Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate a computer-based interface to modify and/or interrogate a control system.

Application of the unit 

This unit typically targets skills required by a production worker to operate equipment using process control interface.

Work may require the ability to work within a team environment

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Navigate the process control interface

1.1. The readiness of the control interface and related components for operation are confirmed

1.2. Hardware provided is used to operate the interface

1.3. Page links are used to move between screens

1.4. Messages and alarms are acknowledged

1.5. Required information is accessed from screen displays

1.6. Interface system malfunctions are recorded and reported in accordance with workplace procedures

2. Use interface system to operate and maintain a process within required parameters

2.1. Individual items of equipment and/or processes are started, monitored and shutdown using the control interface

2.2. Equipment is selected, status altered and settings entered to meet operating requirements

2.3. Sequences are activated to initiate process operation

2.4. Equipment giving a bad signal or bad measurements is recognised and responsive action taken

3. Analyse data to predict and control performance

3.1. Trends are selected and analysed to identify performance patterns

3.2. Causes of abnormal or unacceptable performance are identified and corrective action taken

3.3. Information is recorded as required

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

Ability to :

• use all hardware components to operate the control interface
• navigate the system to locate and use information required, including moving between screens and locating relevant performance data
• operate the control system using the interface, including start up and shut down equipment components and change set points as required
• locate sensors and instrumentation providing input signals to the control system and confirm operating order within level of responsibility
• recognise and respond to error messages and alarms as required
• access relevant performance data using the control system, including locating and interpreting performance trend information
• record log information using the interface system according to enterprise procedures
• 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
• work cooperatively within a culturally diverse workforce

Required knowledge 

Knowledge of :

• processes and equipment being controlled, including required processing sequences
• operating principles of process control and interface system, including the relationship between control panels, systems and the physical equipment, and where relevant understanding of the operating conditions required for accurate information input from sensors and related instrumentation
• action required to respond to error messages and alarms
• typical faults that can occur when operating a process control interface and corrective action required
• performance data collected by the control interface system and its application to troubleshoot performance, including the ability to identify and investigate related trend data to track cause and effect
• recording requirements and responsibilities

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 

Assessment must be carried out in a manner that recognises the cultural and literacy requirements of the assessee and is appropriate to the work performed. Competence in this unit must be achieved in accordance with food safety standards and regulations.

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

Evidence of ability to:

• operate and navigate interface to access, retrieve, enter and store work data
• start, operate, monitor and shut down process equipment
• control and adjust equipment using control interface to achieve production requirements
• recognise faults and inconsistencies and take corrective action
• complete workplace records as required
• apply safe work practices and identify OHS hazards and controls.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must occur in a real or simulated workplace where the assessee has access to:

• process control interface hardware and software
• work station or equipment to be controlled
• operating procedures and related advice on equipment operation
• process to be controlled
• communication systems and equipment
• workplace information recording systems, requirements and procedures.

Method of assessment 

This unit should be assessed together with other core units or other units of competency relevant to the work role. This includes the relevant operational units for the process being controlled.

Guidance information for assessment 

To ensure consistency in one's performance, competency should be demonstrated on more than one occasion over a period of time in order to cover a variety of circumstances, cases and responsibilities, and where possible, over a number of assessment activities.

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. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Policies and procedures 

Work is carried out in accordance with company policies and procedures, manufacturers' recommendations, legislative requirements, codes of practice and industrial awards and agreements

Workplace information 

Workplace information may include:

• standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• manufacturers' specifications

Information accessed 

Information accessed may include:

• graphics, trends
• parameter settings
• alarms
• individual plant item status

Computer-based interface 

A computer-based interface may consist of:

• computer processor
• monitor
• keyboards
• track ball
• mouse
• storage devices
• printers

(It is linked to the process control system)

Unit sector 

Operational

Competency field 

Co-requisite units