Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to safely store, transport and operate instruments that emit ionising radiation following established safe work practices and in accordance with laboratory procedures and licensing requirements. Examples include, use of process control instrumentation, such as fluid level gauges using radioactive sources, on-site non-destructive testing of weldments using X-ray and gamma ray sources and density testing of asphaltic concrete.
This unit of competency applies to laboratory or field assistants working in construction materials testing or similar industry sectors. They work under supervision or direction of paraprofessionals.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. | ||
1 | Store instruments safely and securely | 1.1 | Identify state or territory requirements for storage facilities and associated document processes |
1.2 | Store instruments in accordance with state or territory requirements and documented procedures | ||
1.3 | Secure instruments to prevent unauthorised access | ||
1.4 | Record instruments' movements and usage in accordance with documented procedures | ||
2 | Transport instruments safely and securely | 2.1 | Select vehicle suitable for the purpose |
2.2 | Attach regulation signage in accordance with state or territory requirements to indicate that radioactive sources are being carried | ||
2.3 | Ensure that instruments are properly located and fixed securely in place | ||
2.4 | Ensure security of instruments when the vehicle is unattended | ||
3 | Use instruments safely and maintain security | 3.1 | Follow safe working practices to minimise own exposure to radiation |
3.2 | Use radiation dosimeter to monitor own exposure to radiation | ||
3.3 | Follow safe work practices to minimise exposure of others to radiation | ||
3.4 | Follow safe work practices to protect the instrument from damage | ||
3.5 | Maintain instrument security | ||
4 | Monitor radiation levels | 4.1 | Check operation and calibration status of radiation survey meter |
4.2 | Perform radiation survey following documented procedure | ||
4.3 | Report atypical conditions and/or problems to appropriate personnel | ||
5 | Maintain records | 5.1 | Record observations, data and results in accordance with workplace procedures |
5.2 | Maintain confidentiality of workplace information in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
6 | Perform emergency procedures | 6.1 | Identify potential emergency situations |
6.2 | Respond to emergencies in accordance with documented procedures | ||
6.3 | Report emergency situations to appropriate personnel | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Competency Field
Work health and safety