Application
This unit of competency describes the skills required to manage and conduct surveillance of catchment run-off through dams and other water storage assets with gated spillways for dam/storage operations and flood routing.
This unit applies to those working as field and operational staff with a specific responsibility for the operation of dams and other water storage assets with gated spillways.
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 manufacturer guidelines.
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 flow and flood routing | 1.1 Monitor catchment behaviour during normal and flood conditions. 1.2 Determine outflow using standard flow rate calculations. 1.3 Determine flow control settings. |
2. Plan and prepare for dam or storage operation | 2.1 Plan and prepare for dam or storage operations. 2.2 Conduct inspections. 2.3 Develop hydrograph template. |
3. Implement dam/water storage operation plans | 3.1 Apply operation plans. 3.2 Inspect and test plant and equipment. 3.3 Test, assess and document safety mechanisms. |
4. Regulate flows | 4.1 Plot flood data on hydrograph. 4.2 Regulate flow control mechanisms to maintain safety of asset and required system supply and flood routing. 4.3 Produce data relating to flood performance. |
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.
calculating inflow and outflow rates
interpreting and plotting graphs
operating controls and ancillary equipment
conducting inspections
interpreting plans, drawings, instructions, standard operating procedures, policies and standards
using safety equipment and personal protective equipment
identifying hazards
using equipment and instruments
managing and conducting surveillance of catchment run-off through dams and other water storage assets
operating gated spillways
identifying and investigating operational problems
collecting and analysing technical information
preparing required 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.
properties of stored water
system hydraulics
effects of water and catchment conditions on flow expectations
interrogation of catchment monitoring equipment
water flow measurement
operation of flood gates or plant
control systems
dam operation principles
materials science
communication systems
principles of hydraulics
system layout
environmental aspects of operation and maintenance
lock out procedures for mechanical and electrical installations
control systems
equipment operation
relevant utilities and service bodies
hazardous materials handling
effects of weather and conditions on bulkwater assets
principles of dam inspection
risk management techniques
WHS
organisational and statutory requirements
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
Source