Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers conducting basic checks on the operational condition of vessels in or out of the water.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to checking engine or sail powered recreational vessels in both land and water environments. It relates to workplaces in which vessels are built, repaired, stored, sold and transported.

The scope of the unit is limited to identifying and reporting that a vessel is not of its 'normal' appearance at rest on its mooring or berth, or after being brought out of the water. It includes basic operational checks similar to those routinely performed by machinery or vehicle operators. It does not include an assessment of seaworthiness or durability but it does cover watertight integrity. The information would be reported to a supervisor or manager who would determine any further action.

All work and work practices are undertaken to regulatory and legislative requirements.

Operational checking of sails and sails systems is covered by Unit MEM50007B (Check operational capability of sails and sail operating equipment).

Band : E 

Unit Weight : 0 

Prerequisite units 

Path 1 

MEM50002B

Work safely on marine craft

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. Inspect hull and fittings

1.1. Hull bungs and sea cocks are inspected for security and integrity.

1.2. Hull condition is checked for holes, cracks and deterioration, and extent of marine growth.

1.3. Fittings and mountings are checked for security and excessive corrosion.

1.4. Reports of hull and fitting condition are completed on (any) approved workplace documentation and/or reported verbally.

2. Inspect safety equipment

2.1. Vessel safety equipment availability is checked against identified requirements.

2.2. Condition of safety equipment is determined and reported if required.

3. Check operating systems

3.1. Propulsion, electrical power, steering, cable and line handling and domestic systems are checked for correct fluid levels, fuel state, lubrication, and visually for mechanical condition and leaks.

3.2. Communication equipment is checked for operational status.

4. Inspect cabin and domestic systems

4.1. Cabin fittings are inspected for security and integrity.

4.2. Cabin and fittings are checked for holes, cracks and deterioration.

4.3. Fittings and mountings are checked for security and condition.

4.4. Domestic systems are operated to ensure serviceability.

4.5. Reports of cabin and fittings condition are completed on (any) approved workplace documentation and/or reported verbally.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

Look for evidence that confirms skills in:

• identifying the general condition of hulls, decks and cabins
• identifying the general condition of fittings and fixtures
• identifying the general condition of safety equipment
• checking engines and other equipment for fluid leaks
• performing visual inspections on lead/acid batteries
• providing simple checklist and verbal reports

Required knowledge 

Look for evidence that confirms knowledge of:

• general methods of determining condition of hulls, decks, cabins, fittings and fixtures and safety equipment
• methods of determining condition of engines in terms of whether they operate or not
• inspection of lead/acid batteries
• information collation methods to provide a verbal report

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 conduct basic checks on the operational condition of vessels in or out of the water to the extent of providing a simple report to a supervisor or manager. 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 associated with a marine environment, 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.

Hull and fittings 

Surface finish and general condition of the hull inside and out as well as any fittings both above and below the water line where visible

Safety equipment 

Flotation devices, communication systems including lights, flares, pumps and bailers, anchor, halyards and chains, EPIRBs, fire extinguishers, torches, lifelines

Identified  (safety equipment ) requirements 

Vessel safety equipment requirements are to be provided by the manufacturer or other authoritative source

Operating systems 

Mechanical propulsion systems, communication systems, steering systems, pumping systems, winches and cable handling equipment, ultra low voltage electrical systems operating at 12 or 24 volts d.c.

Domestic systems 

Water supply and heating, airconditioning and heating, lighting, cooking, refrigeration, sewage and sullage, entertainment systems

Unit sector 

Co-requisite units 

Competency field 

Boating services