Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in particular training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available.

What OHS hazards may be associated with gravesite preparation?
OHS hazards may include problems associated with working in confined spaces, e.g., changes in atmospheric pressure, atmospheric contaminants, unsafe oxygen levels and engulfment, solar radiation, uneven surfaces and large obstacles.

What personal protective clothing and equipment are likely to be used when preparing a gravesite?
Personal protective clothing and equipment may include breathing apparatus appropriate for working in confined spaces, boots, gloves, overalls, sun hat, sunscreen lotion, protective headgear and waterproof clothing.

What tools, equipment and machinery may be required when preparing a gravesite?
Tools, equipment and machinery may include spades, shovels, rakes, crowbars, augers, wheelbarrows, earth moving machinery, a sludge pump and compacters.

What are the OHS requirements to be observed with regard to access and egress from the excavated grave?
OHS requirements may include observance of the Approved Code of Practice AS 2885 Safe Work in Confined Spaces, relevant Local Government Acts, General Cemetery Regulations, enterprise policies and the use of an approved ladder - a ladder that complies with the requirements of Australian Standard AS 1892 and extends from the base of the excavation to at least 600mm above the top of the grave.

What protective restraints may apply to this standard?
Protective restraints may include barricades, temporary fencing and reinforced covers.

What is likely to be done to enhance a gravesite?
Enhancing a gravesite may include placement of monuments, headstones or masonry, planting of flowers or other vegetation, erection of fencing, laying of gravel/pebbles or the installation of other decorative features.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?Competence in preparing a gravesite requires evidence that work can be done with a co-worker or in a team to prepare a site for excavation, assist with and support excavation activities, fill up the hole after burial and enhance the gravesite on completion.The skills and knowledge required to prepare a gravesite must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, a person must have the knowledge to prepare a gravesite in different types of soil, to varying dimensions and depths and with regard to individual client requests for enhancement of gravesites.
What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?

Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this competency standard are listed below:

OHS responsibilities of employees
applied understanding of safe work practices when working in and around confined spaces
the environmental impact of soil disturbance when excavating a grave
the environmental implications of pumping sludge water from an excavation site and the effects it may have on surrounding gravesites.

What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?

To achieve the performance criteria, appropriate literacy and numeracy levels as well as some complementary skills are required. These include the ability to:

prepare site for excavation
assist with the excavation
shore up sides of grave as required
backfill and enhance the gravesite following burial.

What processes should be applied to this competency standard?There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
Communicating ideas and information
Information about the gravesite to be prepared and excavated may need to be discussed with the supervisor or others in the work team. (1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Information regarding the enhancement of a gravesite after burial may need to be collected, analysed and organised. (1)

Planning and organising activities
Tools, equipment, machinery and work procedures for preparing a gravesite may need to be arranged before and after burial and there may be some responsibility for co-ordinating work with others. (1)

Working with others and in teams
The preparation of a gravesite may involve working with other members of a team to complete the project. (1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
Mathematical ideas and techniques may be used when measuring dimensions and depth of grave to be excavated and also when following correct procedures for shoring of the grave. (1)

Solving problems
Problems may arise in the excavation or backfilling of a grave relating to soil, water and weather conditions. These problems may need to be addressed quickly. (1)

Using technology
Calculators may be used to determine calculations for the excavation works. (1)