sampling equipment and sites

test results

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Water sampling sites may include:

water supplies

watercourses

lakes and beaches

swimming pools and spas

drainage and treatment outlets

cooling towers

Site conditions may include:

water levels

tides

wind

seasonal and other conditions

Equipment may include:

protective equipment

sample bottles

frames and tubes

dip tubes

automatic samplers

Samples may include:

programmed samples

ad hoc samples taken in response to a concern or complaint

grab, composite or flow-weighted composite samples for:

microbiological testing

testing for chemical and physical characteristics

grab, integrated or concentrated samples for blue-green algae:

identification

enumeration

toxicity testing

Sampling procedures must be conducted using consistent and valid methodology, regarding:

sterile containers

location

protection and refrigeration

labelling

storage

safe despatch

record of activity

Recording may include:

word processing

spreadsheets

maintaining databases

diary keeping

storage and backup of records

Council guidelines may include:

public health plan

procedures

legislation

environmental and sustainable practices

joint agency agreements or protocols