Application
This unit describes the skills required to monitor and operate network systems including planning and preparing work site and monitoring performance and usage of distribution.
This unit applies to those working as field and operational staff with responsibility for the water distribution systems and practical delivery, monitoring and regulation of reticulated water distribution services.
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.
Those undertaking this unit would work under indirect supervision, while performing routine tasks, in a familiar context, ensuring minimum damage to the environment.
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. Establish system constraints and plan and prepare work site | 1.1 Conduct risk assessment for environmental, safety and water quality factors. 1.2 Determine system layout and operational problem areas from specifications or instructions. 1.3 Plan work required to operate and adjust water reticulation system. 1.4 Select and check equipment and personal protective equipment to meet safety requirements of task and site. 1.5 Identify and locate isolation valves and hydrants. 1.6 Collect and report data on system performance and usage. |
2. Operate pump station | 2.1 Identify and set or adjust pump station components. 2.2 Check and report on reservoir. 2.3 Identify system faults and adjust as required. |
3. Monitor performance and usage of distribution systems | 3.1 Identify fluctuations in supply, system changes, community demands and water quality complaints. 3.2 Collect and report data on system performance and usage. 3.3 Collect and record water samples and monitor water quality. |
4. Regulate flow and pressure and identify issues | 4.1 Inspect flow regulating systems and adjust to meet demand requirements. 4.2 Regulate and divert flows to facilitate repair or emergency activities. 4.3 Monitor and adjust pressure to meet optimum delivery. 4.4 Investigate and report pressure fluctuations. 4.5 Document and report reticulation and distribution information. |
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
collecting data
producing reports and logs
using tools and machinery
following plans, charts and instructions
performing work-related calculations
installing and operating a stand pipe or fire plug
recording water losses
identifying system faults
identifying hazards
implementing remedial action to maintain supply
operating reticulation and distribution systems
identifying conditions of system
preparing work site
monitoring system performance and usage
monitoring and diverting flow
monitoring and regulating pressure
collecting samples
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.
impact of the principles of hydraulics on the operation of flows
system layout and performance
standard operating procedures
water hammer
water quality and disinfection requirements
environmental aspects of operation
electrical safety for disconnecting and changing meters and fittings
lock out procedures for mechanical and electrical installations
risk factors and potential hazards of operating water distribution systems
conditions for connection to live water mains
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
effects of weather and conditions on systems, site or plant
control systems
water pumping stations and reservoirs
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
Networks