Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit covers the competency required to move submerged objects using air-lift devices (i.e. bags).

The unit includes selecting and inspecting the bags appropriate to the lift, securing the bags to the object and inflating the bags to the required buoyancy in order to manoeuvre the object under control. Attention must be given to safety of other divers and nearby vessels and/or structures during work, as well as consideration for the environment.

Note: This Unit of Competency relates, in part, to the existing standards of the Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme (ADAS). All information was correct at the time of development of this Unit of Competency; however, any diver seeking ADAS accreditation should consult ADAS and not rely on the information contained in this unit.

Application of the Unit 

The application of this unit in the workplace - the environments, complexities and situations involved - will be written during Phase II of the Review of the PUA00 Public Safety Training Package.

This text will be useful for the purposes of job descriptions, recruitment advice or job analysis; where possible, it will not be too job specific to allow other industries to import it into other Training Packages, where feasible.

Prerequisite Unit /s 

DEFDV001B Dive using self contained underwater breathing apparatus in open water to 30 metres

DEFDV016B Perform underwater rigging work

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. Prepare for underwater air-lift operation 

1.1 Load metrics  and worksite data  are determined and analysed to determine the specific requirements for the air-lift bags

1.2 Work plan is developed consistent with the dive plan

1.3 Air-lift bags are selected , inspected and prepared 

1.4 Air-lift bags are secured safely to/from the dive site

1.5 Access obstructions and other hazards are assessed and action  is taken to remove /reduce the risk 

2. Operate air-lift devices 

2.1 Air-lift bags are secured to the object's lift point/s

2.2 A work-safe area is established and the location and safety of divers is confirmed prior to commencing the lift

2.3 Air-lift bags are inflated and adjusted to control buoyancy

2.4 Movement of the object is effectively controlled 

3. Conclude air-lift operations 

3.1 Environmental impact  arising from the work task is minimised and waste products are recovered

3.2 Air-lift bags are de-rigged from the object

3.3 Air-lift bags are de -serviced  and stored for re-use

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required Skills 

• check equipment
• control neutrally buoyant objects
• inflate air-lift bags
• inspect equipment for serviceability and functionality
• planning
• rig equipment

Required Knowledge 

• characteristics and employment of air-lift bags
• determination of mass of submerged objects
• dive equipment
• dive physics
• general occupational/diving safety awareness
• marine hazards
• oceanography
• relevant references and Australian Standards

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to attend to personal and collective safety; and to consider the environmental impact as part of the dive plan.

Consistency in performance 

Competency should be demonstrated during the following air-lift operations with manually inflated air-bags:

• 1 x vertical lift to surface
• lift distance – at least 5 metres (object must breach surface)
• depth – between 5 to 20 metres
• weight – at least 250 kg
• 1 x lateral lift
• lateral distance – at least 10 metres
• depth – between 5 to 20 metres
• weight – at least 250 kg.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Competency should be assessed in the ocean.

When practicable, assessment should relate to the diver’s vocational focus.

Specific resources for assessment 

Access to a complete range of diving, safety and accessory equipment; air-lift equipment; and submerged objects.

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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Load metrics may include 

Centre of gravity

Composition

Dimensions

Lift points

Weight

Worksite data may include 

Current

Depth

Gradient

Hazards

Obstacles

Selecting , inspecting and preparing air-lift bags may include 

Checking attachment lines and points

Inspecting the neck

Inspecting the outer skin

Test fill

Action to remove /reduce the risk may include 

Erecting signage

Using patrol/sentry craft

Effectively controlling the object's movement may include 

Both lateral and vertical adjustments

Environmental impact may include 

Contamination of surrounding water (e.g. leaking oil)

Physical damage to reef and associated floor eco-systems (e.g. coral)

Visual pollution of waste material (e.g. concrete and metal parts)

De-servicing may include 

Drying

Logging work details into equipment logs

Oiling/greasing

Washing in fresh water

Co-requisite Unit /s 

Nil