The unit applies to the maintenance activities associated with water reticulation systems and includes water testing for microbial, acidic, and/or alkaline levels of tower water.

Band: A

Unit Weight: 2

Path 1

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Apply principles of Australian Standard 3666 or equivalent

1.1. Causes of corrosion, scale, algae and treatment/prevention can be explained.

1.2. Air distribution of cooling towers can be explained.

2. Assess reticulation system

2.1. Relevant water conditions are assessed against specifications using standard procedures and test equipment.

2.2. Condition of water circulation system is assessed and appropriate action determined.

2.3. Performance of regulating, filtering, conditioning/dosing and pumping systems is assessed against specification.

3. Measure relevant water properties

3.1. Test equipment is correctly used and applied.

3.2. Water properties are accurately determined/recorded.

4. Maintain reticulation/treatment systems

4.1. Water temperature control system is recorded and non-compliances are reported.

4.2. Dosing is adjusted to specification.

4.3. Faults are reported to appropriate personnel according to standard operating procedures.

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

planning and sequencing operations

reading, interpreting and following information on written job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures, charts, lists, drawings and other applicable reference documents

checking and clarifying task-related information

testing the condition of the water in the cooling tower/treatment system

testing dosing components for correct operation/performance

testing water properties using appropriate techniques and equipment

checking for conformance to specifications

determining and recording test results

adjusting dosing flow in the system to specification

reporting system faults to appropriate personnel

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

causes of corrosion, scale and algae

methods of treating/preventing occurrence of corrosion, scale and/or algae in water cooling towers and treatment systems

the air flow patterns of cooling towers

the testing requirements of AS 3666 and/or other relevant regulations relating to water cooling towers

precautions for preventing contamination of systems by legionella bacteria

procedures for testing the condition of the water in the cooling tower

specifications of the water condition

variations of the test results from specification

procedures to be followed when water condition varies from specification

the correct operation/performance of the following system components: regulators, filters, conditioners and pumps related to treatment systems

performance tests for treatment system components

water properties to be tested

procedures for testing water properties

test equipment and techniques

water temperature specifications

procedures for reporting system faults

codes and regulations relevant to maintaining water treatment systems

hazards and controls associated with maintaining water cooling towers and treatment systems, including housekeeping

safe work practices and procedures

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to maintain water cooling towers and treatment systems. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with maintaining water cooling towers and treatment systems or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment

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. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Relevant water conditions

Acidity

Alkalinity

Microbial

Corrosion

Unit sector

Occupational health and safety

This unit contains employability skills.