Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 1:37 AM AWST

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Classify soils

Classify soils

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL974014
State Code
AWN98
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
01/03/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
16/08/2016
Field of Education
010709 - Soil Science
Original Release Date
16/08/2016
Nominal Hours
80
Description
This unit of competency covers the ability to classify soils for geotechnical and civil construction purposes using the symbols and descriptors specified in the Australian Standard for Geotechnical Site Investigations (AS 1726-1993 Geotechnical site investigations, or its replacement). The unit involves confirming the client’s requirements, physical examination of site samples, interpreting field observations and test results and assignment of an appropriate soil classification. Personnel are expected to recognise and rectify obvious errors or unexpected results, perform confirmatory tests if required and seek advice to deal with situations beyond their own technical competence.This competency is typically performed by laboratory technicians working in the construction, mining and drilling industry sectors under the guidance of a geotechnical paraprofessional or engineer.While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, laboratory operations are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Prepare to classify soil samples
  • 1.1 Review job request and any accompanying documentation to identify purpose of soil classification and client’s information needs
  • 1.2 Identify any hazards and relevant safe work procedures associated with the types of site samples
  • 1.3 Inspect supplied samples and test data, compare with specifications and record and report any discrepancies
  • 1.4 Liaise with client when supplied samples, test data and/or job request forms do not comply with workplace procedures and resolve any problems
  • 1.5 Assemble required equipment/materials and check that they are fit for purpose
2 Examine properties of soil samples
  • 2.1 Assess appearance and feel of soil to determine moisture condition
  • 2.2 Use moulding/indentation tests, penetrometer and/or density index data to determine soil consistency
  • 2.3 Identify the soil’s major, secondary and minor components and the proportion of each
  • 2.4 Assign a soil colour based on own observations and review of field log sheets
  • 2.5 Determine soil structure based on own observations and review of available zoning, defect and cementing data recorded for undisturbed field samples
  • 2.6 Review any additional observations and test data that may identify soil origin
3 Analyse available test results
  • 3.1 Compare supplied mechanical test data with standard classification values for different soil types
  • 3.2 Compare particle size and percentage composition data with standard classification values for different soil types
  • 3.3 Compare other laboratory test results with own observations to confirm assignment of plasticity, grading and strength of soil samples
  • 3.4 Recognise anomalies or unexpected results and, if necessary, recheck specimens and test results and conduct repeat tests to ensure reliable results
4 Record soil classification
  • 4.1 Use standard symbols and descriptors to assign a valid soil classification
  • 4.2 Record and store client’s soil classification, samples and test data in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 4.3 Maintain confidentiality of client information
5 Maintain a safe work environment
  • 5.1 Use safe work procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other personnel
  • 5.2 Clean work area and collect, recycle or dispose of all waste in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 5.3 Clean and check serviceability of test equipment before storage
No information
No information
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAC68 MSL974028 Classify soils Unit of competency