Unit of competency details

Release 

TP Version 

Comments 

1

MTM11v3

Initial release.

MTMP3109A

Overview of the NLIS program utilising RFIDs

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. Implement start-up procedures

1.1 Follow work and manufacturer’s instructions to start-up readers and NLIS data terminals.

1.2 Check back up reader.

2. Perform pre-operational checks

2.1 Check operation of reader using test RFID.

2.2 Check terminal is connected to RFID reader and server.

2.3 Report issues promptly to relevant supervisors.

3. Ensure testing and maintenance regimes

3.1 Check routine testing and maintenance of readers is being performed.

4. Perform basic troubleshooting on hardware and software

4.1 Identify and isolate issue and check start-up procedures.

4.2 Follow basic trouble shooting tests using workplace procedures and manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Implement corrective action when hardware or software fails

5.1 Inform all relevant staff when hardware or software fails.

5.2 Implement fall-back plan including use of back-up readers and terminals.

5.3 Instruct operators as to new arrangements.

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

Required skills include: 

Ability to: 

• perform start-up operations for RFID readers and recorder
• undertake basic trouble-shooting operations
• use communication skills to interact with people; such as maintenance staff, equipment providers, supervisors and other operators to overcome operating problems
• take action to improve work performance as a result of self-evaluation, feedback from others, or in response to changed work practices or technology
• take appropriate steps to minimise workplace health and safety risks  
• work effectively as an individual and as part of a team.

Required knowledge includes: 

Knowledge of: 

• the NLIS system, including the origin and nature of the system, its commercial importance, role in food safety and importing country requirements, role in traceability
• NLIS regulatory requirements in relation to abattoirs
• start up procedures on readers and NLIS data terminals
• pre-operational checks on readers and NLIS data terminals
• manufacturer’s instructions
• workplace procedures
• routine testing and maintenance requirements
• standard simple trouble shooting on software and hardware
• role and responsibilities of regulators, and other bodies such as MLA in relation to NLIS.

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

The meat industry has specific and clear requirements for evidence. A minimum of three forms of evidence is required to demonstrate competency in the meat industry. This is specifically designed to provide evidence that covers the demonstration in the workplace of all aspects of competency over time.

These requirements are in addition to the requirements for valid, current, authentic and sufficient evidence.

Three forms of evidence means three different kinds of evidence – not three pieces of the same kind. In practice it will mean that most of the Unit is covered twice. This increases the legitimacy of the evidence.

All assessment must be conducted against Australian meat industry standards and regulations.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this Unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

• implement start-up procedures
• perform pre-operational checks
• ensure testing and maintenance regimes
• perform basic trouble shooting on hardware and software
• implement corrective action when hardware or software fails.

Assessment must confirm knowledge of:

• the NLIS system, including the origin and nature of the system, its commercial importance, role in food safety and importing country requirements, role in traceability
• NLIS regulatory requirements in relation to abattoirs
• start up procedures on readers and NLIS data terminals
• pre-operational checks on readers and NLIS data terminals
• manufacturer’s instructions
• workplace procedures
• routine testing and maintenance requirements
• standard simple trouble shooting on software and hardware
• role and responsibilities of regulators, and other bodies such as MLA in relation to NLIS.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment must be conducted in the workplace.

Resources may include:

• enterprise work instructions
• Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) NLIS assistance
• manufacturer's instructions.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

• workplace referee’s report
• knowledge test
• on-the-job demonstration with assessor observation.

Assessment practices should take into account any relevant language or cultural issues related to Aboriginality or Torres Strait Islander, gender, or language backgrounds other than English. Language and literacy demands of the assessment task should not be higher than those of the work role.

Guidance information for assessment

A current list of resources for this Unit of Competency is available from MINTRAC www.mintrac.com.au or telephone 1800 817 462.

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.

Workplace health and safety risks  when working with livestock may include:

• zoonotic diseases such as Q-Fever
• manual handling risks
• being aware of and managing risks affecting co-workers
• risks associated with the use of electrical equipment.