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 training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available.

What tools and equipment are likely to be used when erecting timber structures and features?
Tools and equipment may include levelling equipment, string lines, tape measures, spades and shovels.

What OHS hazards may apply to this standard?
OHS hazards may include manual handling, sun exposure, and wet and slippery surfaces.

What OHS controls may be relevant to this standard?
OHS controls may include safe lifting and transporting techniques, the drinking of fluids, basic first aid, and the appropriate use of personal protective clothing and equipment such as water proof clothing, hat, the erection of safety signs and barriers, and the safe storage of materials on site.

What environmental implications are likely to be considered?
Consideration may be given to the impact of soil disturbance and the alteration to water flow due to the excavation of a site and the installation of drainage systems and water catchment features.

What services are likely to be located on site?
Services may include power, gas, water, stormwater, sewerage or septic connections, phone and optical cables.

What drainage systems are likely to be installed?
Drainage systems may include sumps, agricultural drains, storm water pipes, slotted pipes, open drains and channels.

What accessories are likely to be installed?
Accessories may include electric pumps, pipes, plant materials, safety barriers including fencing, signage or coverings, site furniture, garden ornaments, and other ornamental structures and features.

What safety issues may be considered when installing the water feature and accessories?
Safety issues to consider may include the limiting of access to the water feature by people and animals, the selection of plants to minimise mosquitos and other pests, and the treatment of water to prevent or neutralise contaminants.

How might the water be treated to remove or neutralise contaminants?
Water treatment may include aqua filter pumps to provide more oxygen to the water, plant materials such as lilies, introduction of fish or other water animals, and non-hazardous chemicals or additives.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?Competence in installing water features requires evidence that work can be planned and prepared, that the site can be excavated and made ready according to design drawings and specifications, and that a water feature plus accessories can be installed to the required standards. The skills and knowledge required to install water features must be transferable to a different work environment. For example, this could include different types of features, materials and locations.
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:

regulations regarding water use and safety in public places
pumping systems and accessories associated with water features
pipe sizes, types and applications
plant materials, fish and water animals suitable for various types of water features
water treatment methods
comparative environmental implications associated with soil excavation and the establishment of drainage systems and water catchment features
legislative and regulatory requirements with water feature installation.

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:

measure and calculate area, depth and volume
use some surveyors instruments
install various types of prefabricated water features and/or form them 'in situ'
interpret design drawings and specifications and transpose information to site.

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 regarding water feature accessories may need to be discussed with the client, suppliers and other members of the work team. (2)

Collecting analysing and organising information
Information may be collected, analysed and organised when following manufacturers instructions for installing water features and accessories. (2)

Planning and organising activities
Activities may be planned and organised to ensure efficient use of time and resources. (2)

Working with others and in teams
Team work may be applied when handling large and heavy prefabricated water features. (2)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
The calculation of the depth and dimensions of excavation work may require mathematical skills. (2)

Solving problems
Problems may arise if leaks appear once the feature has been installed and filled with water. (2)

Using technology
Technology may be applied to the mechanical parts of a water feature. (2)