PUADEFCA416C
Employ hand operated pyrotechnics

This unit covers the competency required to effectively employ pyrotechnics. Pyrotechnics are usually used for illumination, signalling and obscuration.

Application

This unit of competency was developed for members of the Australian Defence Force but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.

The pyrotechnic operator will normally act independently. Pyrotechnics are normally carried by the individual who is often employed as part of a team.


Prerequisites

Not applicable.


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Handle pyrotechnics

1.1 Pyrotechnics are identified and selected according to operational requirements

1.2 Pyrotechnics are safely handled and carried in accordance with standard procedures

1.3 Operating positions are adopted as required by circumstances and type of pyrotechnic

1.4 Occupational health and safety (OH&S) requirements and recognised safety precautions are applied throughout the operation

1.5 Environmental factors are monitored to ensure safety

2. Operate pyrotechnics

2.1 Pyrotechnics are activated in accordance with standard procedures

2.2 Outcome required from using pyrotechnics is achieved

2.3 Environmental impact arising from use of pyrotechnics is minimised and waste products are recovered

Required Skills

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills

apply recognised safety precautions

Required Knowledge

characteristics, technical capabilities, effects, employment and limitations of the pyrotechnics

OH&S requirements

recognised safety precautions

Evidence Required

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

apply OH&S requirements and recognised safety precautions at all times.

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated in a range of actual deployments of hand operated pyrotechnics.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in an actual or simulated workplace environment by observing the use of hand operated pyrotechnics during the day and at night.

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to:

pyrotechnics.

Method of assessment

In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.

Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.

Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:

direct observation

interviewing the candidate

journals and workplace documentation

third party reports from supervisors

written or oral questions.


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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Pyrotechnics may include

Battle effect simulators

Day/night flares

Parachute flares

Signal flares

Smoke dispensers

Smoke grenades

Trip flares

Identifying pyrotechnics may include

Colour

Hazard band

Markings

Shape

Standard procedures may include

Australian Standards

Defence Instructions

Doctrine pamphlets

Job guides, other publications

Manufacturers' handbooks, industry specifications and technical instructions

OH&S regulations

Organisational policies and procedures

Procedure manuals

Relevant local government by laws

Relevant state/territory or federal legislation

Routine Orders

Standing Operating Procedures

Standing Orders

Written and verbal orders

Operating positions may include

Lying

Standing

Kneeling

Activating pyrotechnics may include

Firing/launching

Pulling

Throwing


Sectors

Not applicable.


Employability Skills

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit/s

Nil


Licensing Information

Not applicable.