Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:11 PM AWST

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Operate vehicles in the field

Operate vehicles in the field

Unit of competency
National Code
PMASUP236
State Code
AXM50
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
02/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030515 - Automotive Vehicle Operations
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
20
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to prepare and operate vehicles and related equipment to patrol pipelines or otherwise drive across a variety of terrains. This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to check their vehicle daily for damage, ensure fuels and lubricant levels are maintained, effect minor repairs, prepare and maintain field equipment, and communicate with their base station.In a typical scenario an operations technician patrols areas of pipeline or follows pipelines across a variety of terrains looking for problems which require maintenance or reporting, or drives to remote facilities. During the course of their work they must check the vehicle for mechanical soundness before leaving base, ensure it is securely and adequately packed, make certain their communications equipment and contact schedule are in order and generally be prepared for long periods off-road.Generally the operations technician would be part of a team during field trips, though they may be required to undertake limited trips. At all times they would be liaising and cooperating with their base station. Operators must have the appropriate class of driver's licence before taking charge of the vehicle. No other licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Prepare vehicle and secure load
  • 1.1 Conduct vehicle familiarisation checks before starting journey
  • 1.2 Note and rectify any defects, where possible, or report vehicle for further attention/repair
  • 1.3 Ascertain that all required fuel, water and other supplies required for the journey are available and in useable order
  • 1.4 Inspect all ancillary equipment and operational accessories to ensure they have been attached or secured in a safe and agreed manner
  • 1.5 Secure load, including external loads, rear tray, roof racks, and any loads within the vehicle, using appropriate securing equipment
2 Undertake journey
  • 2.1 Familiarise oneself with the route to ensure that an appropriate route has been determined
  • 2.2 Interpret access manuals and topographical maps in order to obtain required information for journey
  • 2.3 Obtain relevant authorisations/notifications and accesses before starting the journey
  • 2.4 Confirm and/or clarify or communicate journey details with relevant company personnel
  • 2.5 Monitor driving conditions and requirements constantly, to meet any changes in terrain, weather conditions and road conditions and requirements
  • 2.6 Monitor and maintain fluid levels and air pressures to ensure safe and efficient vehicle operations
  • 2.7 Monitor vehicle constantly for any malfunctions or factors that may affect vehicle performance
  • 2.8 Maintain vehicle speeds within all stated limits and road condition limitations to minimise the risk of personal injury, environmental damage and load damage
  • 2.9 Maintain communication as required with the relevant company personnel to advise of progress and journey status
  • 2.10 Ensure seatbelts are worn by all personnel while the vehicle is in motion
3 Operate vehicle
  • 3.1 Apply knowledge of vehicle differences to the driving requirements of 4WD and conventional vehicles
  • 3.2 Adhere to general principles of four wheel driving in negotiating a variety of terrains and driving conditions
  • 3.3 Use defensive driving techniques
  • 3.4 Observe additional precautions for night driving
  • 3.5 Drive to suit road conditions
  • 3.6 Observe rules prohibiting driving under the influence of alcohol and other performance inhibiting substances
4 Finalise journey
  • 4.1 Communicate and confirm termination of journey with the relevant company personnel
  • 4.2 Visually inspect the vehicle to ensure that vehicle is in good repair and order
  • 4.3 Unsecure trailer loads and prepare for unloading utilising the agreed uncoupling process
  • 4.4 Report faults or damage to vehicle to appropriate personnel
5 Recover vehicle
  • 5.1 Identify and assess options for recovery of an immobilised vehicle
  • 5.2 Select and apply appropriate method of vehicle recovery
  • 5.3 Operate recovery equipment safely
  • 5.4 Perform a battery 'jump start' safely
  • 5.5 Observe safety precautions when rigging cables and chains
  • 5.6 Change a wheel on a properly jacked vehicle
6 Maintain vehicle safety
  • 6.1 Observe appropriate speeds for the road conditions
  • 6.2 Observe site-specific vehicle entry restrictions
  • 6.3 Follow appropriate search and rescue notification procedures
  • 6.4 Follow appropriate procedures for passing large or heavy vehicles
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W8937 PMASUP236B Operate vehicles in the field Unit of competency