Unit of competency Outline

Information current as of
23/10/2026 3:24 PM AWST

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Operate X-Ray machine

Operate X-Ray machine

Unit of competency
National Code
HLTTEC301D
State Code
WD300
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Deleted
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
07/05/2012
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
19/07/2012
Original Release Date
07/05/2012
Nominal Hours
20
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Description
DescriptorThis unit describes the competencies required to operate and maintain a diagnostic X-ray machine for use in clinical practice in accordance with radiation safety guidelines
General notes
N/A
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Operate an X-ray machine
  • 1.1 Operate machine in accordance with the manufacturer specifications and with organisation guidelines, the Radiation Safety Act and Regulations
  • 1.2 Operate and store machine in accordance with organisation and state WHS guidelines and regulations
2. Monitor and maintain an X-ray machine
  • 2.1 Monitor basic machine operation
  • 2.2 Ensure machine is serviced regularly by a qualified X-ray engineer
  • 2.3 Report breakdowns swiftly to a qualified X-ray engineer in accordance with organisation guidelines
  • 2.4 Ensure all repairs are carried out by a qualified X-ray engineer or under the guidance of a qualified X-ray engineer
  • 2.5 Maintain records of services and repairs in accordance with organisation guidelines
  • 2.6 Regularly clean machine in accordance with manufacturer's specifications
The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.


Equipment may include:
Fixed irradiating apparatus (for diagnosis)
Mobile irradiating apparatus (for diagnosis)


Organisation and legislative guidelines may include:
X-ray operators licence (for use of irradiating apparatus for diagnosis)
Radiation Safety Act 1999
Possession by the licensee of a radiation safety and protection plan
X-ray machine operating manuals
WHS guidelines
Procedures manuals
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 this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this competency unit:
The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills
This unit is most appropriately assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace setting under the normal range of workplace conditions
Assessment may be conducted on one occasion but should include a range of clients, reflecting the diverse nature of those for whom service is provided in the workplace context
A diversity of assessment tasks is also essential for holistic assessment


Context of and specific resources for assessment:
Assessment should replicate workplace conditions as far as possible
Resources essential for assessment include:
Radiation Safety Act 1999
Radiation safety and protection plan
X-ray machine operating manuals
Work health and safety (WHS) guidelines
procedures manuals
access to relevant workplace or appropriately simulated environment where assessment can take place


Method of assessment may include:
Written examination to assess theoretical and applied knowledge
On-the-job or role play assessment of prescribed radiographic skills, in particular correct and appropriate use of the X-ray machine
Observation of work activities
Authenticated transcripts of relevant education / training courses


Access and equity considerations:
All workers in the health industry should be aware of access and equity issues in relation to their own area of work
All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment
In recognition of particular health issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on health of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities


Related units:
This unit can be assessed independently
However holistic assessment practice with other X-ray operation units of competency is encouraged
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D8527 HLTTEC301C Operate X-Ray machine Unit of competency
No information