Unit of competency Outline
Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:01 PM AWST
22/07/2026 3:01 PM AWST
Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.
Research and recommend hard materials and finishes for interiors
Research and recommend hard materials and finishes for interiors
Unit of competency
National Code
LMFID4006A
LMFID4006A
State Code
WA339
WA339
TGA Status
Replaced
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Replaced
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
16/11/2011
Field of Education
040107 - Interior And Environmental Design
Original Release Date
16/11/2011
Nominal Hours
40
Description
This unit specifies the outcomes required to research and recommend hard materials and finishes for various interior decoration and design solutions.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify hard material requirements for project
- 1.1. Applicable OHS, legislative and organisational requirements relevant to researching and recommending hard materials are verified and complied with
- 1.2. Project brief is reviewed to determine desired effects for interior space
- 1.3. Parameters for the project are assessed and confirmed with client
- 1.4. Resources are selected appropriate to work requirements and checked for operational effectiveness
- 1.5. Communication with appropriate personnel is established and maintained
2. Identify types and features of hard materials
- 2.1. Types of hard materials and their suitability to wall, floor, ceiling and stair applications is identified
- 2.2. Types of hard materials and their suitability to window and door applications are identified
- 2.3. Other hard material products and their features and applications are identified
- 2.4. Hard material requirements for application in a residential environment are analysed
- 2.5. Hard material requirements for application in a commercial or industrial environment are analysed
- 2.6. Environmental and sustainability considerations for hard materials are examined
3. Research hard materials
- 3.1. Aesthetic requirements of the space are assessed
- 3.2. New hard material technologies are researched and reported
- 3.3. Tactile requirements of the hard materials in relation to the design are researched
- 3.4. Application methods and available expertise for the desired effect are assessed
- 3.5. Manufacturing processes and available expertise for the desired material are assessed
- 3.6. Costs of hard materials are assessed and compared
- 3.7. Environmental impact of hard materials are assessed
- 3.8. Longevity and restorability of hard materials are researched
- 3.9. Hazards associated with the use and application of hard materials are researched
- 3.10. Quality of hard materials are assessed
4. Recommend hard materials
- 4.1. Elements and principles of design are used to examine the appropriateness of hard materials for client brief requirements
- 4.2. Hard materials are selected to meet client brief requirements
- 4.3. Presentation of research information is made, highlighting the findings and rationale for the hard materials chosen
- 4.4. Presentation includes a range of presentation strategies including one or more materials boards
RANGE STATEMENT
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.
OHS requirements
are to be in accordance with Commonwealth, State or Territory legislation and regulations, organisational safety policies and procedures. Requirements may include but not be limited to the use of personal protective equipment and clothing, fire fighting equipment, first aid equipment, hazard and risk control and elimination of hazardous materials and substances, manual handling including lifting and carrying
Legislative requirements
are to be in accordance with applicable legislation from all levels of government that affect organisational operation. Requirements may include but not be limited to award and enterprise agreements, industrial relations, Australian Standards, confidentiality and privacy, OHS, the environment, equal opportunity, anti-discrimination, relevant industry codes of practice, duty of care and heritage
Organisational requirements
may include but not be limited to legal, organisational and site guidelines, policies and procedures relating to own role and responsibility, quality assurance, procedural manuals, quality and continuous improvement processes and standards, OHS, emergency and evacuation, ethical standards, recording and reporting, access and equity principles and practices, equipment use, maintenance and storage, environmental management (waste disposal, recycling and re-use guidelines)
Hard materials
may include but not be limited to paints, waxes, lacquers, stains, pigments, oils, traditional finishes, plastic coatings, UV protected coatings, liquid coatings, synthetic coatings, synthetics, paper, glass, vinyls, textiles, laminates, plastics, stainless steel, metals, veneers, ceramics and stone based products
may also include but not be limited to solid timber (native and imported), manufactured timber products, reconstituted products, composite materials, plastic, metal, alloys, stone based products, glass, fibreglass, foam, synthetics, cardboard, paper products or any other manipulable substance
Project brief
may include but not be limited to client needs and objectives, client aims and objectives and criteria for evaluation, milestones, organisational or personal profiles and aims, image requirements and function, target market, budget, timeline, consultation requirements, colour requirements
Parameters
may include but not be limited to scope of brief, approval to make changes, effect or feel trying to be achieved, functionality (short and long term), budget restrictions and established timelines
Client
may include but not be limited to suppliers, manufacturers, private clients, colleagues, retailers or the public
Resources
may include but not be limited to computers, computer software, design software, computer aided drafting (CAD) software, colour boards, storyboards, swatches, Pantone Matching System (PMS), journals (directions magazines), artistic equipment and products and model making equipment
Communication
may include but not be limited to verbal and non-verbal language, constructive feedback, active listening, questioning to clarify and confirm understanding, use of positive, confident and cooperative language, use of language and concepts appropriate to individual social and cultural differences, control of tone of voice and body language
Appropriate personnel
may include but not be limited to trainers, supervisors, suppliers, clients, colleagues and managers
Aesthetics
may include but not be limited to the consideration of appeal to a large number of people; products are pleasing to the eye of many who view it
Tactile
may include but not be limited to that perceived by the sense of touch and producing the effect of three-dimensional depth
Application methods
may include but not be limited to spraying, painting, applicators, gluing, vacuum wrapping, rubbing and bonding
Manufacturing processes
may include but not be limited to the methods by which the product will be produced, these steps usually entail working from working drawings and specifications, producing components utilising machine operations, assembly of the components and finishing techniques
Environmental impact
may include but not be limited to how the making and use of finishes and materials effects the environment and how its continued use will effect those around you, energy consumption in applying the material, greenhouse gases created, waste levels and resource utilisation. Similarly what impact will be felt by reducing or stopping use of the finish or materials
Longevity and restorability
may include but not be limited to an analysis of how long the finish or material is expected to last, while maintaining quality of aesthetic value and how readily the finish or material can be upgraded, repaired or replaced
Hazards
may include but not be limited to toxins and gases released by some finishes, glues and materials which may be harmful to people if not used correctly
Elements of design
may include but not be limited to line, shape, form (geometric or organic), texture and colour
Principles of design
may include but not be limited to balance, proportion (symmetry, asymmetry), harmony, contrast, pattern, movement, rhythm, unity, style, focus, scale, dominant, sub-dominant or subordinate relationship, emphasis, proximity, alignment, space, anthropometry, ergonomics, arrangement, aesthetic relations, tension and development methods
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.
OHS requirements
are to be in accordance with Commonwealth, State or Territory legislation and regulations, organisational safety policies and procedures. Requirements may include but not be limited to the use of personal protective equipment and clothing, fire fighting equipment, first aid equipment, hazard and risk control and elimination of hazardous materials and substances, manual handling including lifting and carrying
Legislative requirements
are to be in accordance with applicable legislation from all levels of government that affect organisational operation. Requirements may include but not be limited to award and enterprise agreements, industrial relations, Australian Standards, confidentiality and privacy, OHS, the environment, equal opportunity, anti-discrimination, relevant industry codes of practice, duty of care and heritage
Organisational requirements
may include but not be limited to legal, organisational and site guidelines, policies and procedures relating to own role and responsibility, quality assurance, procedural manuals, quality and continuous improvement processes and standards, OHS, emergency and evacuation, ethical standards, recording and reporting, access and equity principles and practices, equipment use, maintenance and storage, environmental management (waste disposal, recycling and re-use guidelines)
Hard materials
may include but not be limited to paints, waxes, lacquers, stains, pigments, oils, traditional finishes, plastic coatings, UV protected coatings, liquid coatings, synthetic coatings, synthetics, paper, glass, vinyls, textiles, laminates, plastics, stainless steel, metals, veneers, ceramics and stone based products
may also include but not be limited to solid timber (native and imported), manufactured timber products, reconstituted products, composite materials, plastic, metal, alloys, stone based products, glass, fibreglass, foam, synthetics, cardboard, paper products or any other manipulable substance
Project brief
may include but not be limited to client needs and objectives, client aims and objectives and criteria for evaluation, milestones, organisational or personal profiles and aims, image requirements and function, target market, budget, timeline, consultation requirements, colour requirements
Parameters
may include but not be limited to scope of brief, approval to make changes, effect or feel trying to be achieved, functionality (short and long term), budget restrictions and established timelines
Client
may include but not be limited to suppliers, manufacturers, private clients, colleagues, retailers or the public
Resources
may include but not be limited to computers, computer software, design software, computer aided drafting (CAD) software, colour boards, storyboards, swatches, Pantone Matching System (PMS), journals (directions magazines), artistic equipment and products and model making equipment
Communication
may include but not be limited to verbal and non-verbal language, constructive feedback, active listening, questioning to clarify and confirm understanding, use of positive, confident and cooperative language, use of language and concepts appropriate to individual social and cultural differences, control of tone of voice and body language
Appropriate personnel
may include but not be limited to trainers, supervisors, suppliers, clients, colleagues and managers
Aesthetics
may include but not be limited to the consideration of appeal to a large number of people; products are pleasing to the eye of many who view it
Tactile
may include but not be limited to that perceived by the sense of touch and producing the effect of three-dimensional depth
Application methods
may include but not be limited to spraying, painting, applicators, gluing, vacuum wrapping, rubbing and bonding
Manufacturing processes
may include but not be limited to the methods by which the product will be produced, these steps usually entail working from working drawings and specifications, producing components utilising machine operations, assembly of the components and finishing techniques
Environmental impact
may include but not be limited to how the making and use of finishes and materials effects the environment and how its continued use will effect those around you, energy consumption in applying the material, greenhouse gases created, waste levels and resource utilisation. Similarly what impact will be felt by reducing or stopping use of the finish or materials
Longevity and restorability
may include but not be limited to an analysis of how long the finish or material is expected to last, while maintaining quality of aesthetic value and how readily the finish or material can be upgraded, repaired or replaced
Hazards
may include but not be limited to toxins and gases released by some finishes, glues and materials which may be harmful to people if not used correctly
Elements of design
may include but not be limited to line, shape, form (geometric or organic), texture and colour
Principles of design
may include but not be limited to balance, proportion (symmetry, asymmetry), harmony, contrast, pattern, movement, rhythm, unity, style, focus, scale, dominant, sub-dominant or subordinate relationship, emphasis, proximity, alignment, space, anthropometry, ergonomics, arrangement, aesthetic relations, tension and development methods
EVIDENCE GUIDE
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
Effectively research and select hard materials to assist with informing the design process and arrive at a solution which meets client requirements
Effectively apply design elements and principles to the research and selection of hard materials
Effectively research and select hard materials in accordance with the concepts and design brief
Comply with legislation, regulations, standards, codes of practice and established safe practices and procedures for researching and recommending hard materials
Communicate effectively and work safely with others in the work area
Context of and specific resources for assessment
The application of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or realistically simulated workplace
Assessment is to occur under standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints
Assessment of essential underpinning knowledge, other than confirmatory questions, will usually be conducted in an off-site context
Assessment is to comply with relevant regulatory or Australian Standards requirements
The following resources should be made available:
workplace location or simulated workplace
materials and equipment relevant to researching and recommending finishes
specifications and work instructions
Method of assessment
Assessment must satisfy the endorsed assessment guidelines of the Furnishing Industry Training Package
Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance (over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts) together with application of underpinning knowledge
Assessment methods must be by direct observation of tasks and include questioning on underpinning knowledge to ensure its correct interpretation and application
Assessment may be applied under project related conditions (real or simulated) and require evidence of process
Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is able not only to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances
Assessment may be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency
Guidance information for assessment
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
Effectively research and select hard materials to assist with informing the design process and arrive at a solution which meets client requirements
Effectively apply design elements and principles to the research and selection of hard materials
Effectively research and select hard materials in accordance with the concepts and design brief
Comply with legislation, regulations, standards, codes of practice and established safe practices and procedures for researching and recommending hard materials
Communicate effectively and work safely with others in the work area
Context of and specific resources for assessment
The application of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or realistically simulated workplace
Assessment is to occur under standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints
Assessment of essential underpinning knowledge, other than confirmatory questions, will usually be conducted in an off-site context
Assessment is to comply with relevant regulatory or Australian Standards requirements
The following resources should be made available:
workplace location or simulated workplace
materials and equipment relevant to researching and recommending finishes
specifications and work instructions
Method of assessment
Assessment must satisfy the endorsed assessment guidelines of the Furnishing Industry Training Package
Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance (over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts) together with application of underpinning knowledge
Assessment methods must be by direct observation of tasks and include questioning on underpinning knowledge to ensure its correct interpretation and application
Assessment may be applied under project related conditions (real or simulated) and require evidence of process
Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is able not only to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances
Assessment may be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency
Guidance information for assessment
Replaces
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51904 | Research and recommend hard materials and finishes for interiors | Module |
Replaced By
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| WI524 | MSFID4006 | Research and recommend hard materials and finishes for interiors | Unit of competency |
| State Code | National Code | Title | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| D668 | CUV40311 | Certificate IV in Design | Qualification |
| W641 | LMF40408 | Certificate IV in Interior Decoration | Qualification |
| W645 | LMF60208 | Advanced Diploma of Interior Design | Qualification |
| W643 | LMF50408 | Diploma of Interior Design and Decoration | Qualification |