PMASUP236 – Operate vehicles in the field

Course Overview:

This unit of competency covers the skills and knowledge required to prepare and operate vehicles and related equipment to patrol pipelines or otherwise drive across a variety of terrains.

This unit of competency applies to operators who are required to check their vehicle daily for damage, ensure fuels and lubricant levels are maintained, effect minor repairs, prepare and maintain field equipment, and communicate with their base station.

In a typical scenario an operations technician patrols areas of pipeline or follows pipelines across a variety of terrains looking for problems which require maintenance or reporting, or drives to remote facilities. During the course of their work they must check the vehicle for mechanical soundness before leaving base, ensure it is securely and adequately packed, make certain their communications equipment and contact schedule are in order and generally be prepared for long periods off-road.

Generally the operations technician would be part of a team during field trips, though they may be required to undertake limited trips. At all times they would be liaising and cooperating with their base station.

Operators must have the appropriate class of driver’s licence before taking charge of the vehicle.

No other licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.

Course Outline:

• Prepare vehicle and secure load
• Undertake journey
• Operate vehicle
• Finalise journey
• Recover vehicle
• Maintain vehicle safety

**Please note you need to bring your own 4WD vehicle on the day of the course. If you do not have a vehicle, you can explore rental vehicles.