Elements and Performance Criteria

This competency unit includes the use of manual handling aids such as handcarts. It may include the use of powered equipment/aids such as electric hoists and cranes, provided they don't require special licensing.

This competency applies to all work environments and sectors within the plastics, rubber and cablemaking industry. It includes the operation of all relevant ancillary equipment.

Standard procedures means all relevant workplace procedures, work instructions, temporary instructions and relevant industry and government codes and standards.

The processes covered by this unit include, but are not limited to:
movement of materials
handling of semi-bulk materials (bulki-boxes, pallecons, etc.)
stacking and storing of materials
storing materials.

This competency includes tools and equipment such as:
hand carts and trolleys
hoists/lifting equipment not requiring any special permits or licences
basic hand tools such as brooms, shovels and knives
relevant personal protective equipment.

Typical hazards include:
spills
dusts/vapours
hazardous materials
manual handling hazards
knife hazards.

Typical problems include:
getting in the way of mobile equipment
contamination of materials
foreign matter being included in selected waste.

All operations are performed in accordance with standard procedures.

Essential knowledge and enterprise requirements:
Knowledge and understanding of the materials, equipment and process sufficient to recognise how those materials are changed through the production process and what methods of disposal are appropriate.
Knowledge of the enterprise's standard procedures and work instructions and relevant regulatory requirements along with the ability to implement them within appropriate time constraints and in a manner relevant to the job.

Competence includes the ability for the practical completion of the job to:
apply and/or explain:
production workflow sequences and the waste produced at each stage
correct selection and use of equipment, materials, processes and procedures
hazards of the materials and process and appropriate hazard control procedures
distinguish between causes of faults such as:
waste materials contaminated with foreign matter
waste materials mixed with recyclables/reusables
incompatible waste materials placed together.

Critical aspects
It is essential that competence is demonstrated in the ability to:
recognise the importance of categories of waste and key waste properties
apply approved procedures
take appropriate action to resolve problems or report problems to appropriate personnel
explain and implement emergency procedures.

Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that:
waste disposal standards are met consistently
communication is timely and effective
procedures are read and interpreted correctly
problems are identified and appropriate action is taken (i.e., the problem is fixed or reported)
all safety procedures are followed.

Language, literacy and numeracy requirements
This unit requires the ability to read and interpret typical product specifications, job sheets and material labels as provided to operators.
Writing is required to the level of completing workplace forms/labels.
Basic numeracy is also required.

Assessment method and context
Competence in this unit may be assessed:
on an operating plant allowing for operation under all normal and a range of abnormal conditions
by use of a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios
by a combination of these techniques.

In all cases it is expected that practical assessment will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge and theoretical assessment will be combined with appropriate practical/simulation or similar assessment.

Resource implications
This section should be read in conjunction with the range of variables for this unit of competency. Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment that allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios and questions will also be required to the extent that they form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunchroom. No other special resources are required.