Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 7:01 AM AWST

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Perform complex four wheel drive operations

Perform complex four wheel drive operations

Unit of competency
National Code
FWPCOT3329
State Code
ODS89
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
28/01/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
21/06/2022
Field of Education
030515 - Automotive Vehicle Operations
Original Release Date
21/06/2022
Nominal Hours
70
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely operate four wheel drive vehicles in difficult terrain. Difficult terrain has surface conditions that include frequent steeps and/or rocks, slippery or sandy track sections, and including possible water crossings.The unit applies to individuals who operate four wheel drive vehicles in a variety of work settings and industry sectors,including forestry, agriculture, construction, tourism and energy.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.Individuals seeking to undertake this unit should have prior experience in operating four wheel drive vehicles on unsealed surfaces.Individuals must hold a driver licence or a provisional driver licence prior to commencing this unit of competency.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for complex four wheel drive operations
  • 1.1 Identify and assess types of trip and terrain being accessed for safe operating conditions
  • 1.2 Check vehicle for suitability for the task
  • 1.3 Identify and check operation of suitable communication equipment and protocols in the event of misadventure
  • 1.4 Identify, fit and use suitable personal protective equipment
  • 1.5 Secure loads according to safety, environmental and regulatory requirements
  • 1.6 Ensure emergency rations food/water and clothing are carried
2. Operate vehicle in steep terrain
  • 2.1 Assess the steep terrain and determine what may cause loss of traction
  • 2.2 Perform steep ascent and descent using appropriate driving methods
  • 2.3 Perform forward and reverse stop start recovery on an incline according to the type of transmission
  • 2.4 Set vehicle controls according to manufacturer specifications
3. Operate vehicle over difficult terrain
  • 3.1 Assess difficult terrain
  • 3.2 Select appropriate wheel placement
  • 3.3 Negotiate difficult terrain using vehicle’s traction aids
  • 3.4 Identify impact that wet weather or wet tracks will have on driving style
  • 3.5 Set vehicle controls according to manufacturer specifications
  • 3.6 Check vehicle for damage after driving
4. Operate vehicle through water crossing
  • 4.1 Assess the water crossing
  • 4.2 Identify wading depth of vehicle according to manufacturer specifications
  • 4.3 Identify vulnerable mechanical aspects of the vehicle and prepare the vehicle for water crossing
  • 4.4 Select appropriate range and gear and other traction aids for the water crossing
  • 4.5 Perform water crossing by maintaining steady constant speed
  • 4.6 Drain water from vehicle back into water crossing
  • 4.7 Dry brakes after water crossing
5. Perform post-trip tasks
  • 5.1 Notify relevant personnel of trip completion
  • 5.2 Complete post-trip inspection of vehicle
  • 5.3 Record and report any repairs or replacement or damaged items to relevant personnel
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
AXK63 FWPFGM3215 Perform complex 4x4 operations Unit of competency