Elements and Performance Criteria

This competency unit may vary between enterprises depending upon a range of practices and procedures, with consideration given to plant configuration and process. This will include:
cleaning methods and procedures
the type of tools and equipment used in special situations
the use of personal protective equipment.

This competency unit may also vary depending upon the use of a variety of equipment and supplies such as:
cleaning equipment and materials
brooms
shovels
solvents
waste containers
safety equipment.

Typical problems include:
correct equipment not immediately available
safety issues associated with cleaning
ensuring that housekeeping aids rather than interferes with production.
All operations are performed in accordance with standard procedures and work instructions.

Essential knowledge and enterprise requirements
Knowledge and understanding of the process sufficient to recognise non-standard situations and then determine an appropriate action which is consistent with operating guidelines.
Knowledge of the enterprise's standard procedures and work instructions and relevant regulatory requirements, along with the ability to implement them within appropriate time constraints and in a manner relevant to the operation of the process.

Competence includes the ability to:


apply and describe:

duty of care
requirements for housekeeping process
procedures for plant maintenance
safe handling procedures
the standard of cleanliness required

distinguish between:

reusable materials and waste
routine and special cleaning needs
as is relevant to the practical operation of the process.

Critical aspects
It is essential that the process be understood and that the importance of good housekeeping known. Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to recognise and analyse potential situations requiring action and then in implementing appropriate corrective action.

Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that:

early warning signs of areas in need of cleaning are recognised
work areas are kept tidy and clean
equipment is neatly stored, in a safe manner, in the correct location at all times when not in use
equipment is always tidy and safe when in use.
Competence must be demonstrated in the operation of all ancillary equipment to the level required for this competency unit.

Concurrent assessment and prerequisite competencies
This unit has no prerequisite competencies.
Individual enterprises may choose to add prerequisites and corequisites relevant to their processes.

Assessment method, context and resource implications
Competence in this unit may be assessed by observation over time on an operating plant. Where this is done, the timeframe must allow for adequate assessment of operation under all normal and a range of abnormal conditions. Where this is not practical, additional assessment techniques must be used.
Competence may also be assessed by use of a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios. A combination of these techniques should be used to ensure the competency is adequately assessed.
In all cases it is expected that the practical assessment will be supported by targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge. Questioning will be undertaken in such a manner as is appropriate to the language and literacy levels of the operator and reflecting the requirements of the competency.
Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment which allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios will also be required where these form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunch room. No other special resources are required.

Communicating ideas and information
(1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
(1)

Planning and organising activities
(1)

Working with others and in teams
(1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
(0)

Solving problems
(1)

Using technology
(0)