Elements and Performance Criteria

Context
This competency unit includes -
timber, glass fibre, metal casing, latex rubber, plaster and other moulds
use of hand tools as required
interpretation of production schedules/work cards as appropriate
interpreting plans or specifications
placement of reinforcing and accessories
placement and stressing of strands
compaction using vibrating tables and immersion vibrators as appropriate to the enterprise.
This competency includes the operation of all ancillary equipment and the operation of plant using PLCs where appropriate.
Typical routine problems could include -
interpretation of drawings and matching reinforcement and moulds to drawing
slippage, breaking of tensioned strands
compacting product and tight bends/clearances
wear and tear on mould parts
loose or missing bolts
bolt holes
stretched rubber
moulds coming apart.
Accessories could include -
pipes/tubing
hooks
cones.
All operations are performed in accordance with standard procedures and work instructions.

OHS
All operations are subject to stringent OHS requirements and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between performance criteria and OHS requirements, the OHS requirements take precedence.

Assessment context and methods
Competence in this unit may be assessed by observation over time on an operating plant. Where this is done, the timeframe must allow for adequate assessment of operation under all normal and a range of abnormal conditions. Where this is not practical, additional assessment techniques must be used.
Competence may also be assessed by use of a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios. A combination of these techniques should be used to ensure the competency is adequately assessed.
In all cases it is expected that the practical assessment will be supported by targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge. Questioning will be undertaken in such a manner as is appropriate to the language and literacy levels of the operator and reflecting the requirements of the competency.

Critical aspects
It is essential that the equipment be understood and that the importance of critical mould properties and dimensions is known. Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to recognise and analyse potential situations requiring action and then in implementing appropriate corrective action.

Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that:

moulds are withdrawn for repair as required
moulds drawn from the mould store are in good order
stocks of spares are kept at appropriate levels
correct moulds available for required jobs
product is cast with correct amount and grade of concrete
product is vibrated to give a consistent product without air holes
products are made consistently in minimum time and with minimum patching
finishing is within specifications
good OHS practice is used consistently.
Competence must be demonstrated in the operation of all ancillary equipment to the level required for this competency unit.

Resource implications
Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment which allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios will also be required where these 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 lunch room. No other special resources are required.

Essential knowledge and enterprise requirements
Knowledge and understanding of moulds and their use sufficient to recognise potential problems in advance of causing reject products.
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 assembly of moulds.

Competence includes the ability to:


apply and/or describe:

causes of mould wear
results of using worn moulds
problems resulting from mould leakage
importance of vibration on compaction
required concrete cover of reinforcing
hazards from pre-stressed reinforcement

distinguish between causes of faults such as:

mould
casting/operating
concrete mix
vibration
as is relevant to the practical operation of the plant.

Communicating ideas and information
(1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
(2)

Planning and organising activities
(2)

Working with others and in teams
(1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
(1)

Solving problems
(1)

Using technology
(1)