MSMWJ307
Operate a hydro excavation system

Course Description:

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​​MSMWJ307 Operate a hydro excavation system is a specialised unit of competency designed for professionals in the construction and utilities industries. This comprehensive course equips participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to safely and efficiently operate hydro excavation systems, a non-destructive method of excavation that uses pressurized water and a vacuum system.

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Key areas of focus include:

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• Understanding hydro excavation principles and applications

• Safe operation of hydro excavation equipment

• Identifying and managing risks associated with hydro excavation

• Compliance with environmental and safety regulations

• Proper maintenance and troubleshooting of hydro excavation systems

• Effective communication and teamwork in hydro excavation operations

 

This course is intended for industrial maintenance workers who utilise a Class B high-pressure water jetting gun/lance combined with a vacuum loading system to perform hydro excavation, non-destructive digging (NDD), service locating, and potholing. It aligns with standards and guidelines, including AS4233.1 2013 Part 1 for High-Pressure Water Jetting Systems Safe Operation and Maintenance, AS4233.2 2013 Part 2 for Construction and Performance, the WSA 02 2014 Gravity Sewerage Code of Australia, WorkSafe QLD Guide for Managing Risks from High-Pressure Water Jetting, and the Code of Practice for Work Near Underground Assets.

 

This unit is crucial for those involved in underground utility location, trench excavation, and other projects requiring precise, non-destructive digging techniques.

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Upon completion of this unit, participants will be able to:

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• Understand the operational requirements and functions of a hydro excavation system.

• Safely set up, operate, and shut down hydro excavation equipment.

• Apply safe work practices to avoid injury and damage to underground services.

• Identify and control hazards associated with hydro excavation.

• Conduct routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting on hydro excavation equipment.

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Important information

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This course is for the single unit of MSMWJ307only and due to the inherent risks involved in hydro excavation, Academy of Career Training strongly recommends undertaking the nationally accredited skill set training MSMSS00021 - Operate a Hydro Excavation System which includes the following;

 

• MSMWHS110 Follow emergency response procedures

• MSMWJ307 Operate a hydro excavation system

• MSMWHS200 Work safely

• MSMPER200 Work in accordance with an issued permit

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​Mode of Delivery: Blended Classroom and Hands on.

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This unit is delivered through a blend of theoretical and practical training:

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• Classroom sessions: For understanding principles, safety procedures, and regulations

• Hands-on training: Practical experience with hydro excavation equipment in simulated work environments

• On-site observations: Where possible, observing real hydro excavation operations

• Online modules: For flexible learning of theoretical components

• Assessment tasks: Both written and practical to ensure comprehensive skill development

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Course Duration: 2-3 days

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The duration of this unit is typically 2-3 days of intensive training, depending on the learner's prior experience and the specific delivery mode. This includes:

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• 1-2 days of combined theoretical and practical training

• 1 day for assessment and review

 

Additional time may be required for completion of any pre-course study materials or post-course workplace assessments.

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Cost: $850.00​

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Course Prerequisites and Entry Requirements

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To undertake this unit, participants should have:

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• Basic understanding of construction or utilities operations

• Sufficient English language skills to understand technical instructions and communicate effectively in a team

• Physical fitness to perform the practical aspects of hydro excavation

• Basic numeracy skills for calculations related to pressure and volume

• Willingness to adhere to strict safety protocols

• Additional Information: Please review our Student Handbook  for general and important information applicable to all courses.

 

While not mandatory, prior experience with heavy machinery or water jetting equipment can be beneficial

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​Assessment Method

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Assessment for this unit will be conducted using a combination of theoretical and practical methods to ensure comprehensive evaluation of the participant's knowledge and skills:

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1. Written Assessment: A theory test covering hydro excavation principles, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.

2. Practical Assessment: Participants will demonstrate their ability to safely set up, operate, and shut down hydro excavation equipment in a controlled environment or, where possible, on an actual work site.

3. Observation Checklist: Trainers will use a detailed checklist to assess the participant's performance during practical tasks.

4. Verbal Questioning: To assess underpinning knowledge and decision-making processes.

5. Logbook Review: If applicable, a review of the participant's logbook of relevant work experience.

 

Successful completion of the unit requires satisfactory performance in all assessment components. Participants will have the opportunity for reassessment if needed, with additional support provided to ensure competency.

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Course Content

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• Introduction to Hydro Excavation:

  • Overview of hydro excavation principles and applications.

  • Understanding the importance of non-destructive digging (NDD).

  • Common uses of hydro excavation in various industries.

• Understanding Hydro Excavation Systems:

  • Components and functions of hydro excavation equipment, including the water pressure system, vacuum system, and control panels.

  • Safe operating limits and equipment specifications.

• Preparing for Hydro Excavation Operations:

  • Site preparation, including hazard identification and risk assessments.

  • Selection and use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Pre-operational equipment checks and maintenance procedures.

• Operating Hydro Excavation Equipment:

  • Correct use of water pressure and vacuum settings for different soil types and excavation depths.

  • Methods for exposing underground services while preventing damage.

  • Techniques for managing debris and slurry generated during excavation.

  • Monitoring equipment performance during operations to ensure safety and efficiency.

• Controlling Hazards and Risks:

  • Identifying and managing risks associated with high-pressure water systems and vacuum equipment.

  • Methods for preventing damage to underground utilities such as gas lines, cables, and water pipes.

  • Emergency procedures in case of equipment malfunction or damage to underground services.

• Shutting Down and Post-Operation Procedures:

  • Safe shutdown procedures for hydro excavation equipment.

  • Cleaning and storing equipment after use.

  • Conducting post-operational inspections and recording maintenance requirements.

• Routine Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

  • Basic maintenance tasks such as checking filters, hoses, and nozzles.

  • Identifying common issues with hydro excavation systems and implementing corrective actions.

  • Reporting and recording maintenance and repair activities.

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What to bring

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Participants should come prepared with the following items:

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• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Steel-capped safety boots

  • High-visibility vest or clothing

  • Hard hat

  • Safety glasses

  • Hearing protection

  • Gloves

• Identification: Current photo ID 

• Stationery: Notebook, pen, and calculator

• Clothing: Weather-appropriate clothing suitable for outdoor work and getting wet/muddy

• Water bottle - Lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea provided.

• Relevant Documentation: Any current tickets or certificates related to construction or machinery operation

• Medical Information: Information about any relevant medical conditions or medications

• Prior Learning Evidence: If seeking RPL, bring any relevant work records or references

 

Please note that while some PPE may be provided, it's recommended that participants bring their own to ensure proper fit and familiarity. The training provider will supply all necessary hydro excavation equipment and training materials.

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Certification

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Upon successful completion of the MSMWJ307 Operate a hydro excavation system,  participants will receive a nationally recognised qualification. Certification will be issued once:

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• Successfully completed all required assessment tasks

• Paid all course fees in full

• Provided all necessary supporting documentation

 

Please note that your certification will be issued within 30 calendar days of meeting these requirements, in accordance with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) guidelines

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