Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the process of removing tree stumps from the ground with the aid of motorised stump grinders and defines the standard required to: conduct pre-operational and safety checks on machinery and equipment; perform hazard identification and risk control procedures; inspect the work area to determine method of removal using the risk controls; select and safely use a range of stump removal machinery and equipment; perform operational maintenance on stump removal machinery and equipment.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to the mechanical removal of tree stumps using a stump grinding machine.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Prepare for stump removal operations

1.1. Site location and details regarding the removal of stumps is collected and interpreted.

1.2. All underground services are located according to supply authorities' guidelines.

1.3. Tools and equipment are selected according to supervisor's instructions and manufacturer's guidelines.

1.4. Site and work zone hazards are identified and recorded, risk level established, and controls checked against the safety plan or safe work method statement.

1.5. Suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected, used and maintained such as safety glasses for eye protection.

2. Undertake removal operations

2.1. Pre-operational and safety checks are carried out on stump removing tools and equipment, according to documented guidelines.

2.2. Tools and equipment appropriate to the task being undertaken are used according to documented Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements and to manufacturer's specifications.

2.3. Stump is removed to agreed depth and spread without damage to underground services and surrounding areas.

2.4. Stump hole is back-filled and consolidated to original ground level according to enterprise policy.

3. Complete stump removal operation

3.1. Waste material is collected and disposed of and/or recycled in a manner that causes minimal damage to the environment.

3.2. Tools and equipment are cleaned, maintained and stored according to manufacturer's specifications and enterprise guidelines.

3.3. A clean and safe work area is maintained throughout and upon completion of work according to enterprise Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

3.4. Relevant records are maintained according to enterprise guidelines.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• conduct pre-operational and safety checks on machinery and equipment
• perform hazard identification and risk control procedures
• inspect the work area to determine method of removal using the risk controls
• select and safely use a range of stump removal machinery and equipment
• perform operational maintenance on stump removal machinery and equipment
• use literacy skills to follow sequenced written instructions and record information accurately and legibly
• use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation including questioning, active listening, asking for clarification and seeking advice from supervisor
• use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures
• use interpersonal skills to relate to people from a range of social, cultural and ethnic backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge 

• manufacturer guidelines for operating stump grinding machinery
• environmental implications of removal activities including run off, drainage, salinity and soil erosion, and soil disturbance
• removal practices associated with different soil types
• the effect of adverse outdoor climatic conditions.

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.

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 workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

• transport stump removal equipment to and from a work site
• safety glasses must be worn as well as other appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
• inspect a job to determine appropriate removal techniques
• select and safely use a range of stump removal machinery and equipment
• perform operational maintenance on stump removal machinery and equipment.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Trees may include:

• all species of trees and woody tree like vegetation forms.

Machinery may include:

• all machinery and equipment used in commercial stump removal.

Unit sector 

Arboriculture

Co-requisite units 

Competency field