Modification History
Not Applicable
Unit Descriptor
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to sinkhole dive in flooded caverns to a depth of 20-40 metres. This unit is conducted at safe partial pressures of the individual gases within the breathing gas mixture consumed.
Application of the Unit
This unit applies to those working as specialist sinkhole divers, sinkhole diving adventure guides, instructors or program managers who are required to sinkhole dive to a depth of 20-40 metres.
This unit may also apply to leaders working for outdoor education or adventure providers; volunteer groups; not-for-profit organisations or government agencies.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
No licensing, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement
Pre-Requisites
SISOCVE518A Apply cave diving skills
SISOCVE416A Apply cavern diving skills
SISOSCB302A Complete night dives
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
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. Plan a deep sinkhole dive. |
1.1. Access information on the site and formulate a dive plan according to relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures . 1.2. Identify and plan for potential hazards and risks associated with the sinkhole dive. 1.3. Identify possible sources of stress associated with sinkhole diving. 1.4. Convey the dive plan to the rest of the dive team. 1.5. Establish a communication system to use with buddy and other participants while diving. |
2. Select, fit and use sinkhole diving equipment. |
2.1. Select and fit personal equipment , so that it is streamlined to avoid snagging points. 2.2. Check personal equipment for safety and serviceability prior to the dive according to organisational policies and procedures and manufacturer's specifications. 2.3. Identify, fit and use group equipment according to manufacturer's specifications. 2.4. Use underwater breathing systems appropriately. |
3. Perform sinkhole dives. |
3.1. Apply sinkhole diving techniques , demonstrating correct posture. 3.2. Demonstrate effective buoyancy control and anti -silting techniques . 3.3. Apply minimal impact techniques to minimise damage to the environment while sinkhole diving. 3.4. Use a range of sinkhole diving techniques to negotiate features of a water-filled sinkhole. 3.5. Negotiate hazards and apply strategies to reduce risk while sinkhole diving. 3.6. Apply buddy diving procedures and communication techniques throughout sinkhole dive. 3.7. Apply techniques to deal with stress where required. |
4. Use sinkhole diving specific navigation skills. |
4.1. Apply sinkhole diving navigation aids to navigate through the sinkhole. 4.2. Demonstrate line placement and use of a cave reel . |
5. Evaluate sinkhole diving activity. |
5.1. Evaluate relevant aspects of the sinkhole diving activity. 5.2. Identify improvements for future sinkhole diving experiences. |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit. |
Required skills |
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Required knowledge |
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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. |
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Overview of assessment |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
Evidence of the following is essential:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
Assessment must ensure participation in sinkhole diving activities in sinkholes that reflect local conditions and are of sufficient breadth and duration to demonstrate competency and consistency of performance. Assessment must also ensure access to:
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Method of assessment |
A range of assessment methods should be used to assess practical skills and knowledge. The following examples are appropriate for this unit:
Holistic assessment with other units relevant to the industry sector, workplace and job role is recommended. |
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. |
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Dive plan may include: |
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Relevant legislation may include: |
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Organisational policies and procedures may include: |
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Hazards may include: |
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Risks may include: |
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Sources of stress may include: |
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Communication techniques may include: |
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Personal equipment may include: |
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Group equipment may include, but not be limited to: |
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Underwater breathing systems may include: |
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Sinkhole diving skills may include: |
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Buoyancy control may include: |
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Anti -silting techniques may include: |
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Minimal impact techniques may include: |
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Features may include: |
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Strategies to reduce risk may include: |
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Buddy diving procedures may include: |
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Techniques to deal with stress may include: |
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Navigation aids may include: |
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Use of cave reel may include: |
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Relevant aspects may include: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Outdoor Recreation
Competency Field
Caving