NWPTRT042
Assess and improve granular media filters


Application

This unit describes the skills required to evaluate and report on system performance and process quality control and may require the control and coordination of granular media filtration processes used in water and wastewater treatment.

This unit applies to those working as technical staff with responsibility for optimising granular media filtration processes in water or wastewater treatment plants. This role may include coordination or supervision of a work team, or may be performed by a single operator, depending on the size of the treatment plant.

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 manufacturers' specifications.

Those undertaking this unit would work under indirect supervision, while performing complex 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. Assess granular media filtration process performance

1.1 Review existing process performance data.

1.2 Review existing operational processes.

1.3 Identify the impact of incoming water quality on granular media filtration processes.

1.4 Identify any additional sampling and testing required for valid evaluation of current process performance.

2. Investigate granular media filtration plant or equipment operation

2.1 Review existing fault reports and other relevant plant asset information.

2.2 Investigate the operational status of plant components.

2.3 Carry out investigations to identify potential deficiencies.

3. Investigate the operational options for process optimisation

3.1 Review relevant fault and incident reports and remedial actions taken.

3.2 Investigate current media status with reference to manufacturer or plant designer specifications.

3.3 Investigate potential changes to operational processes to identify possible optimisation strategies.

4. Develop and record a plan for process optimisation

4.1 Determine plant configuration or media options and revised operational procedures for process optimisation.

4.2 Plan a trial to test the performance of the determined optimisation options.

4.3 Compile a report making recommendations on optimisation options.

Evidence of Performance

Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. The candidate must be assessed in as least one type of process listed in the Range of Conditions. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.

conducting system investigation and reporting on operational or control system problems

coordinating filter inspection, sampling and testing

conducting trend analysis for long-term filter monitoring

performing calculations to provide data for the analysis and development of options and solutions, including backwash rates and filtration rates

determining filter run and backwash profiles and times

interpreting a range of complex and technical documents, including at least one of:

regulatory, legislative, licensing and organisational requirements

codes and standards

specifications

organisational policies

analysing problems and recommending appropriate remedial solutions

reviewing existing filtration process performance with reference to historical data, initial specifications and differences in incoming water quality

identifying data deficiencies and organising additional data collection through appropriate sampling and testing

assessing faults and incident reports and investigating the status of filtration plant components and media

investigating potential changes to filtration operational processes to identify possible optimisation strategies

planning trials to test the performance of the determined filtration optimisation options

compiling recommendation 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.

principles that form the basis of granular media filtration processes

types of filters and their range of applications, conditions for use and manufacturers’ requirements

backwash principles and optimisation

filter run profiles

the range and performance of filter aids

filter media properties and selection

filter inspection and sampling

principles of filter maintenance, including:

filter cleaning

double backwashes

surface cleaning

lancing

caustic washing

filter ripening and turbidity breakthrough

pilot filters

pumping and valving systems

range of appropriate measuring and testing procedures


Assessment Conditions

Competency will need to be demonstrated over a period of time reflecting the scope of the role and the practical requirements of the workplace, the evidence collected must relate to a number of performances assessed at different points in time and separated by further learning and practice.

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.


Range Statement

Processes include:

gravity filters

pressure filters

continuous backwash processes


Competency Field

Treatment