NWPNET041
Monitor and operate water distribution systems


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills required to monitor and coordinate the operation of bulkwater or water distribution systems and to measure and report on the operation of the system. The ability to interpret technical documentation, identify and investigate operational problems and to collect and analyse technical information is essential to performance.

This unit applies to those working as field staff and operators with a specific responsibility for inspecting and measuring the performance of bulkwater or water distribution systems and for ensuring that flow, pressure and volume parameters are regulated according to organisational specifications and system demands.

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 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. Monitor system performance and usage

1.1 Select and check equipment required for monitoring system performance.

1.2 Schedule and conduct routine inspections and report any identified faults.

1.3 Collect, analyse and report system performance data.

1.4 Monitor sample collection and records.

2. Regulate flow, pressure and volume

2.1 Inspect and adjust flow regulating systems.

2.2 Monitor and adjust pressures and volumes.

2.3 Monitor flows and diversions required for repair or emergency activities.

3. Operate and control distribution processes

3.1 Control distribution processes to maintain the required parameters of operation.

3.2 Conduct flow measurements.

3.3 Identify, address and report process faults.

3.4 Optimise process performance.

4. Compile process reports

4.1 Compile reports from system data.

4.2 Record the condition of equipment and report faults or 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

interpreting plans, charts, service search diagrams, instructions, policies and specifications

controlling system operations

identifying control system faults

monitoring and coordinating the operation of bulkwater or water distribution systems

interpreting a range of technical documentation

identifying and investigating operational problems

collecting and analysing technical information

conducting routine inspections

analysing and reporting system performance data

meeting organisation standards for optimising water distribution performance


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.

system hydraulics

coordination and control of processes

system layout and processes

environmental aspects of bulkwater and water distribution systems

chemical use

policies, standard operating procedures and legislation

relevant utilities and service bodies

communication systems

risk management principles

risk factors and potential hazards involved with water pressures and flows

equipment operation, capacity and limitations

effects of weather and conditions on operation of bulkwater and water distribution systems

types of pipes and fittings

pumping and valving systems

control systems

forces including gravitational, valve operation, hydraulic and pumps


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