Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to assist installing, operating and maintaining pressurised irrigation systems. These systems use sprinklers and generally use glued PVC pipe.
This unit 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 work 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 Lay irrigation components out 2.3 Dig or tidy trenches where required 2.4 Add or insert system components 2.5 Position and secure lines 2.6 Assist with fitting pumps and valves |
3. Complete installation activities | 3.1 Check the irrigation system for leaks or blockages 3.2 Identify and report problems and anomalies 3.3 Clean and store equipment, tools and materials 3.4 Collect waste and dispose of or recycle 3.5 Record workplace information in the appropriate format |
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 sprinklers 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 irrigation operating tasks
complete installation work
fix identified faults
follow directions to operate pumps, filters and valves
look for leaks and faulty sprinklers
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 practices of pressurised irrigation systems
characteristics and operation of replaceable components of sprinkler irrigation systems
environmental impacts of irrigation from ground or underground source
installation techniques and procedures
irrigation controllers
irrigation pipes, types and sizes
irrigation times to deliver sufficient volume without over watering
operation of pressurised irrigation system
set out procedures
signs of stress in plants as well as the signs of over and under watering
sprinkler irrigation components and their function
sprinkler spacing, coverage and pressure
system malfunctions and their likely causes
types of sprinklers
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)