Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 4:26 PM AWST

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Safely operate a mechanically powered recreational boat

Safely operate a mechanically powered recreational boat

Unit of competency
National Code
MEM50009
State Code
OAS96
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
26/06/2019
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
24/01/2020
Field of Education
031705 - Marine Craft Operation
Original Release Date
24/01/2020
Nominal Hours
18
Description
This unit of competency was developed by the National Marine Safety Committee (NMSC) and defines the skills and knowledge required to safely handle/operate a powered recreational boat on coastal and inland waters and includes manoeuvring and handling the boat as well as safe navigation and anchoring.This unit is one of three core competencies that have been adopted by all government marine safety authorities to contribute to and promote the safe use of waterways and awareness of boating safety and applies specifically to mechanical powered recreational boats, including personal watercraft. However, it is recognised that some aspects of this competency apply to any recreational vessel.Unit MEM50008 Carry out trip preparation and planning and unit MEM50010 Respond to boating emergencies and incidents are the other two NMSC core units.Some jurisdictions may require the holder of this unit to be licensed or certified and users should check with the relevant authorities.Band: AUnit Weight: 2
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Manoeuvre and handle the boat
  • 1.1 Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • 1.2 Comply with work health and safety (WHS) requirements at all times
  • 1.3 Undertake a pre-start checks and start motor
  • 1.4 Manoeuvre boat safely according to conditions and in accordance with water traffic regulations
  • 1.5 Monitor performance of the boat and personnel at all times
  • 1.6 Consider impact of boat use on others and the environment
  • 1.7 Use safety equipment, stow and, as required, wear in accordance with legislation and recognised regulations and rules
2 Navigate safely
  • 2.1 Identify aids to small craft navigation
  • 2.2 Apply collision avoidance techniques when required in accordance with relevant legislation, recognised regulations and rules
  • 2.3 Carry out operation of the boat at all times in accordance with relevant legislation, recognised regulations and rules
  • 2.4 Use navigational aids and landmarks to determine and monitor boat position
  • 2.5 Take into account hazards and conditions in navigating the boat
3 Anchor the boat
  • 3.1 Select anchorage site in accordance with prevailing and forecast conditions and in accordance with legislation
  • 3.2 Use type of anchor and anchoring system suitable for location
  • 3.3 Lower, set and monitor anchor according to prevailing conditions
  • 3.4 Retrieve and securely stow anchor
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W5345 MEM50009B Safely operate a mechanically powered recreational boat Unit of competency