Application
This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to monitor, operate and control sedimentation and clarification plant; and to measure and report on system performance and process quality control. The ability to identify faults, determine and apply technical adjustments, conduct chemical dosing procedures and produce technical reports are essential to performance.
This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for operational staff with a specific responsibility for sediment and clarification processes in water treatment plants.
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 relating to safety.
Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, while performing routine tasks, within a range of familiar contexts.
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 sedimentation and clarification plant performance | 1.1 Monitor test results and processes to maintain the parameters of operation. 1.2 Identify and report process faults and the operational condition of plant. |
2. Control chemical use | 2.1 Use, handle and store chemicals. 2.2 Prepare and apply chemical dosing. 2.3 Maintain chemical supply and usage records. |
3. Operate and control sedimentation and clarification processes | 3.1 Carry out routine plant inspections. 3.2 Collect process samples and conduct standard tests. 3.3 Perform process calculations associated with sedimentation and clarification processes. 3.4 Carry out system adjustments to enhance system performance. |
4. Complete documentation | 4.1 Collect and report process data. 4.2 Report observations outside defined parameters for further action. |
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.
producing reports and logs
performing process calculations
preparing and applying chemical dosing
identifying control system faults
sampling and testing products
conducting routine plant inspections
taking samples and performing basic tests
making basic system adjustments
completing required 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 layout
lockout procedures for mechanical and electrical installations
relevant utilities and service bodies
settling aids
theory of enhanced particle settling including chemical and physical processes
hazardous materials handling
environment, landscape and ground structure of work area
risk factors and potential hazards relating to water and/or wastewater treatment
chemical dosing processes
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
effects of weather and conditions on operation of site or plant
pumping and valving systems
control systems’ policies and procedures for storing and handling dangerous goods and chemicals
SDS
coagulation/flocculation theory and operation
chemical and/or biological principles that form the basis of sedimentation and clarification processes
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.
Some components of this unit require assessment in a workplace environment therefore the unit is not suitable for fully external or electronic based assessment.
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
Treatment