Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit specifies the outcomes required to operate a vehicle loading crane with a capacity of 10 metre tonnes or more, mounted on a vehicle for the principle purpose of loading and unloading such a vehicle, including the application of load estimation and slinging techniques to move a load, for licensing purposes.

Application of the Unit 

This unit requires the operator to plan the work, conduct routine checks, set up crane, transfer loads and shut down and secure crane.

This unit is based on the requirements of the National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work.

This unit in its current form meets state and territory licensing requirements. Any alteration will result in a unit which is not acceptable to regulators for the purpose of licensing.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

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 work

1.1 Potential workplace hazards  are identified

1.2 Hazard control measures  are identified consistent with appropriate standards  to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment

1.3 The weight of the load is identified and estimated in consultation with associated personnel  (where applicable)

1.4 Suitable lifting points on the load are identified in consultation with associated personnel 

1.5 Appropriate lifting equipment  is obtained following consultation with associated personnel 

1.6 Crane  is appropriate  to the load/s and workplace conditions

1.7 Appropriate paths for the movement of loads in the work area are inspected and determined

1.8 Appropriate communication methods  are identified with associated personnel 

2. Conduct routine checks

2.1 Crane  is visually checked for any damage or defects

2.2 All signage and labels  are visible and legible according to the appropriate standard .

2.3 Routine pre-operational crane checks are carried out according to procedures 

2.4 All controls  are located and identified

2.5 Crane service logbook  is checked for compliance

2.6 Crane  is started according to procedures  and checked for any abnormal noises

2.7 All crane safety devices  are tested according to procedures 

2.8 Post-start operational checks are carried out according to procedures 

2.9 All communication equipment  is checked for serviceability

2.10 All damage and defects are reported and recorded according to procedures , and appropriate action is taken

3. Set up crane

3.1 Ground suitability  is checked

3.2 Crane  is driven to the work area according to procedures 

3.3 Crane  is positioned for work application and stability  according to procedures 

3.4 Boom/jib and configuration data is input into the crane computer (as required)

3.5 Appropriate hazard prevention /control measures  are applied to the work area according to procedures 

3.6 All communications equipment  is tested for functionality

3.7 Lifting equipment  is prepared for load according to procedures 

3.8 Load destination  is prepared

4. Transfer loads

4.1 Loads are determined within the capacity of the crane

4.2 Boom/jib and hoist block is positioned over load following directions from associated personnel 

4.3 Lifting equipment  is attached and secured using defined techniques  according to procedures 

4.4 Test lift  is carried out according to procedures 

4.5 Loads are transferred using all relevant crane movements  according to procedures  and the appropriate standard 

4.6 All required communication signals  are correctly interpreted according to procedures  and the appropriate standard 

4.7 The load is landed ensuring stability and security from movement

4.8 Lifting equipment  is removed or disconnected from load and/or lifting hook according to procedures  (where applicable)

4.9 Crane  is operated according to procedures 

4.10 Load movement is monitored constantly ensuring safety to personnel and load, and crane stability

4.11 Unplanned and /or unsafe  situations are responded to in line with procedures 

5. Shut down and secure crane

5.1 Crane  boom/jib and equipment are stowed and secured according to procedures  and the appropriate standard 

5.2 Relevant motion locks and brakes are applied (where applicable)

5.3 Outriggers/stabilisers are stowed and secured according to procedures 

5.4 Plates or packing are stowed and secured.

5.5 Crane  is shut down  according to procedures 

5.6 Routine post-operational crane checks are carried out according to procedures 

5.7 Lifting equipment  is stored according to procedures  and the appropriate standards 

5.8 All damage and defects are reported and recorded according to procedures , and appropriate action is taken

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills :

• Accurately record and maintain information relating to crane operations
• Use communication techniques in the workplace including hand signals, whistles and two-way radios
• Use interpersonal communication skills at a level sufficient to communicate with other site personnel
• Operate crane including all functions to their maximum extension in the loading and unloading of loads to the safe working rated capacity of the crane, in conjunction with other associated personnel
• Use of lifting equipment and basic slinging techniques suitable for the loads to be loaded/unloaded as defined by workplace procedures
• Apply risk assessment and hazard control strategies, including hierarchy of control as applied to the positioning and safe operation of the vehicle loading crane (particular awareness of the risks associated with overhead powerlines/electrical cables, ground conditions and vehicle tipping)
• Use and interpret crane manufacturer's specifications and data, including load charts to enable the vehicle loading crane to be configured for the load
• Verify problems and equipment faults and demonstrate appropriate response procedures

Required knowledge :

• Appropriate mathematical procedures for estimation of loads
• Assessment of ground conditions to confirm that the site is suitable (e.g. firm, level and safe) to operate the crane
• Awareness of the boom/jib movements and particularly the safe positioning of the operator for any lift
• Commonwealth, state or territory OH&S legislation, standards and codes of practice relevant to the full range of processes for the crane class
• Use of lifting equipment and basic slinging techniques suitable for the loads to be loaded/unloaded as defined by workplace procedures
• Understanding of the hierarchy of hazard identification and control
• Level of literacy to be able to read and comprehend manufacturer's instructions, procedures and safety signs
• Organisational and workplace standards, requirements, policies and procedures for conducting operations for the crane class
• Procedures for the recording, reporting and maintenance of workplace records and information
• Typical routine problems encountered in the process and with equipment and adjustments required for correction
• Crane characteristics and capabilities to allow the configuration of the crane to suit the range of loads

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 the Training Package .

Overview of assessment 

• Successful assessment of this unit meets the competency requirement of the National Standard for Licensing Persons Performing High Risk Work.
• State/territory OH&S regulators have mandated the use of Assessment Instruments and Instructions for Assessment for this unit which have been endorsed by the national body responsible for OH&S matters.

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

• Compliance with OH&S licensing legislation.
• Communicate and work safely with others in the work area.
• Assessment of ground conditions to confirm that the site is suitable (e.g. firm, level and safe) to operate the vehicle loading crane.
• Risk assessment and hazard control strategies, including hierarchy of control as applied to the positioning and safe operation of the vehicle loading crane (particular awareness of the risks associated with overhead powerlines/electrical cables, ground conditions, wind, pedestrians and tipping).
• Set up, position stabilise and operate a vehicle loading crane including all functions to their maximum extension in the loading and unloading of loads to the safe working rated capacity.
• Move loads from the vehicle to the ground and/or ground to the vehicle as described in the endorsed assessment tool.
• Appropriate mathematical procedures for estimation of loads.
• Use of lifting equipment and basic slinging techniques suitable for the loads to be loaded/unloaded as defined in the workplace procedures.
• Awareness of the boom/jib movements and particularly the safe positioning of the operator for any lift.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

• Assessment of the safe and effective application of knowledge and skill to workplace tasks (performance) must be undertaken using the endorsed Assessment Instrument.
• Assessment of performance must be undertaken either in the workplace or in a realistically simulated workplace setting.
• Assessors must ensure that the assessment in the workplace is organised to ensure that all the required equipment and materials and a suitable working area is made available to suit the assessment and the workplace.
• Assessment must occur under standard and authorised work practices, safety requirements and environmental constraints.
• Assessment is to comply with appropriate standard requirements.
• Applicants must have access to:

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for the purpose of the Performance Assessment
• appropriate vehicle loading crane (10 metre tonne or more) and associated equipment in safe condition
• appropriate lifting gear in safe condition
• Suitable loads as specified by the endorsed Assessment Instrument
• communication equipment (e.g. two-way radios, whistles, etc.)
• other associated personnel to sling and direct the loads.

Method of assessment 

• Assessment must be conducted using the endorsed Assessment Instruments. These Instruments provide advice on their application.
• The use of 'simulators'  in the assessment of this unit of competency is not acceptable .
• Assessment may be in conjunction with the assessment of other units of competency.
• Assessment methods must confirm consistency and accuracy of performance together with application of underpinning knowledge.
• Assessment must confirm a reasonable inference that competency is not only able to be satisfied under the particular circumstance, but is able to be transferred to other circumstances.

Guidance information for assessment 

• Further information about endorsed Assessment Instruments may be obtained from state/territory OH&S regulators.

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 .

Hazards 

May include but not limited to:

• ground stability (e.g. ground condition, recently filled trenches, slopes)
• overhead hazards (e.g. powerlines, service pipes)
• traffic (e.g. pedestrians, vehicles, other plant)
• Insufficient lighting
• environmental conditions (e.g. wind, lightning, storms, etc.)
• positioning of crane operator
• other specific hazards (e.g. dangerous materials)

Hazard control measures 

Refers to the systematic process of eliminating or reducing the risk to personnel and property through the application of controls

It includes the application of the hierarchy of control, the six-step preference of control measures to manage and control risk:

1 elimination

2 substitution

3 isolation

4 engineering control measures

5 using safe work practices

6 personal protective equipment

Appropriate standards 

May include but not limited to:

• codes of practice
• legislation
• Australian standards especially AS2550.1 - 2002 (6.5)
• manufacturer's specifications
• industry standards

Associated personnel 

May include but not limited to:

• doggers
• riggers

Lifting equipment 

May include but not be limited to:

• chain slings
• wire and synthetic slings
• shackles
• eyebolts

Crane 

A crane with a capacity of 10 metre tonnes and above mounted on a vehicle for the principle purpose of loading and unloading such a vehicle

Appropriate 

May include but not limited to:

• crane capabilities
• environmental conditions (e.g. wind, lightning, storms, etc.)

Communication method 

May include but not limited to:

• verbal and non-verbal language
• written instructions
• signage
• hand signals
• listening
• questioning to confirm understanding
• appropriate worksite protocol

Signage and labels 

May include but not limited to:

• crane data plates/labels
• load charts
• crane decals
• control labels

Procedures 

May include but not limited to:

• manufacturer's guidelines (instructions, specifications or checklists)
• industry operating procedures
• workplace procedures (work instructions, operating procedures, checklists)

Controls 

May include but not limited to:

• luffing levers
• knuckling levers
• hoisting and lowering levers
• slewing levers including brake
• boom extension levers (where fitted)

Service logbook 

May include but not limited to:

• any logbook
• service book
• history record system where the service and maintenance history is kept

Crane safety devices 

May include but not limited to:

• horns/sirens
• audible and visual warning devices
• lights

Communication equipment 

May include but not limited to:

• fixed frequency two-way radios
• whistles

Ground suitability 

May include but not limited to:

• rough uneven ground
• backfilled ground
• soft soils
• hard compacted soil
• rock
• bitumen
• concrete

Stability 

May include but not limited to:

• deploying outriggers
• establishing correct size plates or packing
• correctly positioning plates or packing

Hazard prevention /control measures 

May include but not limited to:

• safety tags on electrical switches/isolators
• insulated powerlines
• safety observer used inside exclusion zone
• disconnected power
• traffic barricades and controls
• pedestrian controls
• trench covers
• movement of obstructions
• personal protective equipment
• adequate illumination

Load destination 

May include but not limited to:

• ground
• vehicles

Defined techniques 

May include but not limited to:

• fixed lifting points
• basic reeved slings

Test lift 

The load is lifted just clear of the lifting plane to allow for checks to be safely made in consultation with associated personnel to ensure that:

• near capacity loads do not overload the crane
• loads of unusual shape or weight distribution are correctly slung
• load measuring equipment can be used to verify the calculated weight of the load
• all equipment is functioning properly
• adjustments to the slinging can be made in a safe manner

Relevant crane movements 

May include but not limited to:

• luffing
• slewing
• knuckling
• telescoping
• raise and lower hoist

Communication signals 

May include but not limited to:

• stop - hand
• stop - whistle
• hoist up - hand
• hoist up - whistle
• hoist down - hand
• hoist down - whistle
• luff boom down - hand
• luff boom down - whistle
• luff boom up - hand
• luff boom up - whistle
• telescope out - hand
• telescope out - whistle
• telescope in - hand
• telescope in - whistle

Unplanned and /or unsafe situations 

May include but not limited to:

• failure/loss of control (e.g. brakes and steering)
• failure of equipment (e.g. hydraulic system)
• environmental conditions (e.g. wind, lightning, storms, etc.)

Shut down 

May include but not limited to:

• retracting boom/jib (where applicable)
• retracting hoist rope and hook block
• folding boom/jib into the transport position
• retracting outriggers/stabilisers
• idling engine to stabilise temperature
• turning off engine (where applicable)
• removing key from ignition (where applicable)
• locking and securing cabin (where applicable)
• securing crane for travel