Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the process of erecting timber structures and features as a component of landscape project works and defines the standard required to: mark out the site for the structure according to design drawings and specifications; establish the levels and prepare footings where required; use a wide range of power tools efficiently and safely; fix, join or assemble timbers using a variety of recognised methods; apply a variety of surface finishes; ensure the completed structure or feature meets the quality standard in the specifications.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies workers engaged in the process of erecting timber structures and features as a component of landscape project works.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Plan and prepare work

1.1. Plans and specifications are interpreted.

1.2. The quantity and quality of materials are checked for conformation to design drawings and specifications.

1.3. Tools and equipment are selected and checked for serviceability according to industry practice.

1.4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected, used and maintained according to procedures.

1.5. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified, risks assessed, and controls are implemented.

2. Position the structure and prepare the profile and footings

2.1. Services are identified and located from site plans.

2.2. The position of the structure is marked out according to design drawings and specifications.

2.3. Profiles are established to conform to the tolerances nominated within the design drawings and specifications.

2.4. Footings are excavated and prepared according to the type of structure to be erected.

3. Prepare and cut timber components

3.1. Components are prepared for assembly to the requirements contained in the design drawings and specifications.

3.2. The length of components and the positions of cuts and joints are marked out with a pencil according to designated specifications in design drawings.

3.3. Cutting tools are selected, used and maintained according to manufactures recommendations and OHS specifications.

3.4. Components are cut, checked out and drilled accurately in preparation for joining and assembly.

4. Assemble and erect structure

4.1. Timber components are fixed, joined or assembled into position and fixed into place according to design drawings and specifications.

4.2. Remaining components are installed and fixed into position according to design drawings and specifications.

4.3. Structure is finished off to ensure all components are secure and complete.

4.4. Coatings are applied according to specifications and manufacturer's recommendations.

5. Check quality of work and clean up site

5.1. Quality of finished works is checked for compliance with design drawings and specifications.

5.2. Debris is cleaned from structure and site according to industry practice.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• measure and mark lengths of timber accurately
• fix, join or assemble timbers using a variety of recognised methods
• apply surface finishes
• use surveyors' instruments
• excavate footings
• use hand and power tools according to OHS requirements
• estimate quantities
• demonstrate safe working practices
• use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks
• use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required
• use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge 

• levelling principles and techniques
• timber properties and characteristics
• common timber joints
• timber fixing methods and product
• footings and their construction used for timber structures
• OHS requirements associated with erecting structures and features
• environmental implications associated with excavation and construction activity.

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:

• mark out the site for the structure according to design drawings and specifications
• establish the levels and prepare footings where required
• use a wide range of power tools efficiently and safely
• fix, join or assemble timbers using a variety of recognised methods
• apply a variety of surface finishes
• ensure the completed structure or feature meets the quality standard in the specifications.

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.

Structures and features may include:

• timber structures and features such as:

• fences
• pergolas
• trellises
• lattices
• gazebos
• small bridges
• handrails
• boardwalks
• steps
• decking
• sheds
• playhouses
• screens

• site furniture.

Unit sector 

Landscape

Co-requisite units 

Competency field