Elements and Performance Criteria

This competency applies to all operators working either independently or as part of a work team.

All operations are performed in accordance with procedures.
Procedures means all relevant workplace procedures, work instructions, temporary instructions and relevant industry and government codes and standards. These may include
original manufacturers instructions and guidelines for the use of any equipment
relevant procedures relating to safe working practices prescribed for the equipment
local OH&S legislation and/or Regulations
site specific instructions based on production requirements.

This competency includes use of equipment and tools such as
cleaning equipment
detergents and other chemicals hand and power tools
hand trolleys pallet trucks
but not more complex equipment such as forklifts, overhead cranes, or front end loaders.

Loading and unloading aids include various types of equipment other than regulated load shifting equipment and must conform to materials handling requirements, safe work practices and manual handling techniques, and workplace procedures

Typical hazards include
slips, trips and falls
manual handling injuries
dust, dirt and vapours
cuts and abrasions
lack of knowledge of machine operation

'Simple problems' means 'apply defined solutions to a narrow range of previously specified problems'.
Typical process and product problems may include
difficult access to the work area
awkward work spaces
tool failures or breakages
defective equipment
incorrect or defective materials
wrong quantities of materials

Key variables to be monitored include
atmospheric conditions (weather)
condition of the work area
placement of products or materials used in the production process
lighting
types of aids to production being used

Overview of assessment
Assessment will occur in a work like environment.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
It is essential that competence is demonstrated in the ability to
undertake basic production tasks
handle material and products
locate and transport materials and products
clean equipment, machines and work environment
document work and maintain records as required
apply workplace heath and safety policies in work operations. Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that production standards are met consistently.
Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that production standards are met consistently.

Assessment method and context
Assessors must be satisfied that the person can consistently perform the unit as a whole, as defined by the Elements, Performance Criteria and skills and knowledge. A holistic approach should be taken to the assessment.
Competence in this unit may be assessed
on an operating plant allowing for operation under all normal and a range of abnormal conditions
in a situation allowing the generation of evidence of the ability to respond to problems
by use of a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios
by a combination of these techniques.
In all cases it is expected that practical assessment will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge and theoretical assessment will be combined with appropriate practical/simulation or similar assessment. Assessors need to be aware of any cultural issues that may affect responses to questions.
Assessment processes and techniques must be culturally appropriate and appropriate to the oracy, language and literacy capacity of the assessee and the work being performed.

Specific resources for assessment
This section should be read in conjunction with the range of variables for this unit of competency. Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment that allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios and questions will also be required to the extent that they form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunchroom. No other special resources are required.
Access must be provided to appropriate learning and/or assessment support when required. Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities.