Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 4:51 AM AWST

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Develop a water quality monitoring program

Develop a water quality monitoring program

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCNRM502
State Code
BAP18
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
27/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
12/01/2017
Field of Education
030907 - Water And Sanitary Engineering
Original Release Date
12/01/2017
Nominal Hours
100
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to establish requirements for monitoring water quality and developing a program to monitor water quality in a given site. It includes carrying out water monitoring activities and evaluating program effectiveness.This unit applies to those working in the role of coordinator or manager in an organisation, group or enterprise concerned with gathering information for land or water management purposes. The role is likely to include delegation of implementation tasks and may include consultation with specialists such as hydrologists and hydrographers.No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine water quality monitoring program requirements
  • 1.1 Consult with client to identify scope, objectives and constraints of project and intended use of the data
  • 1.2 Research and evaluate background information relevant to survey type and site
  • 1.3 Determine water quality indicators to be measured, frequency and volume of sampling required to meet scope, objectives and constraints of project
  • 1.4 Establish procedures for data collection, processing and reporting that are consistent with the scope, objectives and constraints of the program and legislative requirements
  • 1.5 Seek estimates of costs involved and sources of funds for the program
  • 1.6 Identify and assess work health and safety hazards associated with conducting the sampling program
  • 1.7 Provide a survey strategy that reflects project requirements, scope, objectives and constraints for discussion and approval
2. Undertake a site analysis
  • 2.1 Identify and record physical and biological features of the site
  • 2.2 Identify and record resource management factors contributing to water quality
  • 2.3 Survey biota, as required, to meet the scope and objectives of the program
  • 2.4 Identify and evaluate sampling points for safety, accessibility and opportunities for repeatable data collection
3. Plan monitoring program
  • 3.1 Select suitable sites for repeatable monitoring to obtain representative samples
  • 3.2 Source laboratory and field equipment for the monitoring program and determine costs
  • 3.3 Confirm suitability and availability of laboratory and field equipment
  • 3.4 Confirm surveyor access to site for the duration of the monitoring program
  • 3.5 Document work health and safety controls and emergency procedures for the program in line with organisational policies
  • 3.6 Document environmental sustainability policies and procedures and biosecurity measures
  • 3.7 Document sampling techniques to be used
  • 3.8 Document methods of data collection, monitoring and field techniques for field operators
  • 3.9 Present survey schedules and procedures to appropriate personnel and the client for approval
4. Monitor water quality
  • 4.1 Carry out water quality monitoring tasks in line with plan
  • 4.2 Transport, store and treat samples with regard to temperature, maximum holding periods and other variables
  • 4.3 Monitor surveying process for accuracy, compliance with the survey plans and procedures
  • 4.4 Implement contingency plans when problems arise, whilst continuously assessing and evaluating the plan for errors and inconsistencies
5. Evaluate program
  • 5.1 Record and save data according to plan requirements
  • 5.2 Analyse data collected according to industry policies and guidelines and scientific standards
  • 5.3 Draw outcomes, conclusions or trends from the monitoring program using industry standards for interpretation of water quality data and appropriate evidence and reasoned arguments
  • 5.4 Seek advice from client as to satisfaction with monitoring program in terms of the process and outcomes
  • 5.5 Provide report on outcomes to client with recommendations for changes and improvements for any further monitoring activities
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D7072 AHCNRM502A Develop a water quality monitoring program Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OCU00 AHCNRM510 Develop a water quality monitoring program Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BDA6 AHC51116 Diploma of Conservation and Land Management Qualification