Elements and Performance Criteria

Resource requirements to enable efficient planning and scheduling of routes may include availability of competent meter readers, vehicles and appropriate meter reading equipment.
Schedule requirements should includenumber of days; address and location; previous schedule date; route number; meter count
Aspects to consider when sequencing a route for an individual include distance; weather conditions; terrain; time available; urban/rural area; experience ofmeter reader
Information on the account may include identification number; meter number; property number; position of meter; street name
Records relating to previous routes may include meter access details; warnings relating to dogs; obstacles to access
Methods used to record meter reading may include meter reading cards; meter reading sheets; electronic reading devices such as Portable Data Entry Terminal (PDET)
Damage or faults to meters may include unreadable meters; incorrect meter locations; suspected tampering with the meter; suspected illegal connections
New or changed information may include special customer requirements; addition of new meters; deletion of meter when necessary; changes to meter numbers; changes to property information; change in location of meter

Critical aspects of evidence
Accurately locating meters; accurately reading and recording of meter readings; communicating with customers; developing constructive responses when confronted with problems and difficulties; accurately updating information on the database
Context of assessment
Assessment of competency, including attainment of relevant knowledge and skills may be made through practical demonstration in an actual work environment or simulation of such an environment.
Specialised resources required for training and assessment
Availability of appropriate equipment including street directories, hand held computers or meter reading cards; availability of suitably qualified industry assessors; system which facilitates recording of trainees' profiles and progress; facilities for workplace or simulated environment assessment
Pre-requisites and co-requisite
This unit should be assessed in conjunction with or after competency has been demonstrated in Unit NGS 001 Apply Procedures in the Workplace, Unit NGS 002 Working With Others and Unit NGS 003 Plan and Organise Work Activities and the following units of the Clerical and Administrative Competency Standards:
Knowledge and Skills
The Evidence Guide is a set of guidelines which assist in the development of assessment instruments/tools to assess the competency of workers in the Gas Industry. This requires evidence of consistent achievement of the workplace outcomes covered by the unit.
An employee working at this level is required to plan and determine routes for meter reading sequence; understand and adhere to SOPs; liaise with relevant authorities and personnel; interpret maps and directories to locate meters; understand the types and function of various types of meters; operate a hand held electronic recording devices to record meter readings; accurately interpret and record meter readings; identify and document hazards
Demonstrate the ability to liaise effectively with a range of clients; clear and accurate observation and analytical skills; negotiation and dispute resolution skills; general business and organisational skills; appropriate report and letter writing; written and verbal communication; effective telephone techniques