Application
This unit describes the skills required to operate and control wastewater lagoon processes. This unit also describes the outcomes required to measure and report on system performance and process quality control, to monitor and operate wastewater lagoon processes and report on system performance.
This unit applies to those working as operational staff with a specific responsibility for wastewater lagoons in treatment plants.
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, 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. Plan and prepare for work | 1.1 Determine work requirements from job specifications and plans. 1.2 Select and check equipment required to meet safety requirements of task and site. 1.3 Select, fit and use personal protective equipment. |
2. Operate and control process | 2.1 Carry out routine inspection on assets. 2.2 Collect process samples. 2.3 Carry out routine tests when required. 2.4 Prepare samples for laboratory testing. 2.5 Identify and report process faults and operational condition of assets. 2.6 Carry out basic process adjustments to enhance process performance. 2.7 Monitor processes to maintain parameters of operation. |
3. Complete documentation | 3.1 Collect, record and complete process data. 3.2 Identify data that falls outside normal parameters and report 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 of the types of lagoons listed in the Range of Conditions. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on least one occasion.
identifying and reporting faults
making basic process adjustments
collecting data and completing required documentation
determining chemical dosing requirements
applying basic process formulae
taking samples and performing basic tests including pH, DO, electrical conductivity
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 of lagoon processes
types of chemicals applicable to lagoons
features and components of wastewater lagoon systems
chemicals used for pH control, odour control, nutrients
flow measurement
risk factors and potential hazards relating to wastewater lagoon systems
chemical and biological principles that form the basis of lagoon wastewater treatment
recirculation principles
operational problems
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 lagoons include: | aerated lagoons maturation lagoons facultative lagoons anaerobic lagoons |
Competency Field
Treatment