Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to use lifting equipment such as slings, ropes, shackles, eye bolts and spreader beams.

Application of the unit 

This unit requires the individual to use basic equipment to lift loads safely.

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. Attach lifting gear to loads

1.1. All work is undertaken safely and to prescribed procedures

1.2. Load is inspected and best lifting method determined for weight and shape

1.3. Appropriate load shifting equipment  is selected

1.4. Lifting gear is inspected and damaged or worn items are labelled and rejected

1.5. Where appropriate, safe working loads are calculated to Australian Standards

1.6. Lifting gear is attached to load in a most appropriate and safe manner and to specifications where required

2. Move loads

2.1. Load moving is performed to acceptable safe working practices, Australian Standards, codes of practice and specifications

2.2. Lifting gear is connected to load mover using safe and appropriate techniques

2.3. Appropriate communication and signals  methods are used to coordinate the load movement in a safe manner

2.4. Load is grounded or put down in a safe and stable manner according to prescribed procedure

2.5. All lifting gear is detached from load mover and load

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• OHS in relation to operating machinery such as safely switching off machinery before cleaning is started
• communication of ideas and information by using appropriate signals to coordinate movement of the load
• collecting, analysing and organising information by accessing safety and procedure manuals for specific equipment
• planning and organising activities by determining the best method for lifting a load before moving it
• teamwork when working with others to ensure lifting is done in a safe manner
• mathematical ideas and techniques by calculating loads and the holding capacity of various equipment
• problem-solving skills by working out the best sequence and procedure for lifting loads of different size, weight and content
• use of technology by using the range of equipment specified

Required knowledge 

• attaching lifting gear and selecting appropriate equipment to lift loads
• references that are available to determine safety practices in lifting loads
• important considerations when lifting loads mechanically
• best method to lift the load
• types of mechanical lifting devices
• circumstances lifting devices are be used
• type of damage that can occur to any particular piece of lifting equipment
• problems that could occur if lifting gear is not attached properly
• applying correct practices to move loads
• safe practices that must be observed when moving loads
• observations when connecting the lifting gear to the load mover
• particular communication technique used for moving the load
• safe distance for personnel that are not involved in moving the load
• other technique for communication that could have been used
• the effects of a load not being grounded correctly
• storage of lifting gear after it has been detached
• information sources
• machine manuals, safety and other documentation that are relevant to this task and where are they kept
• information that is included in these documents

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 

Evidence of the ability to:

• safely lifting loads by using basic equipment such as slings, ropes, shackles, eye bolts and spreader beams
• lift TWO loads mechanically according to enterprise and statutory requirements and regulations and the listed Performance Criteria
• evidence for assessment may be gathered from assessment of the unit of competency alone or through an integrated assessment activity.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment must ensure:

• assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a combination of these. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a closely simulated workplace environment
• slings, ropes, shackles, eye bolts, spreader beams and loads.

Method of assessment 

A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:

• direct questioning combined with review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports of on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Guidance information for assessment 

Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended.

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.

Equipment range  may include:

• includes slings, ropes, shackles, eye bolts, spreader beams.

Signals  may include:

• include using hands, verbal signals and whistles. Signals may be given within sight and out of sight of equipment operators.

Legislative requirements  may include:

• work is undertaken to state/territory legislative requirements.

Unit sector 

Competency field 

Support

Co-requisite units