Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 5:06 AM AWST

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Sample soils and interpret results

Sample soils and interpret results

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCSOL406
State Code
OCT15
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
24/12/2020
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
21/05/2021
Field of Education
010709 - Soil Science
Original Release Date
21/05/2021
Nominal Hours
55
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare for soil sampling, collect soil samples and interpret test results.The unit applies to individuals who apply specialist skills and knowledge to sample soils and interpret results. This includes applying and communicating non-routine technical solutions to predictable and unpredictable problems.All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures, health and safety in the workplace requirements, legislative and regulatory requirements, and sustainability and biosecurity practices.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for soil sampling
  • 1.1 Identify soil to be sampled and sampling method
  • 1.2 Select tools, equipment and machinery required for safely collecting soil samples according to testing agency requirements
  • 1.3 Identify areas of homogeneous soil types for sampling
  • 1.4 Locate services in consultation with site supervisor
  • 1.5 Identify hazards and assess risks in the workplace, and implement controls to manage risks according to workplace health and safety procedures
  • 1.6 Select, fit and use safety and personal protective equipment according to workplace procedures
  • 1.7 Prepare a clean and safe work area and maintain throughout and on completion of work
2. Determine soil characteristics by performing soil sampling
  • 2.1 Determine the density and depth for a representative sampling of the area
  • 2.2 Take soil sub-samples at identified sampling sites
  • 2.3 Collect soil samples for testing
  • 2.4 Prepare, package, label and dispatch samples for off-site testing
  • 2.5 Document the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil
  • 2.6 Clean and store sampling and testing tools, equipment and machinery according to workplace requirements
3. Interpret results of soil analysis
  • 3.1 Classify the soil types of the sample area according to standards for soil classification
  • 3.2 Determine, from published data and records, the acceptable soil physical and chemical parameters for a specified plant
  • 3.3 Compare collected analytical results with acceptable physical and chemical parameters for a specified plant
  • 3.4 Evaluate soil characteristics to determine whether they can be altered to meet plant needs
  • 3.5 Determine the Readily Available Water (RAW) values for irrigation sites
  • 3.6 File and record results according to workplace procedures
  • 3.7 Provide recommendations to improve soil characteristics
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAR13 AHCSOL401 Sample soils and interpret results Unit of competency