Unit of competency
Modification History
Release |
Comments |
1 |
This unit was released in NWP Water Training Package release 1.0 and meets the Standards for Training Packages. This unit supersedes and is equivalent to NWP340A Measure and process hydrometric stream discharge data using wading gaugings.
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Application
This unit of competency describes the skills required to collect stream discharge data using a range of current meters. An understanding of risk assessment and factors affecting the accuracy and precision of the area velocity method is essential to performance.
This unit applies to hydrographers employed by the water industry and to water operators involved in the monitoring of all the elements of the water cycle and their impact on the related environment.
The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures and relevant industry standards must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those relating to WHS, Bureau of Meteorology, World Meteorological Organisation and Australian Standards.
Those undertaking this unit would work in small teams, mostly under supervision, while performing complex tasks in a broad range of contexts that could be unpredictable, including remote, confined spaces, near water and/or at heights.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Competency Field
Hydrography
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Prepare to collect discharge data |
1.1 Identify the monitoring objective of the site and gauging requirements. 1.2 Identify, analyse and confirm the data collection method required by the organisation. 1.3 Select appropriate equipment and confirm site conditions are within instrument specifications. 1.4 Verify calibration and maintenance status. 1.5 Evaluate site conditions and prepare for taking measurements. 1.6 Identify possible influences on discharge measurement. 1.7 Select the cross-section for discharge measurement. |
2. Collect depth and velocity data |
2.1 Measure the width of the section. 2.2 Select appropriate sounding points (verticals) to subdivide the cross-section. 2.3 Measure the depth of vertical. 2.4 Select method to suit the ambient conditions and flow. 2.5 Collect velocity data at appropriate depth(s) for each vertical. |
3. Calculate discharge |
3.1 Calculate the point velocity. 3.2 Calculate the mean velocity for each vertical. 3.3 Calculate the area of subsection corresponding to each vertical. 3.4 Calculate the discharge corresponding to each subsection. 3.5 Calculate the area and discharge at the section by summation of the subsection data. 3.6 Apply corrections for oblique flow as required. |
4. Complete recording and reporting requirements for discharge measurement |
4.1 Gather supporting information from the site and complete documentation. 4.2 Calculate and record the mean stage height and rate of change using relevant mathematical techniques. 4.3 Grade and record the gauging quality. 4.4 Check records. 4.5 Enter gauging into ratings database. |
Foundation Skills
The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.
Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.
Range of Conditions
Area velocity methods include: |
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Unit Mapping Information
This unit supersedes and is equivalent to NWP340A Measure and process hydrometric stream discharge data using wading gaugings.
Links
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=26336bc0-04e5-49d9-8c31-46c49b6a0037
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=26336bc0-04e5-49d9-8c31-46c49b6a0037
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=26336bc0-04e5-49d9-8c31-46c49b6a0037
Companion Volume implementation guides are found in VETNet - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=26336bc0-04e5-49d9-8c31-46c49b6a0037