Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to carry out basic routine workplace calculations, including carrying out required mathematical operations; preparing basic estimates of mass, size and volume; and interpreting basic graphical representations of mathematical information. It includes calculations for routine industry-related tasks using manual and electronic processes. It specifically includes the skills and knowledge needed to estimate/calculate manual load shifting requirements. Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements may be applicable to this unit.

Application of the Unit 

Calculations are carried out as an integral part of routine work in the context of the workplace concerned.

Work is performed under some supervision, generally within a team environment.

Work involves the application of established mathematical principles and techniques in day-to-day work activities.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

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.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1 Carry out calculations 

1.1 Items are counted singly and in batches and sorted numerically, as required in workplace tasks

1.2 Calculations needed to complete work tasks are performed using the four basic processes of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division

1.3 Calculations involving fractions, percentages and mixed numbers, and using the four basic processes, are performed as required to complete workplace tasks

1.4 The functions of a calculator, numeric keypad or computer are used to perform workplace tasks

1.5 Numerical information is self-checked and corrected for accuracy

2 Prepare estimates 

2.1 Quantities of materials and resources required to complete a work task are estimated

2.2 The time needed to complete a work activity is estimated

2.3 Accurate estimates for work completion are made

3 Interpret graphical representations of mathematical information 

3.1 Information represented in symbols, diagrams and pictorial representations is recognised, interpreted and acted upon in workplace tasks

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS 

This describes the essential knowledge and skills and their level required for this unit.

Required knowledge :

• Relevant procedures and duty of care requirements

• Relevant OH&S responsibilities

• Basic mathematical operations and techniques

• Ways of representing basic mathematical information

• Procedures for identifying and using relevant workplace technology when carrying out workplace calculations

• Typical mathematical problems, and appropriate action and solutions

Required skills :

• Communicate effectively with others when carrying out basic workplace calculations

• Read and interpret instructions, procedures and information relevant to basic workplace calculations

• Interpret and follow operational instructions and prioritise work

• Complete documentation related to work activities

• Operate electronic communication equipment to required protocol

• Work collaboratively with others when carrying out basic workplace calculations

• Adapt appropriately to cultural differences in the workplace, including modes of behaviour and interactions with others

• Promptly report and/or rectify any identified problems that may arise when carrying out basic workplace calculations

• Monitor work activities in terms of planned schedule

• Modify activities depending on differing operational contingencies and environments

• Work systematically with required attention to detail

• Operate and adapt to differences in equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

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 underpinning knowledge and skills
• applying relevant legislation and workplace procedures
• carrying out basic calculations as they relate to the job role
• identifying the most common forms of calculations as they relate to the job role

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 assessments using written/practical/oral assessments
• Practical assessment must occur:

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

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.

Calculations:

• will be those involved in basic routine work functions
• may occur by day or night and in a variety of work contexts

Calculations may involve:

• money
• volume
• weight
• time
• length and distance
• area
• perimeter

Mathematical operations may include:

• multiplication
• division
• addition
• subtraction
• percentages
• fractions

Consultative processes may include:

• staff members
• management
• union representatives
• industrial relations, occupational health and safety specialists
• other professional or technical staff

Depending on the type of organisation concerned and the local terminology used, workplace procedures may include:

• company procedures
• enterprise procedures
• organisational procedures
• established procedures

Calculations may involve the basic use of a range of technology including:

• manual techniques
• calculator
• computer

Information/documentation may include:

• workplace procedures, checklists and instructions
• goods identification numbers and codes
• manifests, bar codes, goods and container identification
• manufacturers specifications
• workplace policies
• supplier and/or client instructions
• material safety data sheets
• relevant codes of practice including the national standards for manual handling and the industry safety code
• award, enterprise bargaining agreement, other industrial arrangements
• standards and certification requirements
• quality assurance procedures

Applicable regulations and legislation may include:

• relevant regulations, standards and codes of practice, including the national standards for manual handling and industry safety codes
• dangerous goods and freight regulations and codes
• relevant Australian and state/territory OH&S legislation

Competency Field 

E - Communication and Calculation