Assessor Resource

MSS025005
Produce site maps

Assessment tool

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


This unit of competency covers the ability to map the environmental features of a site using sketch maps, computer rendered graphics or geographic information systems (GIS) software. Personnel are required to identify sources of existing environmental data and assess its availability/suitability; collect field data as necessary; assess data quality; and format, present data and incorporate it onto maps. Producing maps to display environmental data requires knowledge of environmental management processes, relevant legislative and regulatory requirements, mapping principles and the use of mapping software and hardware. Personnel will require additional units of competency to manage spatial data sets or undertake complex modelling, data manipulation and analysis using GIS.

This unit of competency is applicable to environmental technicians working in a range of industry sectors, such as environmental monitoring, sampling and field testing (e.g. air, odour, water, soil and noise); groundwater and clean water (e.g. catchments, supply and environmental flows); water treatment, storm and wastewater management; solid and hazardous waste management; management of contaminated sites; site remediation or rehabilitation; geotechnical services; occupational hygiene monitoring (e.g. air, noise and radiation); natural resource management; resource efficiency (e.g. energy, water and waste auditing).

While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, environmental monitoring and management activities are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.

You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)


Evidence Required

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

Source and assess existing site information and data

1.1

Confirm the client’s information needs, timeframe and site map specifications.

1.2

Locate and obtain existing workplace site information and review its relevance and accuracy.

1.3

Locate external sources of relevant data sets and assess their availability, value and limitations.

1.4

Confirm ownership, access arrangements and price of required data sets.

1.5

Obtain selected data sets in accordance with workplace procedures.

1.6

Build a detailed description of the site using existing information and data and identify any gaps.

2

Collect field data about the site

2.1

Establish information needs and identify appropriate field techniques.

2.2

Confirm details of field work, site permits/access restrictions and legislative/regulatory requirements with supervisor, as necessary.

2.3

Confirm data format and quality requirements.

2.4

Assemble required field equipment and supplies and check that all items are fit for purpose.

2.5

Ensure that all required equipment and supplies are transported safely to and from the site.

2.6

Take sufficient and accurate measurements of the site and its features to ensure data reliability.

3

Prepare data and supporting information

3.1

Assess the integrity of all data to ensure its suitability.

3.2

Recognise and resolve any disparities between data sets.

3.3

Identify compatible formats for data.

3.4

Select data to meet client needs.

3.5

Assemble relevant data elements.

3.6

Ensure data format meets client needs.

3.7

Prepare supporting information using media and format that meet client needs.

4

Produce maps to meet information needs

4.1

Transfer data accurately from data sources into GIS or similar systems.

4.2

Prepare sketch and/or computer generated maps to the required quality standard and within the expected timeframe.

4.3

Ensure that all required site features and standard map elements are included in accordance with standard cartographic design principles.

4.4

Compare map against site features to ‘ground-truth’ information, as necessary.

4.5

Seek feedback from users regarding the utility of maps/data and resolve any problems.

4.6

Analyse feedback to identify opportunities to improve the quality of maps.

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

using available data to produce at least two (2) different site maps that meet the client’s specifications and timeframe

locating, interpreting and assessing the quality of existing maps, data sets and environmental information

planning and preparing for field work

collecting and recording reliable spatial and environmental data at the site

scaling information and plotting data

preparing hand drawn or computer rendered maps

using computers and software to manipulate and present data in graphs, tables, diagrams and maps

seeking advice when issues/problems are beyond scope of competence/responsibility

communicating effectively with suppliers of data and map users

working safely.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

environmental terms, concepts and principles relevant to data sets and maps

types and functions of maps, charts, aerial photos and their advantages/disadvantages

map conventions, symbols and representation of topographical features on maps and plans

mapping principles, including layout, legend, scale, media, printing and presentation styles

use of software and hardware, such as printers and plotters

functional components of a compass/global positioning system (GPS) and factors affecting compass/GPS accuracy

techniques for estimating distance and taking bearings

relevant legislation, regulations, licences and permit requirements for site

workplace environmental management framework of policy, procedures and management plans for site

relevant site hazards, health and safety requirements, and workplace safe work procedures.

Judgement 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).

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of at least two (2) site maps produced by the candidate

feedback from supervisors and/or clients about the candidate’s ability to source, assess and use existing data sets to produce site maps that meet their needs

oral and/or written questions to assess the candidate’s knowledge of mapping terminology and principles, interpretation of data sets and maps.

Access is required to all instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures, and specifications associated with this unit including, but not limited to:

site/project history, maps and aerial photos

guidelines, codes, regulations, and workplace procedures governing data collection

relevant field equipment, GPS receivers and related GPS software

relevant computer software (e.g. GIS) and hardware.

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 competency 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 an organisation providing environmental monitoring, management or technology related services about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assingnment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Source and assess existing site information and data

1.1

Confirm the client’s information needs, timeframe and site map specifications.

1.2

Locate and obtain existing workplace site information and review its relevance and accuracy.

1.3

Locate external sources of relevant data sets and assess their availability, value and limitations.

1.4

Confirm ownership, access arrangements and price of required data sets.

1.5

Obtain selected data sets in accordance with workplace procedures.

1.6

Build a detailed description of the site using existing information and data and identify any gaps.

2

Collect field data about the site

2.1

Establish information needs and identify appropriate field techniques.

2.2

Confirm details of field work, site permits/access restrictions and legislative/regulatory requirements with supervisor, as necessary.

2.3

Confirm data format and quality requirements.

2.4

Assemble required field equipment and supplies and check that all items are fit for purpose.

2.5

Ensure that all required equipment and supplies are transported safely to and from the site.

2.6

Take sufficient and accurate measurements of the site and its features to ensure data reliability.

3

Prepare data and supporting information

3.1

Assess the integrity of all data to ensure its suitability.

3.2

Recognise and resolve any disparities between data sets.

3.3

Identify compatible formats for data.

3.4

Select data to meet client needs.

3.5

Assemble relevant data elements.

3.6

Ensure data format meets client needs.

3.7

Prepare supporting information using media and format that meet client needs.

4

Produce maps to meet information needs

4.1

Transfer data accurately from data sources into GIS or similar systems.

4.2

Prepare sketch and/or computer generated maps to the required quality standard and within the expected timeframe.

4.3

Ensure that all required site features and standard map elements are included in accordance with standard cartographic design principles.

4.4

Compare map against site features to ‘ground-truth’ information, as necessary.

4.5

Seek feedback from users regarding the utility of maps/data and resolve any problems.

4.6

Analyse feedback to identify opportunities to improve the quality of maps.

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Legislation, regulations, standards, codes, workplace procedures and/or requirements include the latest version of one or more of:

federal legislation, such as Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act, Australian Heritage Council Act, Native Title Act and National Environmental Protection Measures

state/territory government legislation and regulations and local government by-laws, policies, and plans dealing with land use, acquisition, planning and protection; environmental protection; cultural/heritage sites; vegetation management; nature conservation, wildlife/plant protection; water and water management; soil conservation; pollution and contaminated sites; fisheries, forestry and mining operations

legislation, standards and codes of practice for work health and safety (WHS)

Australian and international standards covering environmental management such as: AS/NZS ISO 14000 Basic Set:2007 Environmental Management Basic Set, and AS ISO 14050 Environmental management – Vocabulary

environmental management plans for sites and projects, site-specific requirements and specific environmental standards

sampling and in-field testing methods, procedures, guidelines provided by workplace or regulator

workplace documents, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs); work schedules; quality manual; recording and reporting procedures; equipment manuals; supplier catalogues; handbooks; safety data sheets (SDS) and safety procedures; waste minimisation, containment, processing and safe disposal procedures.

Maps include one or more of:

topographic

land use and land title maps

vegetation, soils and regional ecosystem maps

air photos

satellite imagery

thematic maps produced using GIS software, such as Mapinfo and Arcview.

Environmental features of sites include one or more of:

hills, mountains, plains and cliffs

waterways, dams, lakes, oceans, estuaries and deltas

vegetation and fauna

soil and rock types

buildings, such as houses, schools, police stations, hospitals, churches, factories and industrial plants

roads, railways, tracks, jetties, piers and other infrastructure

utility services

property boundaries, shire boundaries and electoral boundaries

mining leases, local catchment areas and nature reserves

population and demographics.

Workplace site information includes one or more of:

site or project history

client history

records of consultations with stakeholders

site access protocols and permits

site utilities/services (e.g. water, sewer, electricity and gas)

maps (e.g. road, topographical and survey marks)

existing data sets (e.g. vegetation, topography, soils and regional ecosystem maps)

hazards and safety risks.

External sources of data include one or more of:

government departments and agencies (e.g. environment, climate change, agriculture and mining)

utility authorities/companies (e.g. water, gas and electricity)

land title office and Valuer General

local government records

Geoscience Australia

Australian Social Science Data Archive

companies providing environmental services.

Data sets include one or more of:

textual, graphical, spatial and temporal in hard/soft copy

satellite imagery and remote sensing data

geophysical, geochemical, geological, hydrological and meteorological data

ecological data, such as distribution of vegetation, fauna and pests

social science data, such as demographic and census information

land use data, zoning and property classifications

historical records and photographs.

Field techniques include one or more of:

on site surveying

hand mapping

comparing site features with existing site information

collection of samples and field measurements.

Field equipment and supplies include one or more of:

global positioning system (GPS)

tapes and pegs

compass

clinometer

portable computer, palm pilot or data logger

communication equipment.

Standard map elements include one or more of:

latitude and longitude

grid reference systems (old and new and their relation to one another)

north point, elevation, scale and legend.

Integrity of data includes one or more of:

accuracy, currency and completeness

scale and resolution

confidence limits for data

quality (e.g. age/condition of hard copy documents).

Disparities between data sets include one or more of:

datum and projection

currency.

Supporting information includes one or more of:

graphs, tables, equations and parameters

explanatory notes.

WHS and environmental management requirements include:

· compliance with relevant federal/state/territory WHS legislation at all times

· assuming that samples are potentially hazardous and applying standard precautions

accessing and applying current industry understanding of infection control issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and state/territory Departments of Health, where relevant.

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

using available data to produce at least two (2) different site maps that meet the client’s specifications and timeframe

locating, interpreting and assessing the quality of existing maps, data sets and environmental information

planning and preparing for field work

collecting and recording reliable spatial and environmental data at the site

scaling information and plotting data

preparing hand drawn or computer rendered maps

using computers and software to manipulate and present data in graphs, tables, diagrams and maps

seeking advice when issues/problems are beyond scope of competence/responsibility

communicating effectively with suppliers of data and map users

working safely.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

environmental terms, concepts and principles relevant to data sets and maps

types and functions of maps, charts, aerial photos and their advantages/disadvantages

map conventions, symbols and representation of topographical features on maps and plans

mapping principles, including layout, legend, scale, media, printing and presentation styles

use of software and hardware, such as printers and plotters

functional components of a compass/global positioning system (GPS) and factors affecting compass/GPS accuracy

techniques for estimating distance and taking bearings

relevant legislation, regulations, licences and permit requirements for site

workplace environmental management framework of policy, procedures and management plans for site

relevant site hazards, health and safety requirements, and workplace safe work procedures.

Judgement 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).

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of at least two (2) site maps produced by the candidate

feedback from supervisors and/or clients about the candidate’s ability to source, assess and use existing data sets to produce site maps that meet their needs

oral and/or written questions to assess the candidate’s knowledge of mapping terminology and principles, interpretation of data sets and maps.

Access is required to all instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures, and specifications associated with this unit including, but not limited to:

site/project history, maps and aerial photos

guidelines, codes, regulations, and workplace procedures governing data collection

relevant field equipment, GPS receivers and related GPS software

relevant computer software (e.g. GIS) and hardware.

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 competency 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 an organisation providing environmental monitoring, management or technology related services about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.
Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Confirm the client’s information needs, timeframe and site map specifications. 
Locate and obtain existing workplace site information and review its relevance and accuracy. 
Locate external sources of relevant data sets and assess their availability, value and limitations. 
Confirm ownership, access arrangements and price of required data sets. 
Obtain selected data sets in accordance with workplace procedures. 
Build a detailed description of the site using existing information and data and identify any gaps. 
Establish information needs and identify appropriate field techniques. 
Confirm details of field work, site permits/access restrictions and legislative/regulatory requirements with supervisor, as necessary. 
Confirm data format and quality requirements. 
Assemble required field equipment and supplies and check that all items are fit for purpose. 
Ensure that all required equipment and supplies are transported safely to and from the site. 
Take sufficient and accurate measurements of the site and its features to ensure data reliability. 
Assess the integrity of all data to ensure its suitability. 
Recognise and resolve any disparities between data sets. 
Identify compatible formats for data. 
Select data to meet client needs. 
Assemble relevant data elements. 
Ensure data format meets client needs. 
Prepare supporting information using media and format that meet client needs. 
Transfer data accurately from data sources into GIS or similar systems. 
Prepare sketch and/or computer generated maps to the required quality standard and within the expected timeframe. 
Ensure that all required site features and standard map elements are included in accordance with standard cartographic design principles. 
Compare map against site features to ‘ground-truth’ information, as necessary. 
Seek feedback from users regarding the utility of maps/data and resolve any problems. 
Analyse feedback to identify opportunities to improve the quality of maps. 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MSS025005 - Produce site maps
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

MSS025005 - Produce site maps

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: