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.

1

Prepare for wash 

1.1

Type of continuous batch washer  and operational requirements are correctly identified

1.2

Production schedule and work load priorities are determined

1.3

Safety features of equipment and safety practices are identified and applied at all times

1.4

Equipment start up checks are conducted according to operating procedure

1.5

Functions of associated equipment segments (press, shuttle, dryers and conveyors) are identified

2

Operate continuous batch washer 

2.1

Machine is started-up correctly, and operator instructions are followed

2.2

Conveyor is loaded and weigh scale interpreted

2.3

Correct weight is achieved, according to product classification and machine manufacturers' specification and OHS practices 

2.4

Washing operations are started according to operational requirements

2.5

Loading, unloading and transfer of laundry is conducted according to operational procedure using manual handling techniques, where automatic systems are not in place

3

Monitor washing 

3.1

Tunnel washer operation is monitored to ensure correct operation

3.2

All associated computerised equipment and systems are monitored to ensure all processes are functioning accurately

3.3

Operational faults  identified by computer equipment are interpreted and addressed, documented and reported according to organisational procedure

4

Finalise washing 

4.1

Final load is removed and completion of work load is confirmed

4.2

Washer is shut down correctly

4.3

Shut down maintenance  is completed according to operating procedure and OHS practices – clean lint bags, collect linen dropped off

4.4

Work area is cleaned and all housekeeping requirements met

4.5

Records are completed

This section describes essential skills and knowledge and their level

Required skills include: 

Demonstrates skills to:

• classify wash load correctly weigh appropriately and select appropriate washing conditions and programs
• ensure wash loads and associated chemicals meet requirement for continuous loading
• use machines and related equipment, including dispensing and dosing systems
• prepare and monitor chemicals safely
• classify and sort product
• maintain quality requirements for each stage of the process
• determine and maintain optimum Dip levels
• safely remove wet washing from continuous conveyor
• shut down washer
• interpret computer fault readings and address common operational problems
• read, interpret, and follow information on work specifications, standard operating procedures and work instructions, and other reference material
• maintain accurate records
• communicate within the workplace
• sequence operations
• meet specifications
• clarify and check task-related information
• carry out work according to OHS practices

Required knowledge includes: 

Demonstrates knowledge of:

• mechanical function and key features of continuous batch washing machines
• safe operation requirements
• functional differences between continual and ordinary washers, their advantages and disadvantages
• classification of laundry and relevant program selection
• work-load requirements for continuous batch washing
• monitoring procedures
• requirements for maintaining optimum Dip levels
• level of operator responsibility for equipment maintenance and monitoring
• characteristics and hazards of chemicals and dispensing systems
• hazards associated with the removal of wet laundry from continuous conveyor
• common operational faults and their cause and required action
• safety and environmental aspects related to workplace and machine and equipment operation and manual handling, including consumable or hazardous materials
• OHS practices, including hazard identification and control measures
• workplace policies and procedures
• quality practices
• practices for recording and reporting
• relevant coverage from standard AS/NZS 4146 2000

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 for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Demonstrates skills and knowledge to:

• apply operational and safety procedures for the safe and efficient operation of continuous batch washing equipment
• interpret production schedules and work load priorities
• select washing conditions
• prepare chemicals (where automatic systems are not in place)
• control and monitor process operation
• interpret faults and address common operational problems

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Assessment may occur on the job or in an appropriately simulated environment.

Access is required to real or appropriately simulated situations, including work areas, materials and equipment, and to information on workplace practices and OHS practices.

Method of assessment 

This unit may be assessed independently or in combination with other relevant units.

Consistently applies skills and knowledge when:

• organising work
• completing tasks
• identifying improvements
• using workplace practices
• using OHS practices
• recording and reporting accidents and incidents
• assessing operational readiness of equipment used and work processes
• recognising and adapting to cultural differences in the workplace, including modes of behaviour and interactions
• completing work systematically with attention to detail without damage to goods and equipment

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.

Legislative/regulatory requirements 

All work must comply with relevant Federal and State or Territory legislative or regulatory requirements.

Associated equipment segments 

• sorting area
• dryers
• press
• conveyors
• computerised equipment

Type of continuous batch/tunnel washers include: 

• top washer transfer
• bottom washer transfer
• middle transfer

OHS practices 

OHS practices must include hazard identification and control, risk assessment and implementation of risk reduction measures specific to the tasks described by this unit, and may include:

• manual handling techniques
• standard operating procedures
• personal protective equipment
• safe materials handling
• taking of rest breaks
• ergonomic arrangement of workplaces
• following marked walkways
• safe storage of equipment
• housekeeping
• reporting accidents and incidents
• other OHS practices relevant to the job and workplace

Operational faults 

Operational faults identified by computer equipment may include:

• conveyor jam
• dryer out of sync
• weighing mechanism out of alignment
• press malfunctions
• drying temperature
• safety gate locking
• missed pockets
• chemical faults

Shut down maintenance 

• clean lint bags
• collect dropped linen
• clean work area