Unit of competency
Modification History
|
Release |
TP Version |
Comment |
|
1 |
AHCv1.0 |
Initial release |
Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to take a soil sample and interpret the test results.
This unit applies to individuals whose job role includes undertaking soil or growing media sampling and interpreting the results as a foundation for further horticultural operations such as nutrition programs and irrigation scheduling.
This unit applies to individuals who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Pre-requisite Unit
Nil.
Unit Sector
Soils and media (SOL)
Elements and Performance Criteria
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Element |
Performance criteria |
|
Elements describe the essential outcomes. |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
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1. Prepare for soil sampling |
1.1 Identify the soils to be surveyed, surveying activity and contractors 1.2 Select tools, equipment and machinery as required by the testing agency requirements 1.3 Carry out pre-operational and safety checks on tools, equipment and machinery 1.4 Identify areas of homogeneous soil types for sampling 1.5 Locate services in consultation with the supervisor 1.6 Identify work and safety hazards, assess risks and implement controls 1.7 Select and use suitable safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) 1.8 Maintain a clean and safe work area throughout and on completion of work |
|
2. Determine soil characteristics by performing soil sampling |
2.1 Determine the density and depth for a representative sampling of the area 2.2 Excavate holes at identified sampling sites 2.3 Collect and prepare, label, package and dispatch samples for off-site testing 2.4 Determine the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil 2.5 Clean and store sampling and testing tools and equipment 2.6 Record results |
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3. Interpret results of soil analysis |
3.1 Classify the soil types of the sample area according to standards for soil classification 3.2 Determine, from published data and records, the acceptable soil physical and chemical parameters for a specified plant 3.3 Compare collected analytical results with acceptable physical and chemical parameters for a specified plant 3.4 Evaluate soil characteristics to determine whether they can be altered to meet plant needs 3.5 Determine the Readily Available Water values for irrigation sites |
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range of Conditions
Unit Mapping Information
This unit is equivalent to AHCSOL401A Sample soils and interpret results.
Links
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=c6399549-9c62-4a5e-bf1a-524b2322cf72
