Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers erecting and dismantling scaffolding and equipment.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to erecting scaffolding for maintenance and installation in a workshop and in factories, manufacturing plants and warehouses. It includes preparation, erection and dismantling of the scaffolding/equipment.

An awareness of licensing and permit requirements is required.

Band : A 

Unit Weight : 4 

Prerequisite units 

Path 1 

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Prepare to erect scaffold/equipment

1.1. Site plans, scaffolding/equipment designs and drawings to industry practices are interpreted as necessary.

1.2. Work area is inspected to identify hazards and appropriate prevention/control measures are implemented to avoid hazard.

1.3. All work is undertaken safely and to prescribed procedures.

2. Erect scaffold/equipment

2.1. Erection site is prepared to meet job requirements.

2.2. Necessary signage and barriers and third party protection measures are placed in appropriate position.

2.3. Appropriate scaffolding/equipment components are selected and inspected and damaged components are labelled and rejected.

2.4. Rejected components are repaired or sent for repair.

2.5. Scaffolding/equipment is erected to plan and in accordance with safe work practices, Australian standards, State and Territory legislative requirements and equipment manufacturers' requirements.

2.6. The completed scaffolding/equipment is checked for safety and operational requirements.

2.7. Site is left clear of all surplus components, equipment, tools and debris.

3. Inspect, repair and alter scaffold/equipment

3.1. The scaffolding/equipment is inspected for damage, corrosion and wear.

3.2. Any alteration or repair is carried out in accordance with safe work practices and legislative requirements.

3.3. Any inspection log is completed as required.

4. Dismantle scaffold/equipment

4.1. Work is undertaken safely and to prescribed procedure.

4.2. Scaffolding/equipment is inspected for damage, corrosion or wear and is noted for consideration in planning for dismantling.

4.3. Scaffolding/equipment is dismantled in accordance with site procedures, State and Territory legislative requirements and critical structural and safety requirements.

4.4. Site is cleaned and cleared of all tools, excess material and debris and left in a safe state.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• reading and interpreting routine information on written job instructions, specifications and standard procedures. May include drawings for erecting scaffolding
• undertaking basic levelling and alignment
• interpreting instructions and legislative requirements
• using relevant hand tools and manual handling techniques
• assessing risk
• following oral instructions
• working safely and confidently at heights

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• erection and dismantling procedures as set out in relevant Australian standards
• codes of practice, for example the Scaffolder's Guide, relevant acts and regulations
• site specific requirements
• safety procedures, safe work practices and procedures
• use and application of personal protective equipment
• hazards and control measures associated with erecting/dismantling scaffolding and equipment, including housekeeping
• scaffolding techniques and equipment
• limitations of equipment
• materials handling, storage and environmentally friendly waste management

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 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit must be able to erect and dismantle scaffolding/equipment safely subject to legislative requirements. Competency in this unit cannot be claimed until all prerequisites have been satisfied.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently perform all elements of the unit as specified by the criteria, including required knowledge, and be capable of applying the competency in new and different situations and contexts.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

This unit may be assessed on the job, off the job or a combination of both on and off the job. Where assessment occurs off the job, that is the candidate is not in productive work, then an appropriate simulation must be used where the range of conditions reflects realistic workplace situations. The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team. The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate.

This unit could be assessed in conjunction with any other units addressing the safety, quality, communication, materials handling, recording and reporting associated with erection and dismantling of scaffolding or other units requiring the exercise of the skills and knowledge covered by this unit.

Method of assessment 

Assessors should gather a range of evidence that is valid, sufficient, current and authentic. Evidence can be gathered through a variety of ways including direct observation, supervisor's reports, project work, samples and questioning. Questioning should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required and must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, codes, specifications, standards, manuals and reference materials.

Guidance information for assessment 

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.

Scaffolding /equipment 

• Prefabricated tower scaffolds, fall protection devices, catch platforms and bracket scaffolds (tank and formwork), mobile scaffolds, gin wheels, cantilevered hoist with a load limit not exceeding 500 kilograms (material only), safety nets and static lines
• The major difference between basic and complex scaffolding is the height of the working platform and certain types of scaffolding and configurations

Hazards 

• Chemicals, dangerous or hazardous substances/materials
• Movement of equipment, goods, materials, vehicular traffic
• Uneven/unstable terrain, overhead service lines, trees, underground services, obstructions, structures, surrounding buildings, facilities, bridges/walkways, lifting equipment

Prescribed procedures 

• Clarification of instructions and/or plans either written or from authorised personnel
• Site safety policy and procedures
• Standard operating procedures
• Correct use of equipment
• Industry standards and requirements
• Manufacturers' specifications

Signage and barriers and third party protection measures 

• Physical barriers (parawebbing, bollards, timber or metal barriers)
• Warning/direction signs
• Personnel to restrict unauthorised access (spotters)
• Permits to work

Safe work practices 

Hazard identification, risk assessment, risk reduction measures, house keeping and personal protective equipment

State and Territory legislative requirements 

• Appropriate OHS and Scaffolding acts and regulations
• Australian standards, codes of practice and NOHSC:1006

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Materials handling