Application
This unit of competency describes the skills required to monitor, operate and control fixed film aerobic bioreactor processes, including trickling filters and rotating biological contactors. This unit of competency also describes the outcomes required to measure and report on system performance and process quality control.
This unit supports the attainment of skills and knowledge required for operational staff with a specific responsibility for fixed film aerobic bioreactor 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 safety.
Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, while performing routine 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. Monitor fixed film aerobic bioreactor process performance | 1.1 Monitor test results and processes. 1.2 Identify and report faults and the operational condition of the process. |
2. Operate and control fixed film aerobic bioreactor processes | 2.1 Select and check equipment and tools required to meet safety requirements of task and site. 2.2 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment. 2.3 Carry out routine plant inspections. 2.4 Collect process samples and conduct standard tests. 2.5 Carry out system adjustments and process calculations to enhance system performance. |
3. Complete documentation | 3.1 Collect, interpret and record 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.
identifying and correcting operational and control system problems
taking samples and performing tests:
settling tests
microscopic observation
pH
dissolved oxygen
nutrient analyses, including at least one of:
nitrogen
phosphorus
temperature
completing logs and reports
performing relevant process calculations:
hydraulic and organic loading rates
recirculation ratios
monitoring test results
identifying and reporting faults
conducting routine plant inspections
making basic process adjustments:
pH correction
dissolved oxygen levels
recirculation rates
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.
process layout
features and components of fixed film aerobic bioreactor systems
theory of process operation and monitoring
chemicals used for pH control, odour control, nutrients
flow measurement
risk factors and potential hazards relating to fixed film aerobic bioreactor systems
risk control requirements including safety equipment and material safety data sheets
lockout procedures for mechanical and electrical installations and hydraulic isolation
equipment operation, capacity and limitations
relevant utilities and service bodies
process calculation
hazardous materials handling
chemical and biological principles that form the basis of fixed film aerobic wastewater treatment
types of fixed film processes
recirculation principles
operational problems
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