Unit of competency details

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. Plan for dispatch operations

1.1. Access, interpret and apply compliance documentation  relevant to the work activity

1.2. Receive, interpret and confirm dispatch requirements .

1.3. Inspect and test run rail dispatch systems components  to ensure they are safe and functioning.

1.4. Coordinate  issues with others involved in or affected by the operations.

1.5. Transfer to or confirm as being present the required quantity and quality of coal product in the bulk loader/bin.

1.6. Prepare documentation  and records for the dispatch operation in accordance with site/rail/port authority procedures

2. Load and dispatch coal

2.1. Confirm train identification and identify specific loading requirements and patterns.

2.2. Establish communications with the train operator and supporting plant/equipment operators prior to commencement of loading.

2.3. Access and apply safety information and procedures  throughout the operations.

2.4. Direct train movement and positioning for bulk loader.

2.5. Load train to specification.

2.6. Complete and process loading records  in accordance with site/rail authority requirements

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

Required skills 

Specific skills are required to achieve the Performance Criteria of this unit, particularly for its application in the various circumstances in which this unit may be used. This includes the ability to carry out the following, as required to conducting rail dispatch operations:

• apply legislative, organisation and site requirements and procedures for conducting rail dispatch operations
• apply operational safety requirements
• access, interpret and apply technical information
• apply communication skills (oral and written)
• use communications equipment
• calculate dispatch details
• operate loading systems
• prepare and maintain documentation and records
• comply with site/rail environmental requirements and constraints

Required knowledge 

Specific knowledge is required to achieve the Performance Criteria of this unit, particularly for its application in the various circumstances in which this unit may be used. This includes knowledge of the following, as required to conduct rail dispatch operations:

• conditions agreed with the rail authority
• site and equipment safety requirements
• coal product quality procedures
• stockpile and dispatch management systems and procedures
• coal dispatch systems components, their characteristics, functions and limitations
• freight rail operational procedures
• freight rail/customer communication systems
• rail dispatch documentation and recording systems
• coal and rail industry environmental requirements and constraints

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 

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:

• knowledge of the requirements, procedures and instructions for conducting rail dispatch operations
• implementation of requirements, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective and efficient completion of rail dispatch operations
• working with others to undertake and complete the rail dispatch operations in a way that meets all of the required outcomes
• consistent timely completion of rail dispatch operations that safely, effectively and efficiently meets the required outcomes

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

• This unit must be assessed in the context of the work environment. Where personal safety or environmental damage are limiting factors, assessment may occur in a simulated environment provided it is realistic and sufficiently rigorous to cover all aspects of workplace performance, including task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
• Assessment of this competency requires typical resources normally used in a resources and infrastructure sector environment. Selection and use of resources for particular worksites may differ due to the site circumstances.
• The assessment environment should not disadvantage the participant. For example, language, literacy and numeracy demands of assessment should not be greater than those required on the job.
• Customisation of assessment and delivery environment to sensitively accommodate cultural diversity.
• Aboriginal people and other people from a non English speaking background may have second language issues.
• Where applicable, physical resources should include equipment modified for people with disabilities. Access must be provided to appropriate learning and/or assessment support when required.

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:

• written and/or oral assessment of the candidate's required knowledge
• observed, documented and/or first hand testimonial evidence of the candidate's:

• implementation of appropriate requirement, procedures and techniques for the safe, effective and efficient achievement of required outcomes
• consistent achievement of required outcomes

• first hand testimonial evidence of the candidate's:

• working with others to undertake and complete the rail dispatch operations

Guidance information for assessment 

Consult the SkillsDMC User Guide for further information on assessment including access and equity issues.

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.

Relevant compliance documentation  may include:

• legislative, organisational and site requirements and procedures
• manufacturer's guidelines and specifications
• Australian standards
• Employment and workplace relations legislation
• Equal Employment Opportunity and Disability Discrimination legislation

Dispatch requirements  may include the:

• quantity, quality and stockpile source of coal
• train identification
• essential timings
• coordination requirements/issues

Dispatch systems components  for inspection/test run may include:

• conveyors
• feeders
• hydraulics (loaders)
• rail line
• signals
• samplers
• communications equipment

Documentation  may include:

• ticketing
• report sheets
• consignment notes
• others agreed with the rail and port/receiving authority

Safety information and procedures  may be contained in:

• legislation and regulations
• relevant Australian standards
• management plans
• OHS policy
• code of practice
• manufacturer's instructions
• safe working procedures (or equivalent)

Coordination  with others may include:

• servicing rail authority
• train operator
• discharge port samplers and plant/equipment operators such as dozers and reclaimers

Completion of records  may include the:

• placement of tickets on train
• recording of load and train details
• recording of arrival, loading and departure times