Elements and Performance Criteria

Context
This competency unit includes -
understanding reinforcement design drawings
understanding reinforcement schedules
understanding reinforcement tags
bars and mesh
bars and mesh prepared by reinforcement supplier
validation of test certificates
cropping and guillotining of bar and mesh
bending and other preparation of reinforcement ready for assembly
using automatic and semi-automatic reinforcement machines.
Typical problems include -
dimensions and positions of fittings and lugs as they affect reinforcement dimension and shape
adequate cover of steel
predicting final size and shape of bent bar reinforcement
rectifying design and scheduling errors that may not be obvious until items are assembled.
This competency includes the operation of all ancillary equipment and the operation of plant using PLCs where appropriate.
All operations are performed in accordance with standard procedures and work instructions.

OHS
All operations are subject to stringent OHS requirements and these must not be compromised at any time. Where there is an apparent conflict between performance criteria and OHS requirements, the OHS requirements take precedence.

Assessment context and methods
Competence in this unit may be assessed by observation over time on an operating plant. Where this is done, the timeframe must allow for adequate assessment of operation under all normal and a range of abnormal conditions. Where this is not practical, additional assessment techniques must be used.
Competence may also be assessed by use of a suitable simulation and/or a range of case studies/scenarios. A combination of these techniques should be used to ensure the competency is adequately assessed.
In all cases it is expected that the practical assessment will be supported by targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge. Questioning will be undertaken in such a manner as is appropriate to the language and literacy levels of the operator and reflecting the requirements of the competency.

Critical aspects
It is essential that the fabrication process be understood and that the importance of critical material properties, specifications and dimensions is known. Competence must be demonstrated in the ability to recognise and analyse potential situations requiring action and then in implementing appropriate corrective action.

Consistent performance should be demonstrated. In particular look to see that:

allowance is made for fittings and lifting lugs to be correctly positioned
steel coverage is adequate
dimensions/dimensional tolerance are correct
appropriate grade of steel is used.
Competence must be demonstrated in the operation of all ancillary equipment to the level required for this competency unit.

Resource implications
Resources required include suitable access to an operating plant or equipment which allows for appropriate and realistic simulation. A bank of case studies/scenarios will also be required where these form part of the assessment method. Questioning may take place either in the workplace, or in an adjacent, quiet facility such as an office or lunch room. No other special resources are required.

Essential knowledge
Knowledge and understanding of the fabrication process sufficient to recognise problems and take appropriate action.
Knowledge of the enterprise's standard procedures and work instructions and relevant regulatory requirements along with the ability to implement them within appropriate time constraints and in a manner relevant to the fabrication of reinforcement.

Competence includes the ability to:

apply and describe relevant quality tests
interpret plans ('steel drawings', reinforcement schedules) and specifications
make necessary calculations from 'steel drawings'
choose appropriate bending pin and bending machine set up
predict final shape/dimension based on bar size/type, bend radius, anchorage requirement, and so on

distinguish between causes of faults such as:

reinforcing
design
fabrication
equipment
as is relevant to the practical operation of the equipment/process/system.

Communicating ideas and information
(1)

Collecting analysing and organising information
(2)

Planning and organising activities
(2)

Working with others and in teams
(1)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
(2)

Solving problems
(1)

Using technology
(1)