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.
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 | Confirm requirements for field monitoring activities | 1.1 | Clarify the purpose, objectives and the defined site for the field monitoring activities with supervising staff |
| 1.2 | Review all emergency plans, risk assessments, and safety and environmental requirements associated with the field activities |
| 1.3 | Review and discuss the detailed work program with supervising staff |
| 1.4 | Clarify the need for permits and any access restrictions or local concerns at field site |
| 1.5 | Clarify details of all samples to be collected and field parameters to be measured |
| 1.6 | Confirm final data formats will suit stakeholders who receive or use the data |
| 1.7 | Review existing in-house protocols and/or associated in-house requirements that relate to field sampling, monitoring and data quality procedures |
|
2 | Prepare for field monitoring activities | 2.1 | Develop checklists, based on work program, to facilitate correct preparation of field activities |
| 2.2 | Identify and implement all actions required under workplace emergency plan, risk assessment, and environment, safety and data quality procedures |
| 2.3 | Complete all administrative requirements and obtain appropriate approvals/permits |
| 2.4 | Prepare and check all instruments, equipment, materials and supplies required to implement field program |
| 2.5 | Confirm correct and safe use of equipment and details of field activities with supervisor |
| 2.6 | Arrange and check correct operation, packaging and transportation of all supplies and equipment |
| 2.7 | Arrange all additional pre- and post-monitoring activities |
|
3 | Perform field activities | 3.1 | Establish and maintain field camp in accordance with workplace procedures, as necessary |
| 3.2 | Perform field sampling, monitoring, data collection and recording in accordance with the agreed work program |
| 3.3 | Label all samples and complete data sheets and field log book in accordance with workplace procedures |
| 3.4 | Store samples/specimens in accordance with any special requirements for continued wellbeing, viability or integrity |
| 3.5 | Perform all tests and operate all equipment according to workplace instructions |
| 3.6 | Store and maintain equipment and, where appropriate, calibrate instruments during field activities |
| 3.7 | Perform all activities safely with minimal impact on the environment |
|
4 | Close down field monitoring activities | 4.1 | Arrange and check final packaging and transportation of all samples, equipment and supplies back to home base |
| 4.2 | Ensure that monitoring/camp site is left in accordance with workplace and environmental requirements |
| 4.3 | Ensure all samples and data are stored safely |
| 4.4 | Ensure dispatch of collected samples for subsequent analysis |
| 4.5 | Test and, if required, decontaminate equipment before storage |
| 4.6 | Report results, noting any anomalies with users, data analysers and/or supervisor |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
organising and undertaking at least one (1) field monitoring program for determining physical and chemical parameters and/or observing and documenting biological and ecological systems
reviewing a written work program to confirm its purpose, major field activities, resource requirements and the relevant aspects of emergency, safety and environmental field plans
developing accurate and complete checklists covering instruments, equipment and associated supplies necessary for a defined field activity
managing the logistics of field activities, such as purchasing; bookings; assembly; checking and transport of equipment and consumables; rosters; location, establishment and maintenance of site; communication systems; waste removal and site remediation
preparing, checking, calibrating and safely using field instruments and equipment under laboratory and field conditions
identifying and rectifying basic equipment/instrument faults
collecting, preserving, labelling, storing and transporting samples and specimens to enable subsequent identification and ensure their wellbeing, viability and integrity
performing field tests accurately and collecting/recording reliable field data
gaining site access and permits and clearances for sample collecting
communicating and negotiating effectively with staff and other relevant parties
responding effectively to changed or unforseen circumstances
following workplace safety procedures and hazard control measures for the protection of self and others.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
understanding of the purpose and objectives of field activities, such as information and analysis required, end users of information, and significance of outcomes for broader programs
application of risk assessment to work programs and field activities
technical capabilities and limitations of equipment and instruments used in field activities
specific legislation and codes of practice related to sample collection
workplace procedures for the conduct of monitoring activities and recording of field data
relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements, including field safety/survival principles
common issues and problems with organising and conducting field activities, such as:
loss or failure of equipment
failure to bring critical equipment
communication failure/difficulties
unexpected restriction access to site
unforseen environmental impacts
contact with hazardous wastes.
Judgment of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.
This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).
This unit of competency may be assessed with:
MSL944001 Maintain laboratory/field workplace safety
MSL954001 Obtain representative samples in accordance with sampling plan
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of workplace documentation completed by the candidate, such as a checklist of resources required to carry out a defined work program and pre-and post-monitoring requirements
review of field data and results obtained by the candidate
feedback from supervisors and peers
review of candidate’s responses to simulation exercises, such as accident and emergency situations, communication failure/difficulties and failure to bring critical equipment
observation of candidate preparing for and/or conducting fieldwork
oral and/or written questioning to assess required knowledge.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
equipment required for field activities, such as vehicles, navigation and communication equipment; survey equipment, sampling equipment, containers, field test kits and instruments, safety equipment and consumables
work program, workplace procedures, codes of practice and field protocols and manuals.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR
relevant workplace experience.
Currency can be demonstrated through:
performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR
having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.