Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the competency to safely remove surface coatings by hand or chemical means in preparation for the application of new surface coatings.

Application of the unit 

Prerequisite units 

Nil

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. Prepare for surface coating removal

1.1. Materials safety data sheets and/or product application and safety information are read and used to inform work practices

1.2. OHS requirements, including ventilation requirements and personal protection needs, are observed throughout the work

1.3. Surface coating is tested to identify the type of material and methods required remove the coating

1.4. Tools, equipment and materials suitable for the removal tasks are selected and checked for safe operation/application

1.5. Accessories and consumables are identified for the removal tasks

2. Remove surface coatings

2.1. Sequence of work is identified, maximising potential of any chemical for the removal operation

2.2. Equipment, chemicals and abrasives are used within manufacturer specifications and workplace procedures

2.3. Surface coating is removed according to workplace procedures and specifications

2.4. Surfaces are inspected to ensure removal of surface coating is to workplace standard

2.5. Defects found after removal of surface coating are dealt with and/or reported in accordance with workplace procedures

3. Clean work area and maintain equipment

3.1. Item is stored and labelled ready for next process

3.2. Equipment is cleaned and inspected for serviceable condition and stored appropriately

3.3. Unserviceable equipment is tagged, faults are identified and appropriate personnel are informed

3.4. Chemicals and other materials are stored or disposed of correctly according to regulations

3.5. Work area is cleaned ready for next process or task

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• collect, organise and understand information related to hardware identification and selection, work orders, plans and safety procedures
• communicate ideas and information to enable confirmation of work requirements and specifications, coordination of work with site supervisor, other workers and customers, and the reporting of work outcomes and problems
• plan and organise activities, including the preparation and layout of the worksite and the obtaining of equipment and materials to avoid any backtracking, workflow interruptions or wastage
• work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies and using cooperative approaches to optimise workflow and productivity
• use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete measurements, calculate area and estimate material requirements
• use pre-checking and inspection techniques to anticipate removal problems, avoid reworking and avoid wastage
• use the limited workplace technology related to the selection and application, including hardware options, tools, equipment and measuring devices

Required knowledge 

• workflow in relation to the removal of surface coatings
• the types, properties and characteristics of coatings
• coating removal techniques, materials, applications and limitations
• material safety management systems

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.

Critical Aspects of Evidence 

• Interpret work order and locate relevant information
• Apply safe handling requirements for equipment, products and materials, including use of personal protective equipment
• Follow work instructions, operating procedures and inspection practices to:

• minimise the risk of injury to self or others
• prevent damage to goods, tools, equipment or products
• maintain required production output and product quality

• Remove surface coating from timber and metal surfaces, and apply appropriate techniques to remove coatings from flat, vertical, carved and curved surfaces, using a minimum of four different removal techniques and materials
• Work effectively with others
• Modify activities to cater for variations in workplace contexts

Resource Implications 

Range of surfaces to be removed, removal methods, tools, equipment and consumables.

Method of Assessment 

Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time and in a range of workplace relevant contexts.

Assessment should be by direct observation of tasks and questioning on underpinning knowledge.

Assessment should be conducted over time and may be in conjunction with assessment of other units of competency.

Context of Assessment 

Assessment may occur on the job or in a workplace simulated facility with relevant process equipment, materials, work instructions and deadlines.

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.

Unit context 

• OHS requirements include legislation, building codes, material safety management systems, hazardous substances and dangerous goods code and local safe operating procedures
• Work is carried out in accordance with legislative obligations, environmental legislation, relevant health regulations, manual handling procedures and organisation insurance requirements
• Work requires individuals to demonstrate some discretion, judgement and problem solving skills in the removal of surface coatings

Coated surfaces may include but are not limited to :

• solid timber
• manufactured board
• metal

Tools and equipment may include , but are not limited to :

• liquid containers
• brushes
• scrapers
• scrubbing brush
• steel wool
• sanding blocks
• heat guns
• high pressure water cleaners
• dipping tanks
• stainless steel stripping bench
• iron
• plane
• chisels
• power sanders
• air compressor and hoses

Materials to be used may include but are not limited to :

• caustic soda
• thinners
• turpentine
• methylated spirits
• gun wash
• gel stripper
• putties
• hot water
• glues
• abrasive paper

Personal protective equipment 

Personal protective equipment is to include that prescribed under legislation, regulations and enterprise policies and practices

Information and procedures 

• Workplace procedures relating to the use of tools and equipment
• Work instructions, including job sheets, plans, drawings and designs
• Workplace procedures relating to reporting and communication
• Manufacturer specifications and operational procedures

Unit sector 

Furniture Finishing

Competency field 

Co-requisite units