Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to design a hydroponic system. It applies to those who design systems for hydroponic production of horticultural crops.
It applies to individuals who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Carry out preliminary research | 1.1 Research type of crop to be grown based on sound marketing principles 1.2 Research the growing requirements of the crop based on sound horticultural practices 1.3 Establish the associated risks of growing a particular crop based on sound horticultural practices 1.4 Calculate estimated yield and crop turnover time from historical data and research statistics 1.5 Determine quantity of the plants to be grown based on a cost benefit analysis |
2. Assess the suitability of a site | 2.1 Assess the physical characteristics of the site 2.2 Ascertain and assess the proximity of the site to markets 2.3 Identify legal requirements in relation to the site and the development of a hydroponic farm 2.4 Identify and consider the environmental implications of developing a hydroponic farm on the site |
3. Select the required system | 3.1 Research main types of hydroponic systems 3.2 Carry out analysis on each type of system for the chosen crops 3.3 Carry out a cost/benefit analysis on each system for each type of crop 3.4 Determine the type of hydroponic system to be installed |
4. Design the hydroponic system | 4.1 Select and document the water collection and storage system on the plan 4.2 Select the irrigation system and its components according to the required volume of water and flow rate 4.3 Select and document the fertigation system 4.4 Determine the dimensions of the controlled environment structure following full consideration of the relevant factors 4.5 Determine the environmental control system and document specifications on the plan |
5. Prepare and document the design | 5.1 Develop a design plan 5.2 Determine specifications and detailed costings with the help of experts, if required 5.3 Develop and document detailed production procedures and schedules 5.4 Present documentation to the client for final approval |
Evidence of Performance
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:
research the growing requirements, risks and returns of the proposed crop
select, design or customise a system for the site and purpose
survey the site for suitability and environmental impacts, and gain approvals
develop a design plan
present a design plan to clients
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices for developing a hydroponic system plan
advantages and disadvantages of the different equipment used in hydroponic systems
environmental implications of the disposal of chemicals or chemical containers and the drainage of high nutrient effluent
legislation and regulations relating to the establishment of a hydroponic system
plant growing media choices, their properties and enterprise specifications
technical requirements and operating parameters of recirculated and non-recirculated systems
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Hydroponics (HYD)