Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 11:30 AM AWST
22/07/2026 11:30 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.
Monitor and operate low pressure compressors
Monitor and operate low pressure compressors
Unit of competency
National Code
PMAOPS234
PMAOPS234
State Code
AXN32
AXN32
TGA Status
Current
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Approved
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
20
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate low pressure compressors. The compressor may be technically sophisticated and/or have sophisticated controls built in, but its operation is relatively simple. It may have essential ancillary equipment but the operation of this ancillary equipment is largely integrated with the normal operation of the compressor unit itself. The compressors will typically be used to provide suction or a moderately low pressure only. One example is the operation of a low pressure, low volume screw compressor in a coal seam gas (CSG) gathering system.This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to start up and shut down the equipment, complete routine checks, monitor its performance and make adjustments, identify problems and take appropriate action, and maintain records.This unit of competency applies to an individual who may work alone although under routine direction and supervision. They may work as part of a team or group and will work in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator, as appropriate. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Prepare for work
- 1.1 Receive and give shift handover
- 1.2 Identify work requirements
- 1.3 Identify and control hazards
- 1.4 Coordinate with appropriate personnel
- 1.5 Check for recent work undertaken on compressor and ancillary equipment
- 1.6 Note any outstanding/incomplete work
- 1.7 Check operational status of compressor and ancillary equipment
2 Operate compressor in accordance with procedures
- 2.1 Identify type of compressor and its duty
- 2.2 Complete routine checks, reads and logs
- 2.3 Make adjustments required
- 2.4 Identify problems and take action
- 2.5 Complete logs and reports
3 Recognise and take appropriate action on abnormal situations
- 3.1 Monitor compressor frequently and critically throughout shift using measured/indicated data and senses
- 3.2 Identify impacts of any changes upstream and downstream
- 3.3 Recognise situations which may require action
- 3.4 Resolve routine problems
- 3.5 Take actions on other abnormal situations to make safe and have the situation resolved
4 Isolate and de-isolate compressor
- 4.1 Complete any required pre-start checks
- 4.2 Start up and shut down compressor according to compressor type and duty in liaison with other personnel
- 4.3 Isolate compressor
- 4.4 Make safe as required
- 4.5 Check compressor and ancillary equipment are ready to be returned to service
- 4.6 De-isolate and prepare plant for return to service
No information
No information
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| WC253 | PMAOPS234A | Monitor and operate low pressure compressors | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| BAN1 | PMA20116 | Certificate II in Process Plant Operations | Qualification |
| BAM8 | PMA30116 | Certificate III in Process Plant Operations | Qualification |
| BGB2 | PMA30120 | Certificate III in Process Plant Operations | Qualification |
| BAN0 | PMA40116 | Certificate IV in Process Plant Technology | Qualification |