Application
This unit describes the skills required to undertake pilot or escort duties in the movement of oversize and/or over-mass vehicles. It includes preparing pilot and/or escort vehicles or operations, confirming pilot and escort requirements, using pilot and escort communication and maintaining records. Work is carried out in compliance with licence or permit requirements and state/territory regulations relating to piloting and escorting of oversize and/or over-mass vehicles.
This unit applies to those working in road transport regulatory roles who are authorised to pilot and escort oversize and/or over-mass vehicles.
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 independently in consultation with others, performing routine tasks in a range of familiar contexts.
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. Prepare pilot and escort vehicles for operations | 1.1 Identify maintenance needs of pilot and/or escort vehicles and associated equipment from maintenance schedules or reports of faults. 1.2 Carry out minor maintenance on vehicles in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. 1.3 Prepare pilot and/or escort vehicles and associated equipment for operations to manufacturers’ specifications. 1.4 Complete post-maintenance inspections and tests. 1.5 Record identified faults, repairs and the outcomes of inspections. |
2. Confirm pilot and escort requirements | 2.1 Consult with transport companies whose vehicles are scheduled for escort to confirm requirements. 2.2 Confirm authorisation/s for pilot and escort operators as current. 2.3 Verify required permits for completeness and accuracy and inspect all vehicles and drivers to ensure compliance with permits. 2.4 Advise the permit holder of the results of the checks and address any non-compliance before operations begin. 2.5 Brief convoys and give instructions and directions on pilot or escort operations. |
3. Conduct pilot and/or escort operation | 3.1 Implement required vehicle positioning, traffic warning and directional signalling procedures to enable safe passage of the load. 3.2 Operate safety equipment and position roadside obstacles to ensure safe passage of the load. 3.3 Take precautions to ensure that convoy personnel are aware of road and other conditions that may impact on load and vehicle security. 3.4 Prepare contingency and emergency plans to enable unexpected events to be handled safely. 3.5 Undertake required liaison with authorities. |
4. Use pilot and escort communication | 4.1 Operate communications equipment and resources in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. 4.2 Transmit and receive messages. 4.3 Establish backup communication strategies and inform personnel involved of operating and coordination procedures. 4.4 Use alternative communication strategies to communicate messages in response to communications failures and problems. |
5. Maintain records | 5.1 Complete journey documentation. 5.2 Maintain records on oversize and over-mass vehicle movements. 5.3 Report damage and other incidents to authorities. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
receiving and transmitting messages during operations
using required communication protocols
working collaboratively with others in the convoy when piloting or escorting vehicles
addressing problems arising during pilot or escort operations
implementing contingency plans for unexpected events during pilot or escort operations
preparing vehicles for escort
keeping to planned schedule of operations
reading and interpreting permits, signs, procedures and manufacturers specifications
completing documentation and records relating to the movement of oversize and over mass vehicles
interpreting and following instructions
minimising, controlling or eliminating hazards that may exist in pilot or escort operations
modifying activities depending on operational contingencies, risk situations and environments
complying with regulatory requirements, organisational policies and procedures
operating electronic communication equipment
operating communication signage and other communication resources required during pilot or escort operations
piloting and escorting oversize and over-mass vehicles on at least three separate occasions or in three different situations (actual or simulated)
communicating clearly and precisely using required protocols, including at least one instance where alternative strategies are required in response to communication failures and problems
adhering to legal, ethical and organisational requirements relating to pilot and escort duties
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.
road rules, regulations, permit and licence requirements of state/territory roads and traffic authorities pertaining to the piloting and escorting of oversize and over-mass loads
safe, low-risk driving strategies
situational awareness
pre-departure checks required for vehicles, communication equipment and procedures, and signage
factors which may cause traffic delays and diversions and related action that can be taken by a driver
pre-departure planning for delays and diversions
fatigue management
procedures to be followed in the event of a driving and/or piloting and/or escort emergency
documentation requirements for piloting and escorting oversize and or over-mass vehicles
Assessment Conditions
Some components of this unit require assessment in a workplace environment (real or simulated) therefore the unit is not suitable for fully external or electronic based assessment.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
Foundation skills are embedded within the elements and performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Transport