Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 7:33 PM 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.

Operate compressors

Operate compressors

Unit of competency
National Code
RIIPGP203D
State Code
WH573
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
07/12/2014
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
28/05/2014
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
28/05/2014
Nominal Hours
20
Description
This unit describes a participant’s skills and knowledge required to operate compressors in Metalliferous Mining. This unit is appropriate for those working in operational roles.Licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements that apply to this unit can vary between states, territories, and industry sectors. Relevant information must be sourced prior to application of the unit.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan and prepare for compressor operation
  • 1.1 Access, interpret and apply compressor operation documentation and ensure the work activity is compliant
  • 1.2 Obtain, read, interpret, clarify and confirm work requirements
  • 1.3 Select and wear personal protective equipment appropriate for the activity
  • 1.4 Obtain and interpret emergency procedures, and be prepared for fire/accident/emergency
  • 1.5 Identify and address potential risks, hazards and environmental issues, and implement control measures
2. Start-up compressor
  • 2.1 Perform pre-start-up checks
  • 2.2 Start-up individual items of equipment and the entire compressor system
  • 2.3 Start-up normally and after maintenance
  • 2.4 Build pressure steadily with no surging
  • 2.5 Stabilise compressor system to produce specified pressures and flows within minimum time
3. Monitor and control the compressor
  • 3.1 Complete routine checks, logs and paper work
  • 3.2 Recognise the signs of potential and actual problems
  • 3.3 Monitor temperatures and lubrication oil and take action as required
  • 3.4 Trim plant to achieve required pressures and flows while maximising plant efficiency
4. Change compressor output
  • 4.1 Predict the need to change compressor output to meet process requirements
  • 4.2 Change compressor output as required
  • 4.3 Manage changes smoothly and in a timely manner
5. Maintain plant effectiveness
  • 5.1 Frequently and critically monitor all plant throughout shift
  • 5.2 Use measured/indicated data and smell, sight, sound and feel as appropriate to monitor plant
  • 5.3 Identify critical equipment/processes and tune their performance
  • 5.4 Identify issues likely to impact on plant performance and take appropriate action
  • 5.5 Predict impact of a change in one unit/area on other plant units/area and communicate this to relevant people
  • 5.6 Test trips and alarms
  • 5.7 Prepare plant for maintenance/vessel entry
  • 5.8 Complete minor maintenance
  • 5.9 Receive plant back from maintenance
  • 5.10 Prepare plant for the introduction of gas and operation
6. Shutdown compressor
  • 6.1 Determine type of shutdown required
  • 6.2 Give advanced warning of shutdown
  • 6.3 Changeover individual items of equipment
  • 6.4 Shutdown individual items of equipment and the entire compressor system
  • 6.5 Shutdown in an emergency
  • 6.6 Reset trips and alarms after a shutdown
  • 6.7 Leave plant in a condition ready to restart
  • 6.8 Shut-down for maintenance
7. Conduct housekeeping activities
  • 7.1 Clear work area and dispose of or recycle materials
  • 7.2 Clean and maintain condition of equipment, ensure suitability for use, and address/report issues
  • 7.3 Manage and/or report hazards, and maintain a safe working environment
  • 7.4 Process records
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WB372 RIIPGP203A Operate compressors Unit of competency