- PMAOPS101C - Read dials and indicators
PMAOPS101C
Read dials and indicators
Application
In a typical scenario an operator patrols the plant taking a range of readings to complete logs and check on the operation of the plant. The operator needs to interpret the display on the instrument and record the appropriate reading. As part of this process, they check that the instrument is within calibration (where appropriate) and make a judgement as to whether the reading is 'reasonable' or whether some action needs to be taken. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Contribute to controlling hazards in work area. | 1.1. Identify hazards in work area 1.2. Take appropriate action to control risks according to procedures. |
2. Identify appropriate measuring device readings. | 2.1. Explain the need for calibration and where appropriate, confirm the calibration of the measuring device 2.2. Select appropriate units on the measuring device 2.3. Select appropriate scale(s) on the measuring device. |
3. Perform measurements. | 3.1. Identify the range of results that could be obtained 3.2. Identify and take account of relevant external factors 3.3. Perform measurements using appropriate techniques 3.4. Identify measurements outside the range of expected results 3.5. Take action on measurements outside expected range according to procedures. |
4. Record results | 4.1. Record readings accurately in the appropriate format 4.2. Record the results to the appropriate level of detail. |
Required Skills
This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Required skills |
efficient and effective operation of plant/equipment hazard analysis completing plant records communication problem solving. |
Required knowledge |
basic units of measurement measuring devices, including gauges, dip-sticks, thermometers and the like graphs and scales workplace Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to this competency typical problems with measuring equipment applicable to this competency procedures for reporting or dealing with typical equipment problems and threats to safety. |
Evidence Required
The Evidence Guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package. | ||
Overview of assessment | Assessment of this unit should include demonstrated competence on actual plant and equipment in a work environment. The unit will be assessed in as holistic a manner as is practical and may be integrated with the assessment of other relevant units of competency. Assessment will occur over a range of situations which will include disruptions to normal, smooth operation. Simulation may be required to allow for assessment of parts of this unit. Simulation should be based on the actual plant and will include walk-throughs of the relevant competency components. Simulations may also include the use of case studies/scenarios and role plays. | |
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit | Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to recognise situations requiring action and then in implementing appropriate corrective action. While it is not expected that the operator will understand the full implications of readings outside the normal range, there should be awareness of the safety implications and the appropriate priority for response for such readings. Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that: readings which are out of range or unusual/unexpected signs of problems or potential problems with the equipment/processes are recognised appropriate action is taken in a timely manner hazards are recognised and appropriate action is taken to control risks arising from such hazards. These aspects may be best assessed using a range of scenarios/case studies/what-ifs as the stimulus, with a walk-through forming part of the response. The assessment activities should include responding to a range of problems. | |
Context of and specific resources for assessment | Assessment will require access to an operating plant over an extended period of time, or a suitable method of gathering evidence of operating ability over a range of situations. A bank of scenarios/case studies/what-ifs will be required as will a bank of questions which will be used to probe the reasoning behind the observable actions. | |
Method of assessment | In all plants it may be appropriate to assess this unit concurrently with relevant teamwork and communication units. It may be appropriate to assess this unit concurrently with units related to HSE. | |
Guidance information for assessment | Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the oracy, language and literacy capacity of the assessee and the work being performed. |
Range Statement
The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the Performance Criteria, is detailed below. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs if the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts. | |
Codes of practice/ standards | Where reference is made to industry codes of practice, and/or Australian/international standards, the latest version must be used. |
Context | This unit applies to reading process instrumentation in any plant or related situation. Readings may need to be made at heights, in wet or restricted conditions, or close to hot or moving equipment. |
Dials and indicators | Typical dials and indicators include (select relevant items): analogue dials, such as: pressure gauge rev counter temperature dial digital readouts, such as: pH meter temperature probe ammeter flow meter weigh scales. |
Calibration checks | Calibration checks could include: checking the date that the next calibration is required, eg weigh scale, pressure gauge using a calibration button on the instrument, eg zero button on an ammeter, calibration button on an electronic meter. |
Appropriate action | Appropriate action includes: determining problems needing action determining possible fault causes rectifying problem using appropriate solution within area of responsibility following through items initiated until final resolution has occurred reporting problems outside area of responsibility to designated person. |
Health, safety and environment (HSE) | All operations to which this unit applies are subject to stringent health, safety and environment requirements, which may be imposed through State or Federal legislation, and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between Performance Criteria and HSE requirements, the HSE requirements take precedence. |
Sectors
Unit sector | Operational/technical |
Employability Skills
This unit contains employability skills. |
Licensing Information
Not applicable.