Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
24/07/2026 6:00 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Employ air-lift devices underwater

Employ air-lift devices underwater

Unit of competency
National Code
DEFDV013B
State Code
AVV14
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
24/01/2013
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
Nominal Hours
0
Description
This unit covers the competency required to move submerged objects using air-lift devices (i.e. bags).The unit includes selecting and inspecting the bags appropriate to the lift, securing the bags to the object and inflating the bags to the required buoyancy in order to manoeuvre the object under control. Attention must be given to safety of other divers and nearby vessels and/or structures during work, as well as consideration for the environment.Note: This Unit of Competency relates, in part, to the existing standards of the Australian Diver Accreditation Scheme (ADAS). All information was correct at the time of development of this Unit of Competency; however, any diver seeking ADAS accreditation should consult ADAS and not rely on the information contained in this unit.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for underwater air-lift operation
  • 1.1 Load metrics and worksite data are determined and analysed to determine the specific requirements for the air-lift bags.
  • 1.2 Work plan is developed consistent with the dive plan.
  • 1.3 Air-lift bags are selected, inspected and prepared.
  • 1.4 Air-lift bags are secured safely to/from the dive site.
  • 1.5 Access obstructions and other hazards are assessed and action is taken to remove/reduce the risk.
2. Operate air-lift devices
  • 2.1 Air-lift bags are secured to the object's lift point/s.
  • 2.2 A work-safe area is established and the location and safety of divers is confirmed prior to commencing the lift.
  • 2.3 Air-lift bags are inflated and adjusted to control buoyancy.
  • 2.4 Movement of the object is effectively controlled.
3. Conclude air-lift operations
  • 3.1 Environmental impact arising from the work task is minimised and waste products are recovered .
  • 3.2 Air-lift bags are de-rigged from the object.
  • 3.3 Air-lift bags are de-serviced and stored for re-use.
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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.
Load metrics may include:
centre of gravity
composition
dimensions
lift points
weight
Worksite data may include:
current
depth
gradient
hazards
obstacles
Selecting, inspecting and preparing air-lift bags may include:
checking attachment lines and points
inspecting the neck
inspecting the outer skin
test fill
Action to remove/reduce the risk may include:
erecting signage
using patrol/sentry craft
Effectively controlling the object's movement may include:
both lateral and vertical adjustments
Environmental impact may include:
contamination of surrounding water (e.g. leaking oil)
physical damage to reef and associated floor eco-systems (e.g. coral)
visual pollution of waste material (e.g. concrete and metal parts)
De-servicing may include:
drying
logging work details into equipment logs
oiling/greasing
washing in fresh water
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Assessment must confirm the ability to attend to personal and collective safety; and to consider the environmental impact as part of the dive plan.
Consistency in performance
Competency should be demonstrated during the following airlift operations with manually inflated airbags:
1 x vertical lift to surface
lift distance - at least 5 metres (object must breach surface)
depth - between 5 to 20 metres
weight - at least 250 kg
1 x lateral lift
lateral distance - at least 10 metres
depth - between 5 to 20 metres
weight - at least 250 kg.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Context of assessment
Competency should be assessed in the ocean.
When practicable, assessment should relate to the diver’s vocational focus.
Specific resources for assessment
Access to a complete range of diving, safety and accessory equipment; airlift equipment; and submerged objects.
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
BBC90 DEFWDV013 Employ air-lift devices underwater Unit of competency
No information