Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers locating and repairing and rectifying faults in non-interconnected electrical circuits.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to working on basic circuit which is defined as a single circuit with a single output. A single circuit may be controlled by one or more devices and the output may control one or more devices.

Band : A 

Unit Weight : 12 

Prerequisite units 

Path 1 

MEM09002B

Interpret technical drawing

MEM10002B

Terminate and connect electrical wiring

MEM10003B

Install and test electrical wiring and circuits (up to 1000 volts a.c./1500 volts a.c.)

MEM12002B

Perform electrical/electronic measurement

MEM12023A

Perform engineering measurements

MEM18001C

Use hand tools

MEM18002B

Use power tools/hand held operations

MEM18049C

Disconnect/reconnect fixed wired equipment up to 1000 volts a.c./1500 volts d.c.

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. Locate fault

1.1. Circuit function and characteristics are determined and understood by reference to circuit diagrams, specifications, schematics and/or consultation with technical adviser.

1.2. Where appropriate, built-in fault indicators and error codes are examined and correctly interpreted, and results are recorded to standard operational procedures.

1.3. Where appropriate, circuit is correctly isolated from power supply.

1.4. Faults are verified or localised using correct and appropriate techniques, procedures, tools and test equipment.

1.5. Faults are recorded to standard operating procedures.

2. Repair/rectify fault(s)

2.1. Using correct and appropriate techniques, procedures, tools and equipment, circuit/s is repaired, replaced or adjusted to specifications or manufacturers' requirements.

2.2. Circuit/s is checked and tested using correct and appropriate techniques, procedures, tools and equipment for compliance with site or manufacturers' specifications.

2.3. Where appropriate, repair/rectification report is recorded to standard operating procedures.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• using diagnostic skills to identify correct and faulty operation
• interpreting and using circuit diagrams, specifications
• locating reading/recording built-in fault indicators
• obtaining error code interpretation documents
• isolating electrical circuits from the power supply
• tagging isolated circuits
• verifying circuit isolation
• confirming/localising circuit faults using appropriate test equipment, work techniques and tools
• recording/reporting faults in electrical circuits
• repairing/adjusting electric circuits
• confirming circuit/s against specification
• recording rectification of the circuit(s)

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• circuit characteristics
• hazards associated with the electrical circuit(s)
• relevant regulatory requirements
• errors indicated by built-in devices
• circuit isolation procedures
• common electrical test instruments and their application
• common techniques for testing electrical circuits
• recording/reporting requirements for electrical circuit faults
• appropriate techniques/procedures for returning the circuit/s to specification
• site/manufacturers' circuit specifications
• requirements for recording circuit rectifications

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 fault find and repair/rectify basic electrical circuits. 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 fault finding and repair/rectify of basic electrical circuits, 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 techniques should not require language, literacy and numeracy skills beyond those required in this unit of competency. The candidate must have access to all tools, equipment, materials and documentation required. The candidate must be permitted to refer to any relevant workplace procedures, product and manufacturing specifications, codes, 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.

Circuit 

A basic circuit is defined as a single circuit with a single output. A single circuit may be controlled by one or more devices and the output may control one or more devices

Appropriate techniques 

Testing for voltage, current, frequency, polarity, phase, circuit continuity, insulation resistance, earth continuity etc.

Test equipment 

Continuity testers, ammeters, voltmeters, multimeters, tong testers, wattmeters, cathode ray oscilloscopes, etc.

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Maintenance and diagnostics