Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 12:01 AM AWST

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Manage a surface irrigation system

Manage a surface irrigation system

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCIRG423A
State Code
WE047
TGA Status
Deleted
DTWD Status
Deleted
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
22/06/2012
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
09/04/2013
Field of Education
059999 - Agriculture, Environmental And Related Studies, N.e.c.
Original Release Date
09/04/2013
Nominal Hours
70
Description
This Unit covers the process of managing a surface irrigation system and defines the standard required to: develop procedures for system operation; troubleshoot faults and blockages; measure performance of the system; and benchmark energy use and water efficiency of the system.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Ensure the surface irrigation system is prepared for operation
  • 1.1 Staff are trained in carrying out pre-start checks and routine servicing
  • 1.2 The irrigation controller is programmed and/or adjusted to meet the required schedule
  • 1.3 Procedures are established for adjusting valves and checking filters and emitters
2 Develop and implement start-up and shutdown procedures for a surface irrigation system
  • 2.1 Start-up procedures for a sprinkler irrigation system are developed according to system specifications and technical manuals
  • 2.2 Training is provided in priming pumps and setting gates to commence irrigating
  • 2.3 Shut down sequence and isolation procedures are developed according to system specifications and technical manuals
  • 2.4 Soil conditions for operation are specified, or tracks maintained, to reduce compaction
3 Measure performance of a surface irrigation system
  • 3.1 Variations in pressures at the headworks and control valves are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.2 Water flow rates are measured and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.3 Variations in water flow and distribution are identified and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.4 Pump performance parameters are measured as necessary and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.5 Variations in pump performance parameters are measured where relevant and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.6 Distribution, drainage and water measurement systems are inspected and malfunctions in system are identified, fixed and actions recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 3.7 Factors external to the system that may cause interference are identified and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
4 Review system performance status
  • 4.1 System pressures and variations are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 4.2 System flow rates and variations are recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 4.3 Distribution uniformity and mean application rates are calculated and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 4.4 Watering depth is determined and recorded in accordance with enterprise policy and procedures
  • 4.5 Quantity and quality of tailwater are measured, and amount of water reused
  • 4.6 Calculations are made for energy use and water efficiency and compared to industry benchmarks
The range statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.
Surface irrigation systems may include:
any systems that apply water across the surface of a levelled or contoured area. These include furrow, border and basin irrigation.
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this Unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this Unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:
develop procedures for system operation
troubleshoot faults and blockages
measure performance of the system
benchmark energy use and water efficiency of the system
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.
No information
State Code National Code Title Type
J158 AHC41112 Certificate IV in Irrigation Qualification