Elements and Performance Criteria

Context:
This competency unit includes -
bars and mesh
bars and mesh prepared by reinforcement supplier
welding of reinforcement cages
wire tying of reinforcement cages
using automatic and semi-automatic reinforcement machines.
Typical problems include -
dimensions and positions of fittings and lugs
incorrect cover to steel
incorrect size and shape of completed reinforcement
inadequate tying of assembled reinforcement
undercutting, which can burn part of the steel away
cropping bar inside a mould which can result in small offcuts of bar falling to the bottom of the mould
assembling welded cages inside a steel mould which may produce welding spatter on the mould.
This competency includes the operation of all ancillary equipment and the operation of plant using programmable logic controllers (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 reinforcement fabrication and placement process be understood and that the importance of critical material properties and specifications 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:

fittings and lifting lugs are correctly positioned
steel coverage is adequate
dimensions/dimensional tolerance is correct
appropriate grade of steel is used
minimum lap sizes are observed where bar and/or fabric must be lapped
reinforcement is fixed securely by tying or tack welding to prevent movement during casting.
Competence must be demonstrated in the operation of all ancillary equipment to the level required for this competency unit.

Resources 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 and enterprise requirements
Knowledge and understanding of the fabrication and placement of reinforcement 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, reinforcement designs, schedules, tags and specifications
predict final shape/dimension based on bar size/type, bend radius, etc
use appropriate fixing equipment such as tie wires and/or welding

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)