NWPTRT073
Operate and control wastewater sedimentation processes


Application

This unit describes the skills required to monitor and operate non-chemically assisted sedimentation processes within domestic and industrial wastewater treatment plants or stormwater systems. The required outcomes also include reporting on the sedimentation system performance and process quality control within these systems.

This unit applies to those working as operational staff with responsibility for checking that sedimentation processes comply with organisational performance requirements.

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 in 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. Plan and prepare for work

1.1 Determine work requirements as outlined in the standard operating procedure.

1.2 Select and check equipment required to meet safety requirements of task and site.

1.3 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment.

2. Monitor and operate sedimentation processes

2.1 Carry out sedimentation process inspections according to type of plant.

2.2 Collect process samples and conduct standard tests.

2.3 Monitor processes to maintain parameters of operation.

2.5 Identify and report process faults and operational condition of plant.

2.6 Carry out basic system adjustments to enhance system performance.

3. Complete documentation

3.1 Collect and report process data.

3.2 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.

performing system calculations

applying procedures and standards

giving and receiving instructions

identifying control system faults and operational problems

using verbal and written communication in the workplace

sampling and testing products

monitoring, operating and reporting on sedimentation processes

conducting routine plant inspections

reporting process and structural faults

performing system adjustments

completing system performance monitoring 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.

principles that form the basis of sedimentation processes

system layout

lockout procedures for mechanical and electrical installations

policies, procedures and legislation relating to wastewater treatment

communication systems

risk factors and potential hazards

basic system calculations

equipment operation, capacity and limitations

effects of changes in hydraulic load on sedimentation 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.

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