Application
This unit describes the skills required to operate and control nutrient removal processes to measure and report on system performance and process quality control. The ability to identify faults, determine and apply technical adjustments is essential to performance.
This unit applies to those working as operational staff with a specific responsibility for nutrient removal.
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.
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 from job specifications and plans. 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. Operate and control processes | 2.1 Carry out routine inspection on assets. 2.2 Collect process samples. 2.3 Carry out routine tests. 2.4 Prepare samples for laboratory testing. 2.5 Identify and report process faults and operational condition of assets. 2.6 Carry out basic process adjustments to enhance process performance. 2.7 Monitor processes to maintain parameters of operation. |
3. Complete documentation | 3.1 Collect, record and complete process data. 3.2 Identify data that falls outside normal parameters and report for further action. |
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 at least one of the processes 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.
completing logs
determining chemical dosing requirements
identifying and reporting faults
conducting routine plant inspections
applying basic formulae, including at least one of:
chemical dosing
recycled flows
mixed liquor recycle
taking samples and performing basic tests, including at least one of:
nitrogen
ammonia
nitrate
total nitrogen
ortho-phosphorus
mixed liquor suspended solids
pH
solids analysis
jar testing
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.
basic biology and chemistry that applies to the process
nutrient removal principles
relevant hazards and risks factors
chemicals used for pH, nutrient removal
basic hydraulics
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.
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.
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: | chemical nutrient removal biological nutrient removal |
Competency Field
Treatment