Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 6:19 AM AWST

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Operate complex control systems

Operate complex control systems

Unit of competency
National Code
PMAOPS405
State Code
AXM86
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
02/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
05/08/2016
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
05/08/2016
Nominal Hours
80
Description
This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to operate a complex control panel. The panel will control entire plant areas and multiple products/process streams and will use a large number of control loops and a broad range of control algorithms; and will probably include advanced process control (APC) as one of its operations. Its operation will require managing multiple complex tasks. This unit of competency includes all such items of equipment and unit operations which form part of the control system, including as appropriate to the facility: process control systems (e.g. distributed control systems (DCS), and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)) use of multiple control systemsinteracting control loops/cascade controlpersonal computersprintersfire and gas detection/protection systemsemergency shutdown (ESD) systemscommunications systems.This unit of competency applies to senior technicians or those in similar roles who are required to apply in-depth knowledge of process and plant to in order to operate, monitor and optimise an entire plant area consisting of several plant units/systems, solve process problems and liaise with other plant areas. This control system would typically be an advanced control system and may include operation of simpler control systems as part of its operation. The panel will typically be located off plant in a control room.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Use operator interface
  • 1.1 Use keyboards, track ball and monitor and/or stand-alone controllers to access control system/panel
  • 1.2 Monitor the process using the operator interfaces
  • 1.3 Select appropriate controller modes
  • 1.4 Access historical data and information
  • 1.5 Acknowledge messages and alarms
  • 1.6 Access advanced control features as appropriate
2 Access control information
  • 2.1 Obtain relevant data and information from the control system by applying systems knowledge
  • 2.2 Identify the status of individual pieces of equipment from the control panel and use information to identify potential faults
  • 2.3 Minimise fluctuations and variations in process through the interpretation of existing trends and control schematics
  • 2.4 Determine the overall operating effectiveness of the plant area related to the required targets for the area
  • 2.5 Record process variations/irregularities to procedures
3 Control process variations and monitor operations
  • 3.1 Monitor process using all information available in the control room
  • 3.2 Use historical data to assist the identification of problems
  • 3.3 Process available information to identify potential faults
  • 3.4 Undertake required set point/output changes to meet plant area and process requirements
  • 3.5 Adjust production in response to test results and control panel information
  • 3.6 Monitor key process and environmental variables and take action to achieve required outcomes
  • 3.7 Adjust controller settings in accordance with procedures
  • 3.8 Use advanced control features as appropriate
  • 3.9 Turn controller features on and off to meet process and control needs
  • 3.10 Optimise operation of entire plant area in accordance with guidelines
  • 3.11 Undertake calibration operations in accordance with procedures.
  • 3.12 Coordinate with stakeholders external to the plant area in accordance with procedures
  • 3.13 Record adjustments and variations to specifications/schedules
  • 3.14 Communicate to appropriate personnel as required
4 Facilitate planned and unplanned process start-ups and shutdowns
  • 4.1 Select and apply procedures to planned start-up and shutdown processes.
  • 4.2 Select and apply procedures to unplanned shutdown processes
  • 4.3 Implement all required emergency responses
  • 4.4 Communicate necessary information to all personnel affected by events
  • 4.5 Log all required information
5 Respond to alarms or out-of-specification conditions
  • 5.1 Identify system(s) affected by the alarm or condition
  • 5.2 Interpret alarms and prioritise actions to be taken
  • 5.3 Respond to the alarm or incident by following procedures
  • 5.4 Deal with any out-of-specification material in accordance with procedures
  • 5.5 Communicate the problem/solution to appropriate personnel
  • 5.6 Record the information as required
  • 5.7 Provide details of the alarm and action taken to the next shift at changeover
  • 5.8 Follow up on the incident to see that appropriate action has been taken
6 Control hazards
  • 6.1 Identify hazards/changes in hazards in the production/processing work area
  • 6.2 Assess the risks arising from those hazards
  • 6.3 Implement measures to control risks in line with procedures and duty of care
  • 6.4 Communicate hazards and hazard controls to affected personnel
7 Resolve other problems within scope of responsibility
  • 7.1 Identify possible problems in equipment, control systems or process
  • 7.2 Determine problems needing action
  • 7.3 Determine possible fault causes
  • 7.4 Rectify problem using appropriate solution within area of responsibility
  • 7.5 Follow initiated items through until final resolution has occurred
  • 7.6 Report problems outside area of responsibility to designated person
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
W8889 PMAOPS405A Operate complex control systems Unit of competency