Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate low volume and sprinkler irrigation systems.
It applies to individuals who take responsibility for own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. 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 pre-start checks | 1.1 Determine work requirements and identify hazards, assess risks and implement control measures 1.2 Select required tools and equipment and check for safe operation 1.3 Select and use suitable personal protective equipment 1.4 Check water, power, fuel and lubricants to confirm all are available and the control system is operational 1.5 Prime pumps, if necessary, and open or close valves and controls as directed 1.6 Calibrate pressure and flow testing equipment 1.7 Carry out other pre-start system checks |
2. Inspect and operate the system | 2.1 Implement start up sequence 2.2 Check emitter spacing against the irrigation plan 2.3 Adjust water pressure as required 2.4 Keep filters clear and replace as required 2.5 Correct or repair all malfunctions, leaks and blockages and report |
3. Monitor irrigation system performance | 3.1 Check emitters for output 3.2 Calculate application rate of water 3.3 Check the water distribution pattern in the irrigated area 3.4 Monitor moisture levels in the root zone 3.5 Minimise environmental impacts of the operation |
4. Shut down irrigation system | 4.1 Apply water for sufficient time to achieve required soil moisture levels and allowing for weather conditions 4.2 Shut down system components and drain 4.3 Record and report irrigation activities |
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:
assess soil moisture levels
carry out measurements for output and distribution
measure and interpret flow rates and pressures
monitor system effectiveness including:
application rates
depth of irrigation
emitter output
irrigation times
pressure variations and blockages
salinity levels and water quality
perform shut down procedures
read and follow operations manual and procedures
record data
start up the system and carrying out operational checks
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of pressurised irrigation system operation
critical measures for moisture availability including:
evapotranspiration
field capacity
infiltration rates
readily available water
water holding capacity
wilting point
electrical hazards including:
contact with pumps, motors, other live components
short circuits
standing laterals to remove blockages
water spray onto power lines
energy efficiency indicators and benchmarks for low volume irrigation
environmental impacts of irrigation using water from any ground or underground source
general irrigation methods for low volume systems
main components of low volume and sprinkler irrigation systems
principles of irrigation and the water cycle
pump types used in irrigation systems and their operation
shutdown sequence and flushing procedures
soil characteristics
soil, plant and water relationships
water requirements of plants and crops consistent with sound environmental management
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)