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.

Overview of assessment

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to undertake the required steps to plan and prepare for a safe boating trip, including undertaking simple maintenance.

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

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality and communication, associated with a marine environment, or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment

Required skills

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

interpreting weather forecasts

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

weather information

vessel maintenance and service schedule requirements

capabilities of boat

safety equipment required on-board boat

safety procedures

marine legislation, regulations and rules

area of activity

legislative requirements regarding the use of safety equipment

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.

Boat is maintained/serviced

Oil levels and mix, belts, spark plugs, regular running and flushing of cooling system where appropriate, manual starting, raw water intake filters, fuel lines, fillers and tanks, hoses, maintenance history and compliance with maker recommendations, electrical wiring, battery and master switch/Dead Man's switch, steerage, propeller and shaft condition

Safety equipment

Life jackets, bailers, dinghy/life raft, paddles/oars, bilge pumps, bucket and line, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, distress signalling equipment, marine radio, waterproof torch, charts, anchor/sea anchor, lifebuoy, compass, sound signal, drinking water, towing harness, isolating switches, tow rope, local emergency procedures book, sounding equipment, EPIRB, GPS, divers flag, suitable clothing, alternative means of propulsion

Mooring and berthing apparatus is maintained/serviced

Appropriateness of mooring/berthing, regularity of checks, services by recognised contractor, serviceable mooring and berthing lines, fenders, anchors and ground tackle

Weather conditions

Current forecast, wind, latest weather and conditions information, source of weather information, tides (flood and ebb tides), rips and bars, wave height, visibility, day/night

Area and type of operation

Hazards, local knowledge, rules and protocols, events, emergency response, access and exit points, safe havens, launching ramps, destination port

Adequate provisions

Suitability of the vessel for the activity, adequate fuel for the distance, water, food, ice, sun protection, wet weather gear, first aid kit, personal medications, batteries, gas, emergency (reserve) fuel and method of fuel transfer

Trip details

Trip departure and return time, number of people in the boat, area and nature of operation, way points, radio used and frequency, call signs, details of vessel including description and registration number, shore contact details, fuel capacity and usage, trailer registration number

Appropriate person

Family member or relative, neighbour(s), police - water or local, marine rescue services, club or organisation, harbour master, costal radio station, note in car (if appropriate)

Pre-start check

Fuel is connected, battery is charged and connected, kill switch, fumes, petrol, fuel and water leaks, open hatches/windows/doors, ventilation, sea-cock opening, secure loose gear, turn on marine radio, check bilge water levels, navigation lights, raise radio aerials