Application
This unit of competency describes the skills required to plan and prepare for the construction of open channels or drains and to complete construction operations and subsequent site restoration.
This unit applies to those working as field and operational staff involved in the construction of earthen channels and drains for stormwater or irrigation systems or the remodelling or reconstruction of unserviceable systems.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those related to WHS and manufacturers’ guidelines.
Those undertaking this unit would work under direct supervision, while performing routine tasks and ensuring minimal damage to the environment, in a familiar context.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Plan and prepare for construction work | 1.1 Determine work requirements from design plans, specifications, instructions and work orders. 1.2 Check site and identify hazards. 1.3 Make appropriate drainage and diversion arrangements without damage to environment. 1.4 Check equipment and open-cut excavation methods to ensure that safety requirements of task and site are met. 1.5 Select suitable soil material. |
2. Construct channels or drains | 2.1 Construct earthen channels, drains and batters to planned width, depth and gradient. 2.2 Compact soil, apply additives and take earth samples. 2.3 Check construction works to ensure that specifications are met. |
3. Restore work site and equipment | 3.1 Check, maintain and store equipment, tools and materials. 3.2 Restore work site and add environmental improvements or controls to complete work, according to plans. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
identifying and responding to operational problems
producing reports and logs
using safety and personal protective equipment
using tools and machinery
interpreting plans, charts and instructions
applying procedures and standards
applying channel, drain and batter construction techniques
identifying soil types, mechanics and compaction rates
selecting and operating appropriate compaction plant, including tamping foot and smooth drum roller
operating communication systems
performing work related calculations
constructing open earthen channels and drains
planning work and preparing work site according to given specifications and instructions
cutting channels to specification
compacting soil
taking soil samples
checking that work meets specifications
cleaning and storing equipment
restoring work site
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
channel and drain system design basics
channel and drain system layout
environmental aspects of construction
channel, drain and batter construction processes
measures to reduce channel deterioration, infestation of weeds, pests and seepage
relevant utilities and service providers
safe use of lasers
use of automatic levels
basic levelling techniques
profiles and boning rods
survey principles
soil types, mechanics and compaction rates
capabilities of plant used for construction, including equipment operation, capacity and limitations
communication systems
work related calculations
hazardous materials handling
landscape and ground structure of work area
risk factors and potential hazards of construction processes
effects of weather and conditions on construction site or plant
control systems
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Competency Field
Irrigation