This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for competent workplace performance in councils of all sizes. Knowledge of the legislation and regulations within which councils must operate is essential. The unique nature of councils, as a tier of government directed by elected members and reflecting the needs of local communities, must be appropriately reflected.

Prerequisite Unit/s

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Identify waste collection service needs

1.1. The volume and type of waste t o be collected is determined from a review of audited waste stream information.

1.2. The frequency of collection is determined from an assessment of the nature and volume of waste within the community, cost and public health requirements.

2. Identify recoverable waste

2.1. Recoverable waste is clearly defined based on components of the waste stream that can be reused or recycled.

2.2. An inventory of recoverable waste is prepared through an assessment of the waste stream using predetermined definitions.

3. Identify markets for recoverable waste

3.1. Current waste service is reviewed to establish level of local market opportunities.

3.2. Existing local commercial markets are identified and assessed to determine current and future market opportunities.

3.3. Information is obtained on market strategies for recoverable waste.

3.4. Operating cost shortfalls are identified and options are presented to council for resolution.

4. Assess effectiveness of current services

4.1. Quantifiable and comparative performance measures are established to determine if community needs are being met.

4.2. Realistic and achievable performance targets for sorting, processing and recovery methods are established within available resources and local performance expectations.

4.3. Relevant data on current services is collated to enable a comprehensive and statistically valid performance assessment.

5. Identify, evaluate and prioritise service options

5.1. Current industry best practice is identified through a comprehensive review of recognised sources.

5.2. Achievable options to meet needs are specified in accordance with local policy.

5.3. Evaluation criteria are established to meet targets, taking into account local needs and constraints.

5.4. Options are evaluated through an assessment of criteria in an objective manner.

5.5. Options are prioritised so that sorting, processing and recovery needs can be met within favourable cost-benefit ratio.

6. Prepare performance specifications

6.1. Measurable and quantifiable performance criteria are identified based on audit data and results of needs assessment.

6.2. Performance levels are specified to meet waste management strategy targets whilst protecting current activity levels in accordance with local authority requirements.

6.3. Relevant documentation is prepared that incorporates performance levels and protects local interests within local and statutory requirements.

7. Assess submissions to undertake services

7.1. Criteria are established to enable an objective assessment of submissions.

7.2. The impact of statutory and local requirements is considered in assessing submissions.

7.3. Submissions are assessed against criteria to determine the most cost-effective and suitable proposal.

8. Implement service

8.1. All users are advised of service details prior to implementation.

8.2. Required resources to implement the service are procured within budget.

8.3. Sorting and waste-recovery services are planned and scheduled in line with accepted submissions.

8.4. Services are undertaken in terms of agreed service specifications.

9. Monitor and review services

9.1. Data is collected regularly and analysed to provide accurate measures of performance.

9.2. Comparisons are made with agreed service specifications to assess effectiveness.

9.3. Changes to implemented service are made as required in a timely manner to ensure required performance levels are maintained.

9.4. Information obtained during monitoring and review is used to develop new service options that are based on accumulated knowledge and experience.

Hidden text

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

Required Skills

problem solving

presenting options to council

collating and analysing data

researching, reviewing and evaluating options

Required Knowledge

health regulations

dangerous goods

disposal of hazardous materials

materials suitable for recycling or recovery

commercial markets

current markets

legislative requirements relevant to waste collection

strategies for developing performance measures

current industry practices

economic forecasting techniques

public health requirements.

Hidden text

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 knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement 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

Accurate identification of service needs, recoverable waste and potential markets.

Evaluation and prioritisation of service options.

Development of criteria in line with council and statutory requirements.

Monitoring and review of services.

Context of assessment

On the job or in a simulated workplace environment.

Relationship to other units(prerequisite or co-requisite units)

Prerequisite units: nil.

Co-requisite units: nil.

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/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completing 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 collected over time across a range of variables.

Resource implications

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

data on waste

consultation process

copies of relevant legislation and council policies and procedures

service providers and disposal systems.

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.

Waste and recycling collection servicesmay include:

day labour

contract services

kerbside collections

door to door

centralised

transfer station.

Marketsmay include:

domestic

local industry

local commercial

paper recyclers

glass manufacturers.

Recyclable materialmay include:

plastics

oil

aluminium

glass

steel

timber

bricks

concrete

green waste

paper

tyres

textiles

paints

lead

copper

brass

gold

chlorofluorocarbons

food.

Measures of effectivenessmay include:

complaints

enquiries

unit cost

missed services

damaged equipment

community satisfaction

reliability

noise level

regularity

occupational health and safety factors

environmental guidelines

contamination.

Assessment criteriamay include:

ability to perform work

cost

financial stability

previous experience

level of service and support

local preferences

employment opportunities

work practices

industrial relations

level of council control

use of council facilities.

Recoverable wastemay include:

local government associations

recycling cooperatives

commercial recycling operators

regional waste boards

waste authorities.

Hidden text

Unit Sector

Health and Environment

Hidden text

This unit contains employability skills.