Application
This unit describes the skills required to operate and control reclaimed water irrigation and the use of reclaimed water for irrigation practices.
This unit applies to those working as staff members with a specific responsibility for analysing the critical aspects of reclaimed water reuse management relating to a project or site and implementing reclaimed water reuse irrigation.
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 indirect supervision, performing routine tasks in a familiar context, ensuring minimum 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. Assess sites for reclaimed water irrigation | 1.1 Identify soil/water interactions and soil properties important for plant growth. 1.2 Identify soil sampling sites, collect samples and conduct soil testing. 1.3 Classify soils using field texture, pH and structure analysis. 1.4 Monitor and determine the water holding capacity of the soil. |
2. Assess quality of reclaimed water for irrigation | 2.1 Sample and test reclaimed water and interpret quality parameters. 2.2 Determine crops suitable for the quality of reclaimed water and site conditions. |
3. Implement reclaimed water irrigation | 3.1 Identify basic features of irrigation systems. 3.2 Operate and maintain irrigation equipment. 3.3 Identify and apply irrigation scheduling options for reclaimed water. 3.4 Produce water budgets using crop factors and climate data. 3.5 Apply irrigation water and collect and monitor tail water or runoff. |
4. Respond to water or soil quality issues | 4.1 Develop irrigation management options to respond to water quality issues. 4.2 Identify and apply requirements and options for soil ameliorants. 4.3 Monitor infiltration and drainage. |
5. Compile reclaimed water irrigation records | 5.1 Compile reports from system data. 5.2 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.
monitoring and managing soil
solving operational problems
accessing, interpreting and applying relevant legislation
apply environmental policies, plans and procedures
assessing environmental risks at the work site
identifying soil groups
using safety and personal protective equipment
sampling and testing soil and water
monitoring, operating and controlling reclaimed water irrigation
analysing critical aspects of reclaimed water reuse management relating to the project or site
implementing reclaimed water reuse irrigation
identifying environment, health and safety risks and impact on soil, stock and operators
applying environmental procedures
participating in and contributing to reviews of reclaimed water reuse procedures
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.
key principles of irrigation practices, including irrigation scheduling
key characteristics of reclaimed water
relevant legislative requirements
standard operating procedures
primary agencies involved in drinking water quality management
water quality performance indicators
an overview of the water supply system
water hazardous agents and preventative strategies
community and agency roles and responsibilities in monitoring water quality
best management practices for the use of reclaimed water for irrigation purposes
reclaimed water usage licensing procedures and requirements
environmental, landscape and ground structure of work area
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
effects of weather and conditions on operation of site or plant
interpretation and use of material safety data sheets
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