Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 7:45 AM AWST

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Measure and process low and medium flows using area velocity methods

Measure and process low and medium flows using area velocity methods

Unit of competency
National Code
NWPHYD011
State Code
AVZ19
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
07/12/2015
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
15/04/2016
Field of Education
010711 - Hydrology
Original Release Date
15/04/2016
Nominal Hours
60
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills required to collect stream discharge data using a range of current meters. An understanding of risk assessment and factors affecting the accuracy and precision of the area velocity method is essential to performance.This unit applies to hydrographers employed by the water industry and to water operators involved in the monitoring of all the elements of the water cycle and their impact on the related environment.The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures and relevant industry standards must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those relating to WHS, Bureau of Meteorology, World Meteorological Organisation and Australian Standards.Those undertaking this unit would work in small teams, mostly under supervision, while performing complex tasks in a broad range of contexts that could be unpredictable, including remote, confined spaces, near water and/or at heights.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare to collect discharge data
  • 1.1 Identify the monitoring objective of the site and gauging requirements.
  • 1.2 Identify, analyse and confirm the data collection method required by the organisation.
  • 1.3 Select appropriate equipment and confirm site conditions are within instrument specifications.
  • 1.4 Verify calibration and maintenance status.
  • 1.5 Evaluate site conditions and prepare for taking measurements.
  • 1.6 Identify possible influences on discharge measurement.
  • 1.7 Select the cross-section for discharge measurement.
2. Collect depth and velocity data
  • 2.1 Measure the width of the section.
  • 2.2 Select appropriate sounding points (verticals) to subdivide the cross-section.
  • 2.3 Measure the depth of vertical.
  • 2.4 Select method to suit the ambient conditions and flow.
  • 2.5 Collect velocity data at appropriate depth(s) for each vertical.
3. Calculate discharge
  • 3.1 Calculate the point velocity.
  • 3.2 Calculate the mean velocity for each vertical.
  • 3.3 Calculate the area of subsection corresponding to each vertical.
  • 3.4 Calculate the discharge corresponding to each subsection.
  • 3.5 Calculate the area and discharge at the section by summation of the subsection data.
  • 3.6 Apply corrections for oblique flow as required.
4. Complete recording and reporting requirements for discharge measurement
  • 4.1 Gather supporting information from the site and complete documentation.
  • 4.2 Calculate and record the mean stage height and rate of change using relevant mathematical techniques.
  • 4.3 Grade and record the gauging quality.
  • 4.4 Check records.
  • 4.5 Enter gauging into ratings database.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D1918 NWP340A Measure and process hydrometric stream discharge data using wading gaugings Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OCW33 NWPHYD007 Measure discharge using wading method Unit of competency