NWPTRT043
Operate and control membrane filters


Application

This unit of competency describes the skills required to monitor, operate and control membrane filtration plant, including micro and ultrafiltration, 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 applies to operational staff members with a specific responsibility for membrane 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, particularly those relating to WHS.

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.


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 membrane filtration 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.

1.3 Select, fit and use required safety equipment, including personal protective equipment.

2. Control chemical use

2.1 Use, handle and store chemicals.

2.2 Determine chemical dosing.

2.3 Maintain chemical supply and usage records.

3. Operate and control membrane filtration process

3.1 Carry out routine plant inspections.

3.2 Conduct and analyse process tests and determine performance against plant operational requirements.

3.3 Make integrated process adjustments to improve system performance.

4. Complete documentation

4.1 Collect and record 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.

identifying and correcting operational problems

producing reports and logs

performing system calculations

identifying control system faults

monitoring test results and processes

identifying and reporting faults

taking samples and performing basic tests

making basic process adjustments, including at least one of:

pH correction

backwash frequency

clean in place cycles

collecting data and 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

system processes

lockout procedures for mechanical and electrical installations

hazardous materials handling

risk factors and potential hazards involved with membrane filtration processes

interpretation of safety data sheets

equipment operation, capacity and limitations

pumping and valving systems

mechanical and electrical control systems

principles that form the basis of membrane filtration processes for water or wastewater treatment


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

Treatment