Composting is used here as a general expression for the processing of organic materials; with this unit being relevant for aerobic and anaerobic composting and vermiculture technologies.

This unit of competency applies to an employee of an enterprise engaged in commercial-scale composting operations. Work is likely to be performed as a part of a team, and may include team leader responsibilities. In smaller enterprises, the majority of tasks associated with dispatch and loading may be undertaken by the one person rather than by contract drivers.

Where work requires the use of load-shifting equipment, the appropriate training/certification must be provided according to state and territory safety and licensing requirements.

Not applicable.

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

Required skills include:

demonstrating safe and efficient work practices

measuring, including weights, volumes and bucket volumes

operating load-shifting equipment

organising a site

using a computer to obtain and record dispatch information

using PPE

using signalling and communication techniques and equipment.

Required knowledge includes:

bulk density and moisture effects on weight and volume

communication techniques and equipment

customer service

measurements, including weights, volumes and bucket volumes

OHS requirements

provisions of the Trade Practices Act in regard to weights and measurements of bulk product

relevant regulations governing site operation

types and performance characteristics of vehicles and loading equipment used in a composting enterprise.

Overview of assessment

This unit of competency could be assessed on its own or in combination with other units of competency relevant to the job function such as after:

RTC2210A Maintain properties and structures

RTC2701A Follow OHS procedures

RTC2702A Observe environmental work practices

RTE2507A Recognise raw materials, production processes and products on a composting site

RTE2709A Recognise and respond to fire emergencies on a composting site.

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

The critical requirements for this unit of competency as a whole are listed below.

Assessment must confirm one's ability to:

organise a loading site

correctly interpret dispatch orders

organise and coordinate loading

measure product quantity for dispatch

load correct product for dispatch

communicate instructions verbally and non-verbally (via signals)

select and use emergency and PPE equipment

identify hazards associated with loading

implement risk minimisation actions.

Context and specific resources for assessment

Assessment for this unit of competency is to be largely practical in nature and must be assessed in a commercial-scale composting facility or in a situation that reproduces and/or simulates operational conditions.

For valid assessment, one should have opportunities to participate in exercises, case studies and other real and simulated practical and knowledge assessments that demonstrate the skills and knowledge specified in this unit.

The candidate should also have access to the following resources:

products for loading

vehicles to be loaded

quantity measurement machinery or equipment such as weighbridge, front-end loader or loader with bucket scales

PPE

computer and merchandising software

forms used for product dispatch.

Guidance information for assessment

To ensure consistency in one's performance, competency should be demonstrated on more than one occasion over a period of time in order to cover a variety of circumstances, cases and responsibilities and, where possible, over a number of assessment activities.

The skills and knowledge required to demonstrate competency must allow for application in a broad industry context, and should be transferable to a range of work environments, including the ability to deal with unplanned events. For example, this could include work within composting operations of varying scale; processing a range of different raw materials; producing a range of different composts and value-added products to meet the demands of different markets; located in an urban or rural context with varying environmental constraints; and using various equipment, practices, technologies and management systems.

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. Add any 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.

Not applicable.

The required outcomes described in this unit of competency contain applicable facets of Employability Skills.

Prerequisite unit

The following unit is a prerequisite requirement for this unit:

TDTI297C Apply customer service skills.

Refer to Application of the Unit