List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Ensure the moving sprinkler irrigation system is prepared for operation | 1.1 Assess staff training needs for carrying out pre-start checks and routine servicing and arrange training for those that require it 1.2 Program or adjust the irrigation controller to meet the required schedule 1.3 Develop procedures for adjusting valves and checking filters and emitters |
2. Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures | 2.1 Develop start-up procedures for a low volume irrigation system 2.2 Develop shut down sequence and isolation procedures 2.3 Install safety or security lock off devices and signage 2.4 Provide instructions for flushing the system as required |
3. Carry out trouble shooting for faults and blockages | 3.1 Arrange access to faulty components and blockages 3.2 Remove faulty components from the system and repair or dispose of in an environmentally responsible way 3.3 Select appropriate replaceable components and install |
4. Measure performance of a moving sprinkler irrigation system | 4.1 Identify and record variations in pressures 4.2 Measure and record water flow rates 4.3 Identify and record variations in water flow and distribution 4.4 Measure and record pump performance parameters as necessary 4.5 Measure and record variations in pump performance parameters where relevant 4.6 Inspect distribution and delivery systems and identify and fix malfunctions in system and record actions 4.7 Identify and record factors external to the system that may cause interference |
5. Review system performance status | 5.1 Record system pressures and variations 5.2 Record system flow rates and variations 5.3 Calculate and record distribution uniformity and mean application rates 5.4 Determine and record watering depth 5.5 Calculate energy use and water efficiency and compare to industry benchmarks |
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
develop and supervise procedures for starting up, carrying out operational checks and shutting down
measure, interpret and adjust flow rates and pressures
measure output and efficiency of an irrigation system
monitor system effectiveness:
application rates
depth of irrigation
infiltration and runoff
irrigation times
pressure variations and blockages
salinity levels and water quality
soil moisture levels
sprinkler coverage and output
use records to review an irrigation system
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
best practices for reducing environmental impacts of irrigation
component specifications
critical measures for moisture availability:
field capacity
readily available water
wilting point
energy efficiency indicators/ benchmarks for moving sprinkler irrigation:
Application Efficiency
Average Application Rate
Instantaneous Application Rate
environmental hazards of runoff and compaction
environmental impacts of irrigation using water from any ground or underground source
general irrigation methods for moving sprinkler systems
irrigation schedules
main components of moving sprinkler irrigation systems
monitoring soil compaction and drainage
moving sprinkler irrigation technologies
physical soil characteristics such as infiltration rate, water holding capacity and wetted volume in the root zone
pump types used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their output and efficiency ratings
pump types used in moving sprinkler irrigation systems and their operation
servicing and maintenance of travelling mechanism
soil moisture testing techniques
soil, plant and water relationships
water requirements of plants/crops consistent with sound environmental management
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.