Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:53 AM AWST

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Develop a water quality monitoring program

Develop a water quality monitoring program

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCNRM510
State Code
OCU00
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
050901 - Land, Parks And Wildlife Management
Original Release Date
21/05/2021
Nominal Hours
110
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to establish requirements for monitoring water quality and developing a program to monitor water quality in a given site. It includes carrying out water monitoring activities and evaluating program effectiveness.The unit applies to individuals working in the role of manager concerned with gathering information for land or water management purposes, which may include consultation with specialists such as hydrologists and hydrographers. They also analyse information and exercise judgement to complete their duties with a deep knowledge in water management. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine water quality monitoring program requirements
  • 1.1 Consult with client to identify scope, objectives and constraints in a program brief
  • 1.2 Research and evaluate background information relevant to survey type and site
  • 1.3 Determine water quality indicators to be measured, frequency and volume of sampling required to meet program brief
  • 1.4 Establish procedures for data collection, processing and reporting according to program brief and legislative requirements
  • 1.5 Seek estimates of costs and source of funds for the program
  • 1.6 Identify and assess workplace health and safety hazards for conducting the sampling program
  • 1.7 Provide a survey strategy to stakeholders for discussion and approvals according to program brief
2. Undertake a site analysis
  • 2.1 Identify and record biophysical elements of the site
  • 2.2 Identify and record resource management factors contributing to water quality
  • 2.3 Survey site biota according to program brief
  • 2.4 Identify and evaluate sampling points for safety, accessibility and opportunities for repeatable data collection
3. Plan monitoring program
  • 3.1 Select suitable sites for repeatable monitoring to obtain representative samples
  • 3.2 Source laboratory and field equipment for monitoring program, and determine costs
  • 3.3 Confirm suitability and availability of laboratory and field equipment
  • 3.4 Confirm surveyor access to site for duration of the monitoring program
  • 3.5 Document workplace health and safety controls and emergency procedures for the program according to workplace policies
  • 3.6 Document environmental sustainability policies and procedures and biosecurity measures
  • 3.7 Document sampling techniques to be used
  • 3.8 Document methods of data collection, monitoring and field techniques for field operators
  • 3.9 Present survey schedules and procedures to stakeholders and client for approval
4. Monitor water quality
  • 4.1 Carry out water quality monitoring tasks according to plan
  • 4.2 Transport, store and treat samples to preserve the reliability and fidelity of sample results
  • 4.3 Monitor surveying process for accuracy, and compliance with the survey plans and procedures
  • 4.4 Implement contingency plans when problems arise, whilst continuously assessing and evaluating the plan for errors and inconsistencies
5. Evaluate program
  • 5.1 Record and save data according to plan requirements
  • 5.2 Analyse data collected according to industry policies and guidelines and scientific standards
  • 5.3 Draw outcomes, conclusions or trends from the monitoring program using industry standards for interpretation of water quality data and appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments
  • 5.4 Seek advice from client as to satisfaction with monitoring program in terms of the process and outcomes
  • 5.5 Provide report on outcomes to client with recommendations for changes and improvements for any further monitoring activities
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAP18 AHCNRM502 Develop a water quality monitoring program Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BGF9 AHC51120 Diploma of Conservation and Ecosystem Management Qualification