Unit of competency Outline
Information current as of
22/10/2026 12:59 AM AWST
22/10/2026 12:59 AM AWST
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Operate an inland tug boat
Operate an inland tug boat
Unit of competency
National Code
DEFMIL084
DEFMIL084
State Code
AVQ50
AVQ50
TGA Status
Current
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Approved
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Original Release Date
22/10/2015
Nominal Hours
0
Field of Education
031705 - Marine Craft Operation
Description
This unit describes the skills required to operate an inland tug boat, specifically a purpose built motorised vessel up to ten metres in length capable of manoeuvring pontoons and rafts, with a maximum of five crew. It covers the operation of the tug while towing/pushing unloaded pontoons of up to thirty ton. The watercraft will normally be driven in an environment of protected or inland waterways, while conducting a range of tasks including transporting personnel and/or equipment. While the technical aspects of this competency are concerned with ‘operating a boat’, the specialisation of the skill, and safety issues associated with waterborne operations confer additional responsibilities upon the operator. To operate an inland tug boat, relevant state/territory and Commonwealth licensing requirements must be met.This unit was developed for combat engineer personnel required to operate an inland tug boat in a deployed operational environment, but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.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.The individual will usually operate the boat independently or under indirect supervision and may command a crew of up to five persons. The individual must demonstrate sound judgement in the use of authority, and where possible, work within the existing lines of authority. They use discretion and judgement, and take responsibility for the quality of their outputs while performing routine tasks in a broad range of unpredictable contexts.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
General notes
N/A
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for tug boat operations
- 1.1 Interpret operating instructions to determine the task, the cargo, the destination and route, and compile navigation data.
- 1.2 Check cargo weight is within the safe operating limit of the craft and complete manifests to ensure passengers and cargo are safe to move.
- 1.3 Check equipment for serviceability and replace or reject and report unserviceable items.
- 1.4 Conduct shore preparation and prepare watercraft for launch and watercraft operations.
- 1.5 Select and wear personal protective equipment.
2. Drive tug boat
- 2.1 Brief passengers and crew on safety issues prior to embarking.
- 2.2 Launch tug in accordance with local conditions.
- 2.3 Load and trim tug to ensure safety of crew and craft.
- 2.4 Drive tug consistent with hazards and environmental conditions.
- 2.5 Provide directions to passengers in order to maintain safety and efficient boat operation.
- 2.6 Conduct contingency and emergency drills to minimise threat to personnel and equipment.
3. Manoeuvre pontoon using tug boat
- 3.1 Direct crew to assist with securing and manoeuvring of pontoon.
- 3.2 Capture, secure and control uncontrolled pontoons.
- 3.3 Manoeuvre and assemble pontoons.
- 3.4 Comply with supervisor’s directions/commands to control the movement and momentum of the pontoon.
4. Recover and restore tug boat
- 4.1 Disembark personnel and unload equipment.
- 4.2 Recover tug from a ramp or expedient landing site.
- 4.3 Check tug and associated equipment for serviceability, clean and service, report defects and complete documentation.
- 4.4 Complete debriefings.
- 4.5 Complete post activity reports and documentation.