Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to assist with installing, operating and maintaining low volume irrigation systems. These systems use emitters such as drippers and generally use poly pipe.
It applies to individuals who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
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. Prepare for work | 1.1 Confirm work instructions with supervisor 1.2 Select appropriate materials, tools, equipment and machinery 1.3 Select personal protective equipment and clothing and ensure correct fit 1.4 Identify manual handling and other workplace health and safety hazards 1.5 Identify the site for installation of the irrigation system |
2. Install irrigation components | 2.1 Prepare the site for installation works 2.2 Assemble and connect system components and test joints 2.3 Connect system to water supply 2.4 Flush and commission system 2.5 Identify and report operating and take corrective actions as directed 2.6 Maintain a clean and safe work area |
3. Complete installation work | 3.1 Remove waste material from the site and dispose of 3.2 Clean, maintain and store tools, equipment and machinery 3.3 Flush and commission system |
4. Carry out start up and shutdown procedures as directed | 4.1 Follow start-up sequence 4.2 Shut down system components in sequence 4.3 Drain system 4.4 Record irrigation activity |
5. Assist with system maintenance | 5.1 Check emitters for serviceability and output 5.2 Maintain delivery components 5.3 Check water supply and pumping system periodically, where required 5.4 Keep maintenance records up to date |
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:
assemble and join irrigation system components
carry out basic maintenance tasks
carry out low volume irrigation operating tasks
complete installation work
fix identified faults
follow directions to operate pumps, filters and valves
install irrigation components
look for leaks and faulty emitters
prepare materials, tools and equipment
recognise and report faults
undertake site preparation tasks as directed
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practice of low volume irrigation operation
characteristics and operation of joints, valves and emitter components
components in low volume irrigation systems
emitter spacing, coverage and pressure
indicators of over and under watering
installation techniques and procedures
irrigation controllers
irrigation pipes, types and sizes
irrigation times to deliver sufficient volume without over watering
methods and techniques of low volume irrigation installation
operation of low volume irrigation system
set out procedures
system malfunctions and their likely causes
use of recycled water and colour coding of pipes
water requirements of relevant plants
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
Irrigation (IRG)