Modification History
Not applicable.
Unit Descriptor
This unit covers conducting searches in underground metalliferous mines. It includes: planning for the search; conducting the search; managing unplanned events or changed in circumstances; and finalise search.
Application of the Unit
This unit is appropriate for those working in operational roles, in underground mines, within:
- Metalliferous mining
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Refer to Unit Descriptor.
Pre-Requisites
Not applicable.
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
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. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Plan underground search |
1.1. Access, interpret and apply compliance documentation relevant to conducting searches in underground metalliferous mines 1.2. Receive and analyse information and clarify factors to be considered in the search plan 1.3. Identify, liaise and clarify roles with relevant external agencies which may be called upon to assist with the search 1.4. Develop a workable search plan and contingency plans in consultation with external agencies and mine operational personnel 1.5. Identify and access equipment required for the search operation 1.6. Select personal protective equipment appropriate for search activities 1.7. Document search strategy and plot search patterns and routes on mine plan |
2. Conduct search |
2.1. Define possible and probable search areas based on mine configuration and personal/work factors 2.2. Conduct risk assessment to identify the risks to the search party, and identify the necessary controls according to site procedures and legislative requirements 2.3. Make sure search period/area does not exceed air/oxygen working duration and search personnel fitness 2.4. Establish and maintain communications procedures and protocols 2.5. Conduct search methodically using appropriate, recommended pattern and techniques 2.6. Manoeuvre hostile ground using standard equipment, techniques and procedures 2.7. Maintain physical contact with other search team members at all times during the search 2.8. Mark route to allow safe egress from mine or allow location of search team by back-up team if necessary |
3. Manage unplanned event or change in circumstances |
3.1. Evaluate the unplanned event and changes in circumstances 3.2. Identify, implement and monitor procedures to deal with the event 3.3. Communicate details of the event or changes in circumstances to Incident Control for advice on actions to be taken 3.4. Communicate requests for further assistance or advice of withdrawal |
4. Finalise search |
4.1. Negotiate the conclusion of the search in consultation with external agencies and mine operational personnel 4.2. Collect and preserve all relevant information 4.3. Debrief with relevant personnel 4.4. Complete all required reports 4.5. Review search operation and recommend improvements |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit. |
Required skills |
Specific skills are required to achieve the performance criteria in this unit, particularly for the application in the various circumstances in which this unit may be applied. This includes the ability to carry out the following as required to conduct searches in underground metalliferous mines:
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Required knowledge |
Specific knowledge is required to achieve the Performance Criteria of this unit, particularly its application in a variety of circumstances in which the unit may be used. This includes knowledge of the following, as required to conduct searches in underground metalliferous mines:
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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. |
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Overview of assessment |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to worksite operations and satisfy all of the requirements of the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge and the range statement of this unit and include evidence of the following:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
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Method of assessment |
This unit may be assessed in a holistic way with other units of competency. The assessment strategy for this unit must verify required knowledge and skill and practical application using more than one of the following assessment methods:
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Guidance information for assessment |
Consult the SkillsDMC User Guide for further information on assessment including access and equity issues. |
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. |
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Relevant compliance documentation may include: |
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Factors to be considered may include: |
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External agencies may include: |
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Equipment may include: |
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Communications may include: |
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Search techniques may include: |
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Physical contact may include: |
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Route marking may include: |
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Unplanned event or change in circumstances may include: |
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Incident Control : |
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Conclusion of search may include: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Emergency Response and Rescue
Competency field
Refer to Unit Sector(s).
Co-requisite units
Not applicable.