Unit of competency details

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 Set up weighbridge operations

1.1 Weighbridge systems, including equipment, computer and recording arrangements are checked for operational status

1.2 Tests to confirm accuracy of weighbridge operations and related functions are conducted in accordance with enterprise procedures, manufacturer’s instructions and relevant legislation

1.3 Accurate reporting of the results of the inspection and testing is kept in accordance with statutory requirements, enterprise policy and industry guidelines

1.4 Faults/discrepancies in weighbridge operation and Hazards are identified and action undertaken in accordance with enterprise procedures

2 Weigh loaded vehicles/bins

2.1 Bins exceeding weight limit are rejected

2.2 Weight of loaded bins\vehicles is registered against bin identification

2.3 Net weight of bins\vehicles is calculated

2.4 Bins\vehicles and cane type are recorded according to workplace recording requirements

2.5 The workplace meets housekeeping standards

3 Prepare for shift changeover

3.1 Weighbridge systems, including equipment, computer and recording arrangements are secured or made ready for the next shift

3.2 Records of operations are maintained and filed in accordance with enterprise procedures and statutory requirements

3.3 Shift changeover is carried out according to workplace procedure

3.4 Incoming weighbridge operators are aware of weighbridge and related equipment status procedures and manufacturer's recommendations

Required skills include:

Ability to: 

• confirm status of weighbridge and related equipment at start up
• select, fit and use personal protective clothing and/or equipment
• demonstrate manual and automatic modes of operation as appropriate to workplace equipment
• demonstrate load weighing procedure including confirming accuracy of weighbridge
• monitor weighbridge operation including:

• confirming correct bins are tipped
• recording bin weights
• checking the zero of the bridge or within tolerance range
• checking bin contents and fill height
• using bin delivery pushers and spotters as appropriate for equipment
• identifing faults or non-conformance in operation

• take corrective action in response to abnormal or unacceptable performance
• use appropriate communication methods and equipment
• liaise with pushers and pin-pullers as required
• report and/or record corrective action as required
• complete weighbridge operation records
• maintain work area to meet housekeeping standards

Required knowledge includes:

Knowledge of: 

• relevant state OHS legislation, standards and codes of practice relating to work responsibilities, legislation relating to cane payment as it affects requirements weighing and sampling and weights and measures legislation
• functions and basic operating principles of weighbridge and related equipment components
• cut to crush sequence
• the relationship between the weighbridge and downstream operations
• purpose and procedures for testing accuracy of weighbridge using test weights
• safe work procedures including awareness of health and safety hazards related to weighbridge operation and associated control measures
• purpose and limitations of protective clothing and equipment
• procedures for responding to emergency situations
• method to calculate net bin weight
• requirements to liaise/advise related work areas
• housekeeping standards for the work area
• reporting and recording systems

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.

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

Evidence of ability to:

• confirm status of weighbridge and related equipment at start up
• demonstrate load weighing procedure
• liaise with pushers and pin-pullers as required
• complete weighbridge operation records.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

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

• Weighbridge and related equipment
• Relevant codes of practice and industry standards
• Operating procedures and related advice on equipment operation
• Loaded cane bins
• Personal protective clothing and equipment
• Communication systems and equipment
• Housekeeping standards and procedures
• Workplace information recording systems, requirements and procedures.

Method of assessment

Other units of competency relevant to the work role should be assessed in conjunction with this unit. Where the weighbridge operator conducts yard control and/or tipping operations, the following related units are to be co-assessed with this unit.

• SUG222A Operate a tipping station
• SUG101A Move cane bins in a marshalling yard.

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.

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, licensing requirements, legislative requirements, codes of practice and industrial awards and agreements.

Codes of Practice 

Codes of practice include the Sugar Milling Operations Industry Code of Practice and sugar industry codes of practice related to cane railway and transport operations.

Workplace information 

Workplace information can include:

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• manufacturer's specifications.

Information systems 

Information systems may be print or screen based.

Weighbridge calibration 

Calibration of weighbridges is determined using test weights.

Teamwork 

Work may require the ability to work within a team environment.

Communication methods 

Communication methods may include use of two-way radios.