This unit is applicable to workers responsible for mixing the full range of chemicals used in fellmongering operations.

Nil

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Prepare chemicals for fellmongering process

1.1. Chemicals for the fellmongering process are removed from storage and transported to area for mixing in accordance with workplace and Occupational Health and Safety (OH&S) requirements.

1.2. Chemicals are mixed and stored in accordance with work instructions, OH&S requirements and manufacturer's specifications.

1.3. Pumps and mixers are operated to workplace and OH&S requirements.

1.4. Chemicals are mixed to workplace and OH&S requirements in accordance with the varying requirements of different types of skins.

1.5. pH readings of the mixed chemicals are taken and checked against specifications.

1.6. Chemicals are used, stored and disposed of in accordance with environmental protection requirements.

Required skills

Ability to:

obtain and cite the Material Safety Data Sheets for the chemicals used and explain how they relate to the use, mixing, storage and disposal of the chemicals

transport chemicals for the fellmongering process to an area for mixing in accordance with workplace and OH&S requirements

mix chemicals in accordance with work instructions, OH&S requirements and manufacturer's specifications

mix chemicals to workplace requirements in accordance with the varying requirements of different types of skins

work efficiently in teams and individually

apply relevant regulatory requirements

take action to improve own work performance as a result of self-evaluation, feedback from others, or in response to changed work practices or technology

use relevant communication skills

Required knowledge

Knowledge of:

OH&S requirements for mixing chemicals

OH&S hazards associated with mixing chemicals

environmental risks and controls related to storing, mixing and disposing of chemicals

protective equipment to be used for each chemical and the emergency procedures related to spills etc

purpose of chemically treating skins in fellmongering

steps in mixing chemicals, the protective equipment needed and safety procedures

use of different mixes of chemicals in fellmongering

relevant regulatory requirements

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

The meat industry has specific and clear requirements for evidence. A minimum of three forms of evidence is required to demonstrate competency in the meat industry. This is specifically designed to provide evidence that covers the demonstration in the workplace of all aspects of competency over time.

These requirements are in addition to the requirements for valid, current, authentic and sufficient evidence.

Three forms of evidence means three different kinds of evidence - not three pieces of the same kind. In practice it will mean that most of the unit is covered twice. This increases the legitimacy of the evidence.

All assessment must be conducted against Australian meat industry standards and regulations.

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

Competency must be demonstrated under normal production conditions and for a range of chemical formulations.

Context of, and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must be conducted in an operational fellmongering plant.

Method of assessment

Recommended methods of assessment include:

quiz of underpinning knowledge

workplace demonstration

workplace referee or third-party report of performance over time.

Assessment practices should take into account any relevant language or cultural issues related to Aboriginality or Torres Strait Islander, gender, or language backgrounds other than English. Language and literacy demands of the assessment task should not be higher than those of the work role.

Guidance information for assessment

A current list of resources for this Unit of Competency is available from MINTRAC www.mintrac.com.au or telephone 1800 817 462.

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.

Chemicals may:

be selected from a variety of different chemicals

be used in different concentrations and mixes according to the requirements of a variety of skins.

Workplace requirements may include:

enterprise-specific requirements

OH&S requirements

Quality Assurance (QA) requirements

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

the ability to perform the task to production requirements

work instructions.

OH&S requirements may include:

enterprise OH&S policies, procedures and programs

OH&S legal requirements

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) which may include:

coats and aprons

ear plugs or muffs

eye and facial protection

head-wear

lifting assistance

mesh aprons

protective boot covers

protective hand and arm covering

protective head and hair covering

uniforms

waterproof clothing

work, safety or waterproof footwear

requirements set out in standards and codes of practice.

Specifications may include:

workplace

customer

grading

treatment

mathematical information

Safety procedures may include:

accident prevention

electrical fault procedures

emergency evacuation procedures

emergency procedures in case of injury

equipment malfunction procedures

hand and arm protection.

Regulatory requirements may include:

hygiene and sanitation requirements

relevant regulations.

Communication skills may include:

applying numeracy skills to workplace requirements

listening and understanding

reading and interpreting workplace-related documentation

sharing information

speaking clearly and directly

working with diverse individuals and groups.

Unit sector

This unit contains employability skills.