Elements and Performance Criteria

Range of Variables
The Range of Variables explains the contexts within which the performance and knowledge requirements of this standard may be assessed. The scope of variables chosen in training and assessment requirements may depend on the work situations available
What soil tests may be undertaken?
These may include tests for pH, salinity, texture and soil type. Samples may include plugs and core samples. Test kits may include a dry test, CSIRO kits, EC meters and pH kits.
What OHS requirements may be relevant to this standard?
OHS requirements may include identifying hazards; assessing risks and implementing controls; cleaning, maintaining and storing tools and equipment; appropriate use of personal protective equipment including sun protection; safe operation of tools and equipment; safe handling, use and storage of chemicals and hazardous substances; correct manual handling; basic first aid; personal hygiene, and reporting problems to supervisors.
Where might turfed areas be established?
This unit applies to all turfed areas such as those found in public open space, parks and reserves, public and private gardens, and playing fields.
What turfing material may be used in this standard?
Plant material may include instant turf, sprigs, sod, seed, hydro-seed, and stolons.
What turf planting methods may be used?
Planting methods may include sowing, laying, rolling, chaffing, and sprigging.
What tools, equipment and machinery may be required for turf establishment?
Tools, equipment and machinery may include hand tools such as rakes, spreaders, shovels, turf spades, rollers, wheelbarrows, hoses and hose fittings, and machinery such as trailed or motorised equipment, sod cutters, mechanical rollers, fertiliser spreaders, top-dressing machinery, levellers, front-end loaders, trucks, hydraulic trailers, and tractors and 3-point linkage equipment.
How might newlyturf establishment sites vary?
Site may vary in soil types, moisture content, pH levels, salinity, texture, compaction, shade, aspect, climate, and proximity to buildings and roads.
For more information on contexts, environment and variables for training and assessment refer to the Sector Booklet.

What evidence is required to demonstrate competence for this standard as a whole?
Competence in this unit requires evidence that turfed areas have been successfully established. The skills and knowledge required to establish turf must be transferable to a range of work environments and contexts. For example, this could include different using different establishment techniques with different turf material over a range of areas to be planted.

What specific knowledge is needed to achieve the performance criteria?
Knowledge and understanding are essential to apply this standard in the workplace, to transfer the skills to other contexts, and to deal with unplanned events. The knowledge requirements for this unit are listed below:
appropriate agricultural chemicals and concentrations
turf identification and growth characteristics
soils and turf nutrition
fertiliser use and application
watering practices
common weeds, pests and diseases.


What specific skills are needed to achieve the performance criteria?
To achieve the performance criteria, some complementary skills are required. These skills include the ability to:
collect soil samples for analysis
establish turf
use turf establishment machinery and equipment
use fertilisers and irrigation equipment
repair areas of damaged turf.


What processes should be applied to this competency standard?
There are a number of processes that are learnt throughout work and life, which are required in all jobs. They are fundamental processes and generally transferable to other work functions. Some of these are covered by the key competencies, although others may be added. The questions below highlight how these processes are applied in this competency standard. Following each question a number in brackets indicates the level to which the key competency needs to be demonstrated where 0 = not required, 1 = perform the process, 2 = perform and administer the process and 3 = perform, administer and design the process.
1. How can communication of ideas and information (2) be applied?
Communication of ideas and information can be applied through workplace meetings and verbally with supervisors.
2. How can information be collected, analysed and organised (1)?
Information can be collected, analysed and organised by reporting and recording job progress.
3. How are activities planned and organised (1)?
Activities are planned and organised on a daily basis to get work completed.
4. How can team work (3) be applied?
Team work can be applied in all aspects of the work to achieve the outcomes of the unit.
5. How can the use of mathematical ideas and techniques (1) be applied?
The use of mathematical ideas and techniques can be applied in estimating and calculating materials.
6. How can problem-solving skills (1) be applied?
Problem-solving skills can be applied in overcoming minor establishment issues as they arise.
7. How can the use of technology (2) be applied?
The use of technology can be applied with the tools and equipment selected to complete the job.




Are there other competency standards that could be assessed with this one?
This competency standard could be assessed on its own or in combination with other competencies relevant to the job function.

There is essential information about assessing this competency standard for consistent performance and where and how it may be assessed, in the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package. All users of these competency standards must have access to the Assessment Guidelines. Further advice may also be sought from the relevant sector booklet.