Module Outline

Information current as of
19/10/2026 5:02 AM AWST

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Use basic soils in engineering

Use basic soils in engineering

Module
National Code
DCSBSE612
State Code
AZ045
DTWD Status
Approved
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
18/11/2021
Field of Education
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to interpret the engineering properties of soils and to carry out appropriate soil tests.

The unit of competency is applied by technicians who work in a civil and structural engineering environment in analysing soils.

No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
General notes
No information
No information
Elements and Performance Criteria
Classify soils.
  • 1.1 Use standard industry symbols to identify soil types.
  • 1.2 Describe in detail a sieve analysis test on a gravel soil.
  • 1.3 Outline the outcome of a sieve analysis test as well as any other phenomena observed during the test.
  • 1.4 Identify of at least five typical soil types.
Analyse soil compaction.
  • 2.1 Describe soil index properties.
  • 2.2 Outline compaction theory, including the concept of dry density.
  • 2.3 Describe in detail a standard compaction test.
  • 2.4 Outline the outcome of a compaction test as well as any other phenomena observed during a test.
Examine soil plasticity.
  • 3.1 Explain the concepts of: (a) liquid limit (b) plastic limit (c) plasticity index
  • 3.2 Describe in detail a liquid limit test.
  • 3.3 Outline the outcome of a liquid limit test as well as any other phenomena observed during the test.
  • 3.4 Describe in detail a plastic limit test.
  • 3.5 Outline the outcome of a plastic limit test as well as any other phenomena observed during the test.
  • 3.6 Determine the plasticity index of a clay.
Classify soil permeability and subsurface water.
  • 4.1 Explain Darcy’s equation for permeability.
  • 4.2 Describe and define key aspects of subsurface water flow in soils.
  • 4.3 Describe in detail a constant-head permeability test.
  • 4.4 Outline the outcome of a permeability test as well as any other phenomena observed during the test.
No information
Associated Qual/Courses
State Code National Code Title Type
BGQ97 52873WA Advanced Diploma of Civil and Structural Engineering Accredited course
BGR66 52889WA Diploma of Civil and Structural Engineering Accredited course