This unit covers the pruning principles and techniques to perform vegetation clearing activities in accordance with the Australian Standard Pruning of Amenity Trees AS4373 so as to achieve the statutory vegetation clearance requirements near live electrical apparatus up to the live work zone as defined for both Authorised and Instructed Persons in the industry guidelines associated with live electrical apparatus. Pruning activities may be performed from ground level or above ground level.

It does not include the full gamut of rigging techniques and practices required of a Rigger or entry into to the safe approach distance (SAD) as defined for persons, mobile plant, equipment and specialised tools.

Also included is the preparation of risk assessment control measures that encompass job safety assessment. Encompassed is compliance with relevant State or Territory regulatory agencies/bodies, local government legislation, Industry bi-partite body Guidelines/Codes of Practices or other related requirements for safe work and access near live electrical and mechanical apparatus.

Competency is demonstrated by the application of knowledge and skills to a range of pruning tasks and roles usually within established enterprise routines.

The application of the skills and knowledge described in this unit may require a licence to operate specific pieces of equipment, such as elevated work platforms (EWP).

Other conditions may apply under state and territory legislative and regulatory licensing requirements which must be confirmed prior to commencing this unit.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Identify pruning principles and pruning techniques

1.1

Pruning principles are identified in an arboriculture context

1.2

Differentiation between formative, corrective and preventative pruning is identified

1.3

Poor pruning practices effecting the shape and future structure of various tree species are identified

1.4

Pruning requirements for various situations and plant types growing in proximity to power lines are detailed

1.5

Principles of natural target pruning are identified and applied in accordance with industry standards

1.6

Branch collars, branch bark ridge and the sequence for branch removal are identified

2

Prepare for pruning near live electrical apparatus

2.1

Pruning instructions are obtained and confirmed

2.2

Pruning tools and equipment are selected in accordance with the location, access and size of material to be pruned

2.3

Pre-operational and safety checks are carried out on pruning tools and equipment in accordance with manufacturer specifications and enterprise work procedures

2.4

Pruning tools and equipment are prepared for use

2.5

Suitable safety and personal protective equipment (PPE) are selected, used and maintained

3

Undertake pruning near live electrical apparatus

3.1

Pruning site is suitably signed and barricaded during pruning operations in accordance with workplace procedures

3.2

Plant material to be pruned or removed is carried out in accordance with relevant industry standards

3.3

Pruning activities near live electrical apparatus are undertaken in accordance with workplace procedures and work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS)requirements

3.4

Pruning tools and equipment are operated safely and effectively

3.5

Hygiene practices are observed during pruning operations

4

Complete pruning activity near live electrical apparatus

4.1

Prunings and waste material removed from the site are disposed of in an environmentally aware and safe manner in accordance with enterprise work procedures

4.2

Correct manual handling techniques are used when lifting or moving heavy loads

4.3

Pruning tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored in accordance with enterprise work procedures

4.4

A clean and safe area is maintained throughout and on completion of work

4.5

Workplace records are maintained in accordance with enterprise guidelines

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Non-essential conditions may be found in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide.

Not applicable.

Vegetation