Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the competency required to select timbers for use in production by applying knowledge of timber technology

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. Determine timber requirement

1.1. Workplace health and safety requirements, including personal protection needs, are observed throughout the work

1.2. Structural requirements for timbers are determined from workplace documentation

1.3. Timber is assessed for suitability in accordance with selection criteria

1.4. Written report is prepared substantiating selection of timber

2. Evaluate timber selected

2.1. Other materials which may be incorporated into furnishing item are identified and compatibility factors to be considered are recorded for inclusion in production plans

2.2. Moisture content of timber selected is determined to ensure compliance with production requirements

2.3. Density and working properties of timber are determined to ensure compliance with production requirements

2.4. Any faults or features in the timber are identified and strategies are suggested to overcome/minimise their effects

2.5. Recommendations on any changes to appropriate finishes and adhesives are recorded for inclusion in production plans

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• collect, organise and understand information related to work orders, drawings, plans and safety procedures
• communicate ideas and information related to selection of timbers 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 wastage
• work with others and in a team by recognising dependencies and using cooperative approaches
• use mathematical ideas and techniques to correctly complete measurements, calculate quantities, measure timber moisture content and estimate material requirements
• use pre-checking and inspection techniques to anticipate problems
• use workplace technology related to the selection of timbers, including tools, equipment, calculators and measuring devices

Required knowledge 

• characteristics and uses of a range of available indigenous and overseas timber
• commonly used complementary materials and their compatibility when used in conjunction with others
• impact of climate change and workshop conditions on timbers
• timber seasoning methods, techniques and faults
• solid timber conversion techniques

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 and apply 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:

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

• From a range of ten common furniture species samples, identify the species correctly, match it to a specified application and justify the choice
• Correctly identify natural and seasoning faults in selected timbers
• Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content in a minimum of three samples, including one hard and one soft timber
• Work effectively with others
• Modify activities to cater for variations in workplace contexts and environment

Resource Implications 

Timber, moisture content measuring devices.

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, where appropriate, 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 equipment and tools, 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.

Furnishing items include :

• solid timber furniture
• upholstered furniture and occasional items

Unit context 

• Work involves the selection of appropriate timbers for use in the production of furniture items
• OH&S requirements include legislation, building codes, material safety management systems, hazardous substances and dangerous goods codes and local safe operating procedures or equivalent
• Work is carried out in accordance with legislative obligations, environmental legislation, relevant health regulations, manual handling procedures and organisation insurance requirements

Timbers may include :

• indigenous and overseas timbers

Selection criteria may include :

• aesthetic appeal
• shape
• volumes required and characteristics

Working properties may include :

• hardness
• strength and brittleness

Personal protective equipment 

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

Information and procedures 

• Workplace procedures relating to the use and operation of tools and equipment
• Workplace instructions, including job sheets, plans, prototypes, drawings and designs
• Workplace procedures relating to reporting and communications
• Manufacturers' instructions for the use of equipment and materials

Unit sector 

Furniture Making

Competency field 

Co-requisite units