PMASUP246A
Disconnect and reconnect non-flared tube fitting joints

This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge needed to disconnect and reconnect non-flared tube fitting joints using hand tools. It also includes solving problems with non-flared tube jointing processes and equipment.

Application

This unit applies to an operator who has a responsibility for disconnecting and reconnecting non-flared tube fitting joints (e.g. for isolation purposes) in accordance with procedures. The operator would further:

ensure they were working within their skill level

ensure the nature of the intervention was clearly understood before work commenced

make certain the site was accessible and safe and that all necessary authorities had been obtained

monitor the progress of the work and refer any escalation

recommission the tube fitting joint after the work and inspection is completed.

This unit applies to an individual working alone or as part of a team or group and working in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator as appropriate.

It may be appropriate to access other units with this unit, such as:

PMASUP244A Prepare and isolate plant

This unit does not cover the initial installation of tube fittings, high pressure fittings or cone fittings.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

1

Plan and prepare for job

1.1

Identify work requirements

1.2

Inspect job site

1.3

Confirm isolations have been completed to standard

1.4

Confirm hazard controls

1.5

Coordinate with appropriate personnel

1.6

Select appropriate tools

1.7

Re-check that work requirements fit within skill level

1.8

Complete checklists and records as required

2

Disconnect tube fitting in accordance with procedures

2.1

Implement hazard controls

2.2

Prepare tools, drip trays, and so on with appropriate care

2.3

Undo support clamps as required

2.4

Vent as required

2.5

Break joint and drain tube as required

2.6

Identify any skills escalation required

2.7

Manage open tube

2.8

Complete checklists and records as required

3

Inspect tube and components

3.1

Inspect fittings and tube

3.2

Assess degree of misalignment and refer if required

3.3

Clean fittings as required

3.4

Identify any damage or defects

3.5

Confirm compliance of components and refer as required

3.6

Identify any problems and take appropriate action

4

Reconnect tube fitting in accordance with procedures

4.1

Check components are to specification

4.2

Apply sealants/seals as required

4.3

Assemble the joint to procedures

4.4

Re-check alignment

4.5

Reattach support clamps as required

4.6

Complete checklists and records as required

5

Finish the job

5.1

Make a final check of joint alignment

5.2

Organise required checks

5.3

Confirm joint integrity as required

5.4

Complete checklists and records as required

Required Skills

Required skills

Required skills include:

using a limited range of hand tools

Identifying tube fitting types

recognising conditions which will lead to a poor joint

implementing enterprise procedures within time constraints and in a manner relevant to the correct use of the equipment

conveying information relevant to the operation clearly and effectively

maintaining appropriate levels of quality assurance

reading and numeracy to interpret/complete workplace documents and technical information

applying mathematics as required

Required knowledge

Required knowledge of non-flared tube fitting jointing principles and typical problems to a level needed to disconnect and reconnect non-flared tube fitting joints using hand tools, includes:

all tube connection types

all sealing methods and types

various lubricants and their respective uses

hazards related to disconnecting pressurised fittings

compatibility of materials

incompatibility of different manufacturer’s components

manufacturer instructions

allowable number of disconnects and reconnects

thread engagement

tool types and applications

organisation’s tube fitting procedures

duty of care obligations

hierarchy of control

communication protocols, e.g. radio, phone, computer, paper and permissions/ authorities

typical issues causing problems and the resolution of those problems

routine problems, faults and their symptoms and the corrective action to be taken

process materials and conditions at the location of the fitting

function and troubleshooting for addressing leaks

relevant environmental requirements

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria required skills and knowledge range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence include:

the disconnecting and reconnecting of a non-flared tube fitting joint in accordance with the organisation’s procedures

recognising own skill limits and when to refer to another person.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment of this competency will occur over a range of situations which will include typical disruptions to normal, smooth operation. This will require access to a plant over a period of time, or a suitable method of gathering evidence of operating ability. Where safety, lack of opportunity or significant cost is an issue, an industry-based simulation may be employed to assist the process.

Guidance information for assessment

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, competency and safety requirements of the site and consistent with workplace systems or procedures.


Range Statement

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Context

This competency includes disconnecting and reconnecting non-flared tube fitting joints using hand tools. It does not include:

the initial installation of tube fittings

high pressure fittings

cone fittings

Work requirements

Work requirements may include but are not limited to:

fitting, tubing and thread specifications

fitting brand

specific sealing method and type

process line and process materials

parts and equipment required

local detectors requiring isolation

required skill level

conflicting work

Work requirements may come from briefings, handovers, and work orders and may include:

compliance documentation

product specifications

nature and scope of tasks

achievement targets

operational conditions

lighting conditions

plant or equipment defects

hazards and potential hazards

coordination requirements or issues

Job site

Inspecting job site may include but is not limited to identifying:

location

authorisations required

access and egress needs

hazards

recent work undertaken on joint

fitting type (matches specification)

Control hazards

Control hazards may include but are not limited to:

selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment

obtaining appropriate authorisations

checking required isolations

controlling other work in area

Implement hazard controls

Implementing hazard controls may include but is not limited to:

controlling access to area

using gas tester

verifying and confirming isolation

safe fitting breaking procedure (line of fire)

Inspect components

Inspecting tube fitting components may include but is not limited to checking:

full tube insertion

orientation of ferrules

correct tube deburring

for signs of damage, defects or deterioration in all components

confirming compliance of components

Components

Components may include but are not limited to:

fitting body

fitting nut

front ferrule

rear ferrule

tube

tube clamps and support saddles

Manage open tube

Manage open tube includes:

all those actions required once the joint is broken to ensure the tube and its contents are not contaminated or damaged

Refer

Refer means to refer the issue to the person with the required skills, knowledge and/or authority to deal with the matter

Procedures

Procedures may be written, verbal, computer-based or in some other form. They may include but are not limited to:

tube fitting procedures

all work instructions

standard operating procedures

temporary instructions

any similar instructions provided for the smooth running of the plant

good operating practice as may be defined by industry codes of practice

Procedures would be expected to comply with any relevant government regulations.

Checklists and records

Checklists and records may include:

paper or electronic based verbal/radio reports

reporting items found which require action

Appropriate action

Appropriate action includes but is not limited to:

determining problems needing action

accessing and applying relevant technical and plant data

applying appropriate problem solving techniques to determine possible fault causes

rectifying problem using appropriate solution within area of responsibility

following through items initiated until final resolution has occurred

reporting problems outside area of responsibility/ability to resolve to designated person

Typical problems

Typical problems may include but are not limited to:

fitting leaks

blockages/build-up/fouling

erosion/wear

ancillary equipment problems

support clamps incorrectly attached

worn threads

misalignments

lack of full tube insertion

ferrule missing or reversed

incorrect installation

Remedial actions

Remedial actions may include but are not limited to:

replacing existing components with new components

carrying out minor maintenance within operator's skill level

identifying and reporting problems outside operator's competence

identifying and controlling hazards related to tube fitting joints

Health, safety and environment (HSE)

All operations to which this unit applies are subject to stringent HSE requirements, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation, and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between Performance Criteria and HSE requirements, the HSE requirements take precedence.


Sectors

Unit sector

Support


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.


Licensing Information

Not applicable.