This unit of competency describes the outcomes required to monitor, operate and control granular media filtration plant, and to measure and report on system performance and process quality control. The ability to identify faults, determine and apply technical adjustments and conduct chemical dosing procedures is essential to performance.

This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for operational staff with a specific responsibility for granular media filtration processes in 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.

Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, while performing routine tasks, within a familiar context.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.

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.

solving operational problems

completing reports and logs

using safety and personal protective equipment

performing process calculations

performing system calculations

identifying control system faults

monitoring test results and processes

identifying and reporting faults

conducting routine plant inspections

taking samples and performing basic tests

making basic process adjustments, including at least one of:

pH correction

filtration rate

backwash settings

filter aid dosing

collecting data and completing required documentation

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.

pressure sand filter hydraulics, gravity sand filter hydraulics, backwash hydraulics

system layout

lockout procedures for mechanical and electrical installations

hazardous materials handling

risk factors and potential hazards relating to granular media filtration processes

equipment operation, capacity and limitations

pumping and valving systems

control systems policies and procedures for storing and handling dangerous goods and chemicals

interpretation and use of material safety data sheets

principles that form the basis of granular media filtration processes

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.

Consideration must be given to holistic assessment for this unit. Refer to advice in the companion volumes.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.

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.

Treatment