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 set up and operate wood working machines. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

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, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with performing general woodworking machine operations 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:

determining job requirements from job instructions, specifications, standard operating procedures and other applicable reference documents

checking and clarifying task-related information

selecting and setting machines

setting guards and stops

handling, machining and storing timber and wood

measuring materials and components to specified sizes/tolerances

checking for conformance to specifications

Required knowledge

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

application and use of general wood working machines

interpreting instructions, drawings or sketches

numerical operations and calculations within the scope of this unit

machine settings including installation of blades and cutters, clamping for the job, including adjustments for sizing and speed

the range of tools/cutters for different purposes

the consequences of incorrect set or cutting angles

the consequences of tool holders, tools and cutters etc., being incorrectly secured

the consequences of not using guards etc.

timber product knowledge including features, characteristics and applications

methods of optimising quality of appearance, retention of shape, strength, and the minimisation of waste

use and application of personal protective equipment

safe work practices and procedures

hazards and control measures associated with general woodworking machine operations

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.

Job requirements

Sizing, appearance in terms of figure, grain or surface finish, allowance of imperfections such as twist, bow, bend, sloping grain, knots, shakes, gum veins etc.

Woodworking machines

Band saws, buzzers, thicknesses, disk sander, bobbin sander, pattern mill, wood lathe, pedestal router and drill

Set up

Installation of the blades and cutters, settings for the job, including adjustments for sizing and speed

Cutting tools

Blades, router bits

Guards/stops

Fixed and variable guards and stops