Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the competency to research and evaluate the full range of materials and equipment used in furnishing, and to select that most appropriate for each particular specified application, taking into account the availability of and access to production equipment.

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 production requirements

1.1. Requirements for production activities are identified, including:

1.2. types of products produced and related materials and equipment

1.3. quantities of products in order, in store, in production

1.4. storage and handling requirements

1.5. stock management methods

1.6. A rating system is developed to facilitate comparisons of cost/benefits and other qualitative properties of equipment and systems

2. Gather data and specifications

2.1. Current best practice and future trends for manufacturing the products are assessed to establish comparisons and benchmarks

2.2. Steps required for production processes are identified and flow charts produced, where necessary

2.3. Specifications are identified to match the production process

2.4. Consultations are conducted with relevant employees and management to identify additional or altered specifications

2.5. Materials, tooling, and/or equipment requirements for the production are identified and documented

2.6. Existing equipment and stock on hand is evaluated to match requirements of the proposed operations

2.7. OHS requirements to provide safe work systems for the equipment and materials are identified, including:

2.7.1. associated training requirements

2.7.2. work practices

2.7.3. equipment

2.8. Appropriate data is compiled

3. Evaluate equipment and materials against requirements

3.1. Materials are assessed for required quality, finish, durability and conformity to standards

3.2. Equipment options are identified

3.3. Equipment and materials are selected based on comparisons of performance, cost and specifications compared to the prepared rating system

4. Prepare report and recommendations

4.1. Recommendations are developed to meet requirements of the workplace

4.2. Report of recommendations is prepared and forwarded according to workplace procedures

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required skills 

• research, collect, organise and understand information related to production materials and equipment, including the relevant technical, regulatory, cultural, environmental and safety requirements
• communicate ideas and information to enable clarification of the requirements, coordination of work with managers/supervisors, workers and customers, the coordinated evaluation of options and the reporting of outcomes
• plan and organise activities, including the systematic identification, research and evaluation of options
• 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 model the options and statistically compare results and potentials
• create and apply systematic problem solving techniques which will avoid re-working and wastage
• use the full scope of available workplace technology related to production materials and equipment and to their analysis and evaluation

Required knowledge 

• industry sector developments and trends in terms of materials and equipment
• company business policies and plans, including future production systems and products
• company products, market, work systems and equipment
• legislative requirements of the work activities

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 

• Locate, interpret and apply relevant information
• Apply safety requirements throughout the work sequence, including the use of personal protective clothing and equipment
• Lead others and work effectively to improve production quality and outcomes
• Evaluate materials, equipment and work processes considering:

• product innovations and potential
• nature of products produced and the associated markets for the products
• workforce availability and capabilities
• equipment capabilities and availabilities
• cost benefit analysis (or equivalent)

• Identify the impact of decisions in terms of commercial, environmental and safety risks
• Encourage participation of employees in the planning of work activities and changes

Resource implications 

Access to production plans, process machinery, equipment, materials and a work area.

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/or samples 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 scope 

• This unit covers the work involved in evaluating and selecting the materials and equipment required in the production process
• The unit applies to those with responsibility for resource coordination and leadership of others individually and in teams

Unit context 

• OHS requirements include legislation, building codes, material safety management systems, hazardous substances and dangerous goods codes and safe operating procedures
• Work is carried out in accordance with legislative obligations, environmental legislation, relevant health regulations, authorised handling procedures and organisation insurance requirements
• Work requires individuals to demonstrate conceptual and analytical ability, discretion, judgement and problem solving skills

Workplace environment 

• The function is undertaken in accordance with established enterprise procedures and practices may include requirements recommended by manufacturers
• Customers or suppliers may be internal or external

Machines /equipment may include :

• any machine typically used in the furnishing industry
• microprocessor or computer-controlled machines
• both production and facility equipment used in the enterprise

Personal protective equipment 

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

Information and procedures 

• Trade journals and publications
• Work procedures/instructions
• Manufacturer specifications and instructions
• Standard forms of workplace process and procedure
• Organisation work specifications and requirements
• Legislation, regulations and codes of practice
• Quality and Australian standards and procedures

Unit sector 

Furnishing Technology

Competency field 

Co-requisite units