Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit covers the competency required to plan and conduct operational maintenance and to store weapons and associated equipment.

Application of the Unit 

This competency typically applies to a Naval Defence environment and was developed for boatswains mates but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.

This competency normally applies to an individual who is required to plan and conduct operational maintenance and to store weapons and associated equipment in a manner that maximises individual safety and the safety of others in such a way that the operational effectiveness of the unit is not impaired.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit /s 

Nil

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency.

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the Required Skills and Knowledge and/or the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Plan for weapons and associated equipment maintenance 

1.1 Maintenance task  requirements are received and confirmed with supervisor

1.2 Occupational health and safety (OH&S) requirements and recognised safety precautions are applied throughout the operation in accordance with standard procedures

1.3 Appropriate personal protective equipment is selected and worn in accordance with OH&S requirements

1.4 Maintenance manual and plan maintenance schedule are identified and obtained

1.5 Maintenance procedures  are interpreted and followed

2. Assess weapons and associated equipment serviceability 

2.1 Weapons and associated equipment  are checked safe in accordance with applicable operational procedures

2.2 Weapons and associated equipment are disassembled in accordance with applicable maintenance procedures

2.3 Serviceability  of weapons and associated equipment is assessed in accordance with applicable maintenance manual and directives

2.4 Defects  are identified in accordance with applicable maintenance manual and directives

2.5 Weapons and associated equipment assessed unserviceable beyond operational repair facilities are prepared for return in accordance with the applicable maintenance manual and directives

2.6 Applicable test equipment and tools are selected and checked for serviceability

2.7 Weapons and associated equipment are secured in accordance with applicable legal and organisational requirements

3. Record maintenance 

3.1 Defect reports are raised and forwarded to the appropriate authority in accordance with organisational requirements

3.2 Maintenance is recorded using relevant documentation in accordance with organisational requirements

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills 

• follow instructions and report information verbally and in writing
• interpret maintenance system, publications and documentation
• promptly and appropriately respond to emergencies
• use correct test and maintenance equipment
• use a variety of verbal and non-verbal communication techniques
• use active listening skills in communication with colleagues and personnel
• use appropriate cleaning and preservation chemicals

Required Knowledge 

• appropriate actions to prevent injury to self and others
• legal and Defence weapon stowage requirements
• maintenance system, publications and documentation
• OH&S procedures specific to weapons
• range of equipment used in weapons and associated equipment maintenance
• team work
• weapon terminology

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

• maximise individual safety and the safety of others in such a way that the operational effectiveness of the unit is not impaired.

Consistency in performance 

Competency should be demonstrated over time and across a range of simulated or actual workplace situations.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Competency should be assessed in an actual workplace or in a simulated environment.

Specific resources for assessment 

Access is required to:

• suitable maintenance facility
• weapons and equipment identified in the Range Statement.

Method of assessment 

In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.

Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.

Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:

• direct observation
• interviewing the candidate
• journals and workplace documentation
• third party reports from supervisors
• written or oral questions.

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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Maintenance tasks may include 

Checking for wear and damage

Checking weapon arcs

Cleaning

Function tests

Periodic maintenance

Maintenance procedures may include 

Defence instructions

Manufacturers' instructions

Weapons and associated equipment may include 

Automatics

Explosive power tools

Hand restraints

Line throwing devices

Night fighting equipment

Pistols

Semi automatics

Shot guns

Tactical batons

Serviceability may include 

Checking for wear and damage

Checking tolerances

Checking weapon arcs

Function tests

Defects may include 

Barrel wear

Corrosion

Cracks

Excessive carbon deposits

Excessive wear

Out of alignment

Physical damage

Warping