Application
This unit describes the skills required to monitor and maintain the operation of wastewater vacuum collection systems and to measure and report on the operation of the system. The ability to interpret technical documentation and identify and investigate operational problems is essential to performance.
This unit applies to those working as field and operational staff with responsibility for ensuring that the vacuum sewer system performs effectively.
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 independently or in a team while performing routine tasks in range of familiar contexts, 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. Plan and prepare for work | 1.1 Determine work requirements for monitoring vacuum sewer systems from plans, specifications and instructions. 1.2 Select and check equipment, documentation and tools to meet safety and work requirements of task and site. 1.3 Inform affected customers and stakeholders of the task to be carried out. 1.4 Obtain all permits necessary to complete the work. 1.5 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment. 1.6 Visit and investigate the site. |
2. Maintain vacuum pump station | 2.1 Conducting housekeeping duties for the vacuum station building. 2.2 Check and monitor vacuum pumps, wastewater pump out and performance of odour control systems to ensure the specifications are met and make adjustments. 2.3 Complete pump station workplace records for all pumps and instruments. |
3. Investigate faults in vacuum sewer system | 3.1 Identify and record links between operational problems and maintenance activities. 3.2 Investigate and control the operational status of system components with reference to manufacturer and supplier specifications. 3.3 Ensure system is returned to operational mode. |
4. Compile process records | 4.1 Compile reports from system data. 4.2 Record the condition of equipment and report faults and anticipated 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.
responding to and correcting operational problems
producing reports and logs
using safety equipment and personal protective equipment
identifying and investigating operational problems
collecting and basic analysing of data
interpreting plans, charts, service search diagrams and instructions and specifications
interpreting policies, standard operating procedures and standards
communicating with colleagues and customers
operating control systems
identifying control system faults
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.
coordination and control of processes
collection system layout
system processes
environmental aspects of vacuum systems
disinfection and chemical use during maintenance operations
safety procedures
lock out procedures for mechanical and electrical installations
policies, standard operating procedures and legislation
relevant utilities and service bodies
communication systems
risk factors and potential hazards involved with wastewater vacuum systems
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
effects of weather and conditions on operation of wastewater vacuum systems
pipes and fittings
pumping and valving systems
control systems
vacuum station odour control methods
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