The unit applies to identifying the structure and functions of the foot and how normal footwear design features meet these requirements. The unit does not cover abnormal anatomy or medical conditions affecting feet. The retailing, alteration and manufacture of footwear for clients needing shoes or prostheses for surgical and medical conditions are covered by the Medical Grade Footwear units and qualifications.

The unit applies to small manufacturers making footwear by hand and dealing direct with the public.

Work may involve individual and team activities.

The application of this unit is according to OHS practices of the enterprise and workplace practices, which may include:

requirements prescribed by legislation, awards, agreements and conditions of employment

standard operating procedures

work instructions

oral, written and visual communication

quality practices, including responsibility for maintenance of own work quality and contribution to quality improvement of team or section output

housekeeping

tasks related to environmental protection, waste disposal, pollution control, and recycling

This unit applies skills in problem solving to determine and apply foot anatomy principles. Learning and self management are required relate principles to footwear characteristics and the impact of footwear on foot functioning. Teamwork and communication skills are required in order to refer foot conditions to suitable practitioners as required.

Prerequisites

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1 Describe the structure and functions of the foot

1.1 The main foot structures are identified.

1.2 Functions of main foot muscles are described.

1.3 Functions of main tendons and ligaments in foot are described.

1.4 The main functions of foot are identified.

2 Describe the main features and functions of footwear

2.1 Types of footwear are identified and their uses described.

2.2 Footwear features are described.

2.3 Processes used to produce footwear features are described.

2.4 Instances where specialised footwear may be required are identified.

3 Assess the impact of footwear features

3.1 The effect of poor-fitting or poorly made shoes is described.

3.2 Features of footwear are related to foot function and structure.

3.3 Footwear product is assessed for its capacity to support ideal performance of foot.

3.4 Referral to a medical practitioner, podiatrist or medical grade footwear practitioner is suggested if a surgical or medical footwear condition is suspected.

3.5 Quality processes used in workplace to ensure production of optimal footwear products are identified.

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

Demonstrates knowledge of:

types and uses of footwear

OHS practices, including hazard identification and control measures

quality practices

workplace practices

recording and reporting practices

Demonstrates skills to:

read, interpret and follow information on work specifications, standard operating procedures and work instructions, and other reference material

maintain accurate records

clarify and check task-related information

The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects of evidence

Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:

identify foot structure

identify functions of the foot

identify special requirements for footwear

Consistency in performance

Consistently applies skills and knowledge when:

organising work

completing tasks according to instructions

working systematically with attention to detail according to instructions

identifying improvements and avoiding damage

using workplace practices

using OHS practices

recording and reporting accidents and incidents

assessing operational readiness of equipment

recognising and adapting to cultural differences in the workplace, including modes of behaviour and interactions

Resource implications

Access is required to real or appropriately simulated situations, including work areas, materials and equipment, and to information on workplace practices and OHS practices.

Context for assessment

Assessment may occur on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment.

Interdependent assessment

This unit may be assessed independently or in combination with other relevant units.

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, if used in the Performance Criteria, is detailed below. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs if the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Legislative/regulatory requirements

All work must comply with relevant Federal and State or Territory legislative or regulatory requirements.

Foot structures may include:

muscles

bones

ligaments

joints

nervous system

Functions may include:

balance

walking

standing

running

climbing

specific sports

kicking

jumping

Types of footwear may include:

safety boots

work boots and shoes

fashion shoes

everyday wear shoes

walking boots and shoes

sport shoes

Footwear features may include:

steel caps

moulded soles

heels

reinforcement

lining

laces and buckles

elastic sides

size

shape

Processes may include:

designing

developing patterns and lasts

stitching

selection of materials

manufacture of uppers, inner soles, linings, soles

quality checks

Instances may include:

injuries

health conditions such as diabetes

amputations

diseases affecting the foot or ankle

sizing

foot muscle and structural features

deformities

Specialised footwear may be required for:

flat feet

size difference

wide feet

Sector

Footwear Production

This unit contains employability skills.