Unit of competency details

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 Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Identify potential hazards 

1.1 Identify hazards  in the work area before and during work.

1.2 Assess risks  for the identified hazards.

1.3 Identify controls  for these hazards.

1.4 Review effectiveness of controls within the scope of authority.

1.5 Identify and report remaining risks.

2. Follow procedures for risk control 

2.1 Select, use and maintain relevant personal protective equipment .

2.2 Develop site specific health and safety plans.

2.3 Develop induction processes.

3. Follow guidelines for working with oil 

3.1 Explain contact procedures for personnel involved in oil spill response.

3.2 Follow approved safety procedures and use personal protective equipment as specified in procedures.

3.3 Observe safety requirements when operating near volatile substances.

4. Report hazards, injuries, near misses 

4.1 Communicate reporting requirements for all incidents.

4.2 Remediate practices where appropriate following the report of any incident.

4.3 Complete appropriate forms/reports and forward to identified personnel.

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

Required Skills 

• effective communication verbal/written
• correct and appropriate use of PPE
• identification of hazards
• implementation of controls for hazardous situations
• plan development and implementation

Required Knowledge 

• identification of hazards and hazardous areas
• identification of standard controls for the hazard
• recognition of hazards common to the industry
• use of personal protective equipment
• severity of risks from materials and work processes used
• environmental impact and risks to individuals
• correct use of equipment for handling materials

Overview of assessment 

Assessors must be satisfied that the person can consistently perform the Unit as a whole as defined by the Elements, Performance Criteria, skills and knowledge.

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

• put into practice health and safety practices when working in oiled environments
• identify and manage health and safety risks associated with oil
• ensure tasks are performed in accordance with safety requirements and quality systems
• recognise potential emergency situations and communicate promptly
• understand and implement emergency provisions

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Simulation will be required for the timely assessment of this unit of competency. Simulation should be based on a potential work environment and should include the use of case studies/scenarios/what ifs and questions and answers.

Method of assessment 

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

Forms of assessment may include:

• direct observation
• responses to what if scenarios
• third party reports from supervisors
• written or oral questions
• case studies
• role play

Guidance information for assessment  

Where possible assessment should be completed holistically and may be assessed with other relevant units of competence for example but not limited to:

• HLTFA301C Apply first aid
• PUAOIL402 Apply oiled shoreline assessment strategies in an oil spill response
• PUAOIL403 Lead a team in oiled shoreline clean up

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.

Hazards  may include:

• hazardous materials
• fire or explosion
• inhalation of hydrocarbon vapour
• working in confined spaces
• skin or eye contact through handling of oil or chemicals
• prolonged exposure to heat, cold, wet, sun, wind
• slips and falls
• dangerous wildlife
• working close to water (currents, rips and eddies)
• fatigue from heavy physical work and/or long hours
• use of machinery
• people
• stress associated with causes and consequences of serious incidents

Risks  may include:

• fire and explosion hazards
• inhalation
• lack of appropriate PPE
• boats not operated by trained personnel
• machinery not operated by trained personnel
• chemicals handled inappropriately and not by trained personnel
• fatigue
• slips, trips and falls
• manual handling

Controls  may include:

• rest breaks and relief teams
• site specific health and safety plans
• operation specific health and safety plans
• clear communication and training
• first aid

Personal protective equipment  as dictated by the material safety data sheets and the work environment may include:

• overalls
• rubber boots
• eye protection
• ear protection
• gloves
• hard hat
• respirator
• communications (radio or mobile depending on area)
• insect repellent
• sunscreen

Site specific health and safety plans  may include:

• H & S responsibilities
• induction and training requirements
• health and safety monitoring
• first aid/medical support arrangements
• assessment of known hazards and risks
• management strategies for known hazards and risks