Application
This unit describes the skills required to operate and monitor the performance of pump stations in water and wastewater systems and undertake minor maintenance, or organise more complex maintenance, of pump stations. This may include minor maintenance tasks, including gland adjustment, packing replacement and the replacement of some fittings.
This unit applies to those working as staff with specific responsibility for ensuring that pump stations operate according to organisational 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, maintenance standards and manufacturer specifications.
Those undertaking this unit would work under indirect supervision, while performing routine tasks in a familiar context, ensuring minimal 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 work | 1.1 Determine pump station work requirements from standard operating and maintenance procedures. 1.2 Perform site check to prevent damage to other utilities and the environment. 1.3 Select and check equipment to meet safety requirements of task and site. 1.4 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment. 1.5 Handle, use and store chemicals. |
2. Operate pump stations | 2.1 Identify and set or adjust pump station components. 2.2 Carry out routine security inspections and cleaning duties. 2.3 Operate pump station. |
3. Maintain pump stations | 3.1 Inspect pump station components and identify maintenance needs. 3.2 Schedule maintenance tasks, order appropriate materials and conduct maintenance tasks. 3.3 Identify and report pump station faults and carry out minor repairs. |
4. Monitor and adjust pump station performance | 4.1 Apply pump station performance targets. 4.2 Identify and apply monitoring points and timing. 4.3 Monitor pump station and adjust, where necessary, to maintain operational parameters. |
5. Check outsourced maintenance work | 5.1 Check that completed maintenance and repairs meet specifications. 5.2 Check return of pumping station to service. |
6. Finalise work | 6.1 Check, maintain and store equipment, tools and materials. 6.2 Restore work site. 6.3 Maintain workplace records as required. |
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.
operating and maintaining pumps and pumping stations
identifying system faults, operational problems and hazards
implementing remedial action
operating service
responding to operational problems
collecting data
producing reports and logs
using safety and personal protective equipment
using tools and machinery
following plans and instructions
performing work-related calculations
using communication systems
planning and preparing for work, including selecting equipment and chemicals
conducting a security inspection
monitoring and adjusting pump station performance
checking quality of outsourced maintenance work
finalising work, including completing documentation
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 basics, including suction and lift
system layout
principles and purpose of pump operation
WHS requirements
types of pump and their operational function
pump and pump station operation and maintenance procedures and standards
principles affecting selection of pump station monitoring points and timing of monitoring activities
environmental aspects of operation
lock-out procedures for mechanical and electrical installations
relevant utilities and service bodies
communication systems
hazardous materials handling
risk factors and potential hazards of operating wastewater transfer systems
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
effects of weather and conditions on system
control systems
pump station components
high and low voltage requirements
effect of lightning strikes
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