Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:56 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Operate a backhoe, front-end loader or excavator

Operate a backhoe, front-end loader or excavator

Unit of competency
National Code
SIFCBCR015
State Code
WG580
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
10/10/2013
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
14/08/2013
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
14/08/2013
Nominal Hours
80
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to operate a backhoe or frontend loader safely to excavate, level and spread soil, remove and fit relevant attachments and carry out machinery maintenance. It applies to cemetery and crematorium staff involved in burial works activities and work according to work health and safety, relevant legislation and workplace policies and procedures.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan and prepare work.
  • 1.1 Evaluate work activity and determine most productive operating techniques.
  • 1.2 Obtain permits and licences where required.
  • 1.3 Adjust, change and inflate tracks or tyres according to manufacturer guidelines and site conditions.
  • 1.4 Carry out start-up, park, shut-down and communications procedures according to manufacturer guidelines and site specific requirements.
  • 1.5 Check backhoe or loader controls and functions and report faults.
2. Read and interpret site drawings and plans.
  • 2.1 Devise work schedules and methods consistent with work requirements.
  • 2.2 Interpret information written on survey pegs and establish depth and grade to site plans.
  • 2.3 Verify and mark location of services according to plans and drawings.
  • 2.4 Establish features from site drawings or plans.
  • 2.5 Clarify levels on survey pegs.
3. Operate machinery.
  • 3.1 Drive machine according to traffic regulations site plans and operating conditions.
  • 3.2 Select appropriate machines and fit appropriate attachments according to work requirements, soil and rock types, and soil conditions.
  • 3.3 Maintain safe grip and productivity according to operating conditions.
  • 3.4 Strip topsoil according to job specifications.
  • 3.5 Carry out excavation boxing according to job specifications.
  • 3.6 Complete excavations around existing underground services according to work specifications.
  • 3.7 Mix materials according to work specifications.
  • 3.8 Complete backfilling, levelling, spreading and landfilling or landscaping according to work specifications and tolerances.
4. Attach, secure, lift, carry and place materials.
  • 4.1 Establish weight of load and select and attach appropriate slings and gear.
  • 4.2 Secure and check slings and attachments.
  • 4.3 Carry out slinging, lifting, carrying and placing of materials according to work specifications, relevant legislation and manufacturer guidelines.
  • 4.4 Handle loads safely and identify and avoid on-site hazards.
  • 4.5 Observe communication protocols to ensure safety of operator and other personnel.
  • 4.6 Position machine according to type of haul vehicle and job specifications.
  • 4.7 Load trucks and wagons according to work requirements.
5. Maintain backhoe, front end loader or excavator.
  • 5.1 Complete routine operational servicing, lubrication and housekeeping tasks according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • 5.2 Carry out minor maintenance according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • 5.3 Remove and replace worn or defective parts according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • 5.4 Provide support for major vehicle maintenance tasks.
  • 5.5 Record maintenance work.
  • 5.6 Clean and store machine attachments according to manufacturer guidelines.
6. Shut down and clean up.
  • 6.1 Clean, maintain and store tools and equipment according to manufacturer guidelines.
  • 6.2 Dispose of waste material according to relevant legislation.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
S7108 SIFTVM003A Operate a backhoe, front-end loader or excavator Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
J576 SIF30213 Certificate III in Gravedigging, Grounds and Maintenance Qualification