Application
This unit describes the skills required to coordinate and monitor the operation of surface water systems, ensuring that Surface Water Management Plan (SWMP) performance measures are met, environmental issues are addressed and a source of supply is maintained.
This unit applies to those working as field and operational staff with a specific responsibility for ensuring that the operation of surface water systems complies with the requirements of the organisation’s SWMP and with relevant organisational and statutory requirements.
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.
Those undertaking this unit would work independently or in a team, and may be responsible for the coordination of an operational team. They would performing complex tasks ensuring minimum damage to the environment, in a familiar context. However, the level of responsibility may vary according to the size, scope, location, and technical complexity of process.
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. Confirm SWMP performance measures | 1.1 Identify water flow requirements in surface water sources. 1.2 Identify water quality and quantity requirements, including release rates. 1.3 Identify environmental factors that may impact on water flows and quality. 1.4 Identify performance measures for the resource and operations. 1.5 Access historic information and consult stakeholders as required. |
2. Monitor the performance of assets | 2.1 Carry out monitoring and testing programs. 2.2 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment. 2.3 Monitor assets to ensure performance meets specifications in the SWMP. 2.4 Schedule maintenance programs to meet current and potential problems. |
3. Monitor and coordinate processes | 3.1 Test and monitor water usage and quality according to the SWMP. 3.2 Coordinate processes to meet SWMP requirements and targets. 3.3 Take action to optimise system performance. |
4. Report the outcomes of testing and monitoring | 4.1 Analyse, record and report coordination and monitoring data. 4.2 Identify and report current or potential problems. |
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.
interpreting and applying legislation and policies
coordinating measuring and testing activities
consulting with customers and stakeholders
conducting site inspections
assessing environmental impact
coordinating and monitoring the operation of surface water systems
identifying water flow, quality and quantity requirements and any environmental factors that may affect these
identifying surface water system performance measures from the SWMP
accessing historic information
conducting or supervising asset monitoring and testing programs
conducting or supervising testing and monitoring of water usage and water quality
coordinating processes to meet targets and optimise system performance
analysing data, completing records and producing reports
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.
relevant legislation
relevant enterprise policies and procedures
surface water system
customer expectations and requirements
climatic and weather characteristics and impacts
hydraulic analysis
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