Unit of competency details

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency.

Performance criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide.

1 Carry out pre-start checks 

1.1 Allocation of motive power units is checked in conjunction with appropriate personnel

1.2 Motive power unit to be inspected and prepared is located

1.3 Completion of all maintenance activities is confirmed

1.4 Checks for safety controls are conducted in accordance with organisational procedures

1.5 Internal and external integrity checks are conducted in accordance with organisational procedures

1.6 Where required, fluid levels are checked and appropriate action is taken as required

2 Start motive power unit 

2.1 Motive power unit is started in accordance with manufacturer instructions and/or organisational procedures, and any faults are recognised, diagnosed, reported and recorded in appropriate records for follow-up

2.2 For critical or serious equipment faults that cannot be readily rectified, motive power unit is shut down, faulty equipment is isolated and tagged, and problem is reported for rectification

2.3 All instruments and gauges are observed, readings are interpreted to confirm effective air and electrical operation, and where a problem is indicated action is taken to determine the cause and to rectify or report the situation

2.4 Where required, fluid levels are rechecked after starting and appropriate action is taken as required

2.5 Pre-movement checks are carried out to ensure motive power unit is braking and powering effectively and is safe to move

3 Complete documentation 

3.1 All required documentation concerning inspecting the motive power unit is completed in accordance with organisational procedures and regulatory requirements

3.2 Logbook and other maintenance records on the motive power unit are completed in accordance with organisational procedures and regulatory requirements

4 Position motive power unit 

4.1 Authority to move and position motive power unit is obtained and relevant personnel are advised of intention and procedures

4.2 Relevant personnel are made aware that motive power unit is about to be moved in accordance with organisational procedures

4.3 Motive power unit is operated in accordance with standard procedures and regulatory requirements, and within operating and operational constraints

4.4 Motive power unit is positioned in accordance with operational requirements and directions

4.5 Motive power unit performance is monitored during operation to confirm effective operation and/or to identify defects

4.6 Equipment defects are identified, reported, rectified and recorded or relevant personnel are advised for assistance

4.7 Relevant occupational health and safety (OH&S) and regulatory requirements are followed to ensure safety and to prevent injury and damage

4.8 Relevant personnel are advised that the motive power unit is secured in the required position and is ready for service

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

Required knowledge: 

• Procedures for managing and controlling hazardous situations when preparing and starting up a motive power unit

• Procedures for raising and lowering a pantograph on electric motive power units

• Relevant OH&S and environmental procedures and relevant regulations

• Requirements for completing relevant documentation when inspecting and preparing a motive power unit

Required skills: 

• Adapt to differences in motive power units and associated equipment and procedures

• Communicate effectively with others when inspecting and preparing a motive power unit

• Document outcomes of inspection of a motive power unit

• Interpret and follow instructions and prioritise work

• Modify activities depending on differing operational contingencies, risk situations and environments

• Read and interpret instructions, procedures, information and signs relevant to the visual inspection, preparation, start-up and positioning of a motive power unit

• Work collaboratively with others inspecting and preparing a motive power unit

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required knowledge and skills, the range statement and the assessment guidelines for this Training Package.

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

• The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria of this unit and include demonstration of applying:

• the required knowledge and skills
• relevant legislation and workplace procedures
• other relevant aspects of the range statement

• Assessment must include exercises which demonstrate competent performance of the following in a range of situations:

• identifying who is responsible for authorising the movement of rolling stock
• identifying all activities carried out prior to moving a motive power unit
• identifying start up requirements for a motive power unit

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

• Performance is demonstrated consistently over a period of time and in a suitable range of contexts
• Resources for assessment include:

• a range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or other simulated practical and knowledge assessment, and/or
• access to an appropriate range of relevant operational situations in the workplace

• In both real and simulated environments, access is required to:

• relevant and appropriate materials and equipment, and
• applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

Method of assessment 

• As a minimum, assessment of knowledge must be conducted through appropriate written/oral tests
• Practical assessment must occur:

• through activities in an appropriately simulated environment, and/or
• in an appropriate range of situations in the workplace

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance.

Motive power units may include all motive power units in service within Australian rail systems and may include:

• diesel locomotives
• electric locomotives
• railcars
• multiple units (including electric multiple units)

Safety controls may include:

• flags
• personal and equipment lock outs

Relevant personnel may include:

• train crews
• train controllers and signallers
• depot coordinators
• yard masters, supervisors
• contractors
• third parties
• maintenance personnel
• cleaning personnel