Application
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to implement a low volume or sprinkler irrigation maintenance program.
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. Interpret a low volume irrigation maintenance program | 1.1 Determine the scope of maintenance 1.2 Determine the frequency of maintenance works 1.3 Establish irrigation maintenance standards 1.4 Plan and prepare maintenance works 1.5 Identify work health and safety hazards, assess risks and implement suitable controls 1.6 Identify environmental considerations of irrigation maintenance activities 1.7 Select and use suitable personal protective equipment |
2. Inspect an irrigation system | 2.1 Create an inspection checklist and inspect the system regularly 2.2 Identify remedial action required and undertake repairs to restore system to full effectiveness 2.3 Undertake servicing of mechanical equipment 2.4 Assess the results of maintenance works and record to ensure repairs or maintenance standards have been achieved |
3. Carry out periodic system maintenance | 3.1 Record damage and blockages with contaminants by damage type, location and the section of the system affected 3.2 Record and report damaged or faulty components and computer control systems and take action to effect repairs 3.3 Implement end of season maintenance procedures 3.4 Implement routine and preventative maintenance procedures |
4. Record and report maintenance activities | 4.1 Restore site and clear materials and equipment from the site on completion of maintenance works 4.2 Complete maintenance and servicing records 4.3 Record parts removed or replaced 4.4 Record or report faults and breakages |
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:
check connections and controllers
check sprinkler/emitter output and function
confirm operational pressures
ensure proper operation of automatic flush valves
interpret and apply maintenance procedures
remove, service and replace valves and filters
test irrigation equipment
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of irrigation system maintenance
characteristics and operation of pipes, joints, valves, emitters
common operational and maintenance problems
components of an irrigation system
operation of pumps and water flow rates
sprinkler/low volume irrigation system components
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)