Application
This unit describes the skills required to sample, identify and confirm outbreaks of blue-green algae blooms.
This unit applies to those working as operational staff with a specific responsibility for ensuring that water and/or wastewater quality conforms to organisational standards and complies with statutory requirements.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to.
Those undertaking this unit would work under supervision, while performing routine tasks within a familiar context.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Confirm and conduct algae sampling | 1.1 Confirm type of samples required, procedures for sampling and sampling locations from the work instruction. 1.2 Select and prepare sampling equipment according to specified samples required. 1.3 Carry out algae sampling. 1.4 Maintain integrity of samples during sampling and label sample containers. |
2. Prepare samples for testing | 2.1 Receive, handle and prepare samples for testing. 2.2 Prepare and check testing equipment for blue-green algae identification and enumeration. |
3. Identify and enumerate blue-green algae | 3.1 Conduct microscopic examination of algae sample. 3.2 Determine number of cells using Sedgwick-Rafter Counting Chamber and calculate cell concentration. |
4. Complete documentation | 4.1 Complete data report of the blue-green algae test results. 4.2 Report observations outside defined parameters for further action. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. The candidate must be assessed in at least one type of sampling technique listed in the Range of Conditions. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
using safety and personal protective equipment
interpreting instructions
interpreting policies, procedures and standards
performing algae sampling
maintaining integrity of samples
recording information and reporting on basic data
identifying algae types
conducting blue-green algae identification and enumeration tests
performing calculations
reporting test results
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
types and purposes of algae samples
sampling and testing of water quality parameters related to algae growth
procedures and techniques for all algae sampling
hazards associated with collection and handling of blue-green algae samples
environmental factors which favour the growth of algae
characteristics of algae
problems caused by algal blooms
impact of blue-green algae on water and/or wastewater treatment processes
Assessment Conditions
Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment, with access to equipment and infrastructure appropriate to the outcome. Competency should be demonstrated over time to ensure the candidate is assessed across a variety of situations.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Range Statement
Types of sample techniques include: | grab integrated concentrated |
Competency Field
Source