Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 7:56 AM AWST

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Operate and monitor prime movers

Operate and monitor prime movers

Unit of competency
National Code
PMAOPS221
State Code
AXN41
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
02/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate a prime mover and its ancillary equipment. Prime movers are large high voltage/current electrical motors or diesel engines that are used to drive a high pressure pump or compressor. A prime mover is a complex, independent item of equipment with a specialised start-up and shutdown procedure. It may have its own control panel and inbuilt vibration monitoring equipment.This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to start up and shut down the equipment, monitor its performance, identify operational problems and take appropriate action.This unit of competency applies to an individual who may work alone although under routine direction and supervision. They may work as part of a team or group and will work in liaison with other shift team members and the control room operator, as appropriate.This unit does not apply to close coupled motors which are operated as part of the equipment. The operation of a prime mover may require a 'ticket' (special licence) in some jurisdictions.No other licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Prepare for work
  • 1.1 Receive and give shift handover
  • 1.2 Identify work requirements
  • 1.3 Identify and control hazards
  • 1.4 Coordinate with appropriate personnel
  • 1.5 Check for recent work undertaken on plant item
  • 1.6 Note any outstanding/incomplete work
  • 1.7 Check operational status of equipment
2 Operate prime mover in accordance with procedures
  • 2.1 Identify the type of prime mover and duty
  • 2.2 Operate ancillary equipment
  • 2.3 Adjust prime mover as appropriate to type and duty
  • 2.4 Complete routine checks, logs and paperwork, taking action on unexpected observations, readings and trends
3 Recognise and take action on abnormal situations in accordance with procedures
  • 3.1 Monitor prime mover, air supply, lubrication system and cooling system frequently and critically throughout shift using measured/indicated data and senses
  • 3.2 Identify impacts of any changes upstream and downstream
  • 3.3 Recognise situations which may require action
  • 3.4 Resolve routine problems
  • 3.5 Take actions on other abnormal situations to make safe and have the situation resolved
4 Isolate and de-isolate equipment
  • 4.1 Complete any required pre-start activities, including protection systems
  • 4.2 Start up/shut down prime mover and ancillary equipment according to plant type and duty in liaison with other personnel
  • 4.3 Isolate prime move
  • 4.4 Make safe for required work
  • 4.5 Check prime mover is ready to be returned to service
  • 4.6 De-isolate and prepare prime mover for return to service
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W8854 PMAOPS221B Operate and monitor prime movers Unit of competency