Qualification Specifications. TQUK Level 3 Award in. Emergency Rescue and Recovery of. TQUK Level 3 Award in

Transcription

1 Qualification Specifications TQUK Level 3 Award in Emergency Rescue and Recovery of Casualties Qualification from Confined Specification Spaces (QCF) 601/3378/8 TQUK Level 3 Award in Working as Top Person in High Risk Confined Spaces (QCF) 601/3382/X 1

2 Contents Page no: 1. INTRODUCTION 3 2. QUALIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS 3 3. INTRODUCTION TO THE QUALIFICATION 4 4. PROGRESSION 4 5. STRUCTURE 5 6. ASSESSMENT 6 7. CENTRE APPROVAL 7 8. COURSE DELIVERY 9 9. CENTRE QUALITY ASSURANCE THE TQUK MANAGEMENT SUITE USEFUL WEBSITES UNITS OF ASSESSMENT APPENDIX 1 - Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy APPENDIX 2 - Centre Requirements Document 29 2

3 Introduction Welcome to TQUK. TQUK is an Awarding Organisation recognised by the Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) in England and by the Welsh Government. TQUK offers qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). Qualifications regulated by Ofqual are listed on the Register of Regulated Qualifications ( ). We aim to provide qualifications that meet the needs of industry which are designed by leading professionals and delivered to centres and learners with integrity and compliance in mind. To accompany the qualification, TQUK will provide centres with world class customer service to support the delivery of our qualifications. Please visit our website for news of our latest developments. Qualification Specifications Each qualification which TQUK offers is supported by a specification that includes all the information required by a centre to deliver a qualification. Information in the specification includes unit information, assessment and learning outcomes. The aim of the Qualification Specification is to guide a centre through the process for delivering the qualification. Please read alongside the TQUK Centre Handbook. Further details of TQUK s procedures and policies can be found on our website and accessed via a centre s homepage in the Management Suite. TQUK expects all centres to familiarise themselves with the specification and the Centre Handbook as they will assist in the administration, preparation, delivery and assessment of the qualification. All TQUK literature will be provided through the medium of English. On request, materials can be supplied in Welsh or Irish. Qualification specifications can be found on the TQUK website Please check the website regularly to ensure that you are using the most up to date version.. This qualification may be eligible for public funding. If you are applying for funding you should use the QN number. For further advice on funding, contact TQUK. If you have any further questions please contact TQUK. 3

4 Use of TQUK Logo, Name and Qualifications TQUK is a professional organisation and use of its name and logo is restricted. TQUK s name may only be used by approved centres to promote any TQUK qualifications. When using TQUK s logo, there must be no changes or amendments made to it, in terms of colour, size, border and shading. Only the logo given as part of centre approval should be used. Approved centres must only use the logo for promotional materials such as on corporate/business letterheads, pages of a centre's web site relating to TQUK qualifications, printed brochures, leaflets or exhibition stands. If a centre no longer has TQUK approved centre status, it must immediately discontinue the use of TQUK s logo. Introduction to the Qualifications The TQUK suite of confined space qualifications are regulated by Ofqual. They are supported by Proskills. Qualification Purpose The TQUK suite of confined space qualifications provides learners with the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of working in confined spaces. They will prepare learners to progress to qualifications in the same, or another, subject area and prepare them for employment. Entry Requirements There are no specific entry requirements however learners should have a minimum of Level two in literacy and numeracy or equivalent. The qualifications are suitable for learners 16 and above. Equivalent units Equivalence allows the replacement of a QCF unit in a qualification with another QCF unit that has comparable content and is of the same or greater credit value and level. Where other units are equivalent they have been indicated in the individual unit details at the end of this specification. Progression Successful learners can progress to other qualifications such as:- Level 3 Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (QCF) Level 4 Award in Health and Safety in the Workplace (QCF) Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Practice (QCF) 4

5 Structure TQUK Level 3 Award in Emergency Rescue and Recovery of Casualties from Confined Spaces (QCF) Learners must achieve two credits from one unit. Unit(s) Unit ref. Level Guided Learning Hours Credit value Emergency Rescue and Recovery of Casualties from Confined Spaces J/506/ TQUK Level 3 Award in Working as Top Person in High Risk Confined Spaces (QCF) Learners must achieve three credits from the one unit. Unit(s) Unit ref. Level Guided Learning Hours Credit value Working as Top Person in High Risk Confined Spaces M/506/ Guided Learning Hours The credit value of a qualification is based on the time taken by the average learner to achieve the relevant learning objectives. One credit equates to 10 hours of learning. These hours are made up of contact time with a teacher/assessor, referred to as guided learning hours (GLH), and non-contact time for study and assessment activities. Assessment The units are assessed through activities, which are developed by the centre, internally marked and sampled as part of quality assurance/ internal verification procedures. Recording documents for the assessments can be found on the TQUK Management Suite. Planned assessment activities must be submitted to TQUK prior to use with learners. The assessment and quality assurance process will be subject to external quality assurance/verification by TQUK. Assessment must meet the requirements of the Proskills Assessment Strategy (Appendix 1) All learning outcomes must be met to achieve a Pass - there is no grading. 5

6 Centre Approval To offer any TQUK qualification each centre must be registered with TQUK and meet centre and qualification approval criteria. Approval must be confirmed prior to any assessment of learners taking place. It is essential that centres provide learners with access to appropriate support in the form of specialist resources. Approved centres must seek approval for each qualification they wish to offer. The approval process requires centres to demonstrate that they have the resources including staff to deliver and assess the qualification. Centre Policies In order to obtain centre approval from TQUK, an approved centre must have a range of policies in place. A full list of these policies can be found on the centre s homepage of the TQUK Management Suite in the downloads section. It is a centre s responsibility to ensure that all employees are aware of the policies and procedures and that they are adhered to at all times. Learners should also be informed, by the centre, of policies that are relevant to them such as complaints and appeals. Failure to enforce or adhere to these policies could result in a centre s approval status being withdrawn. TQUK has policies and procedures in place to support centres. Definitions and details can be found in the Centre Handbook and on the TQUK website. These include: Equality and Diversity If a centre does not have an Equality and Diversity Policy, TQUK can provide one. Learners should be made aware that this policy is available for them should they choose to view it. Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations TQUK is committed to complying with all current and relevant legislation in relation to the development and delivery of our qualifications which at the time of writing includes, but is not limited to, the Equality Act We seek to uphold human rights relating to race relations, disability discrimination and special educational needs of our learners and to provide equal reasonable adjustments and special considerations for all learners registered on our qualifications. TQUK expect all approved centres to have in place an Equality and Diversity Policy, which includes the following principles and guidelines: Assessment should be a fair test of learners knowledge and what they are able to do. For some learners the usual format of assessment may not be suitable. We ensure that our qualifications and assessments do not bar learners from taking our qualifications. We recognise that reasonable adjustments or special considerations may be required at the time of assessment where:- 6

7 learners have a permanent disability or specific learning needs learners have a temporary disability, medical condition or learning needs learners are indisposed at the time of the assessment. The provision for reasonable adjustments and special consideration arrangements is made to ensure that learners receive recognition of their achievement so long as the equity, validity and reliability of the assessments can be assured. Such arrangements are not concessions to make assessment easier for learners, or to provide any learner with unfair advantage.. For full details of TQUK's policy and the process for requesting reasonable adjustments and/or special considerations, please refer to the Reasonable Adjustments and Special Considerations Policy on the homepage on the TQUK Management Suite. Appeals Policy TQUK s Appeals Policy is aimed at our customers, including learners, who are delivering/enrolled on or have taken a TQUK approved qualification or unit. It sets out the process a centre should follow when submitting appeals to TQUK and the process TQUK will follow when responding to enquiries and appeals. It is important that staff involved in the management, assessment and quality assurance of TQUK s qualifications are aware of the contents of TQUK s policy. For details of TQUK's policy and procedure on appeals, please refer to the homepage on the TQUK Management Suite. To be approved by TQUK, a centre must have in place an internal Appeals Policy that is shared with learners. Complaints For details of TQUK's policy and procedure on complaints, please refer to the homepage on the TQUK Management Suite. Support from TQUK Approved centres will be able to access support from TQUK whenever necessary. External Verifier visits will be undertaken on a regular basis. TQUK also offer approved centres the service of an Account Manager. An Account Manager s role is to support centres with any administration queries or qualification support. Course Delivery Pre-Course Information All learners should be given appropriate pre-course information regarding any TQUK qualifications. The information should explain about the qualification, the fee, the form of the assessment and any entry requirements or resources needed to undertake the qualification. 7

8 Initial Assessment Centres should ensure that any learner registered on a TQUK qualification undertakes some form of initial assessment. The initial assessment should be used to inform a teacher/trainer on the level of the learner s current knowledge and/or skills. Initial assessment can be undertaken by a teacher/trainer in any form, depending on the qualification to be undertaken by the learner/s. It is the centre's responsibility to make available forms of initial assessment that are valid, applicable and relevant to TQUK qualifications. All initial assessment findings should be analysed by a teacher/trainer and the information obtained should be used to inform teaching and learning approaches, content delivery and assessment strategies. Initial assessment will be reviewed during the IV and EV process. Learner Registration Once approved to offer a qualification, the centre should register learners before any assessment can take place. Approved centres must follow TQUK s procedures for registering learners on the homepage of the Management Suite. For short courses, TQUK offer the option of registering a course and booking a number of places. Learners are then added once the course has taken place, thus acknowledging situations where substitutions are made at short notice to meet business needs. Resources Learners will need access to the following:- Course manual ICT resources if applicable Equipment at the venue Appropriate general and subject specific texts A suitably equipped venue and resources Other resources to support identified needs of learners. Resources to support the delivery of the qualification This list is not final, additional resources may be added to meet the needs of the learners. Training Requirements Details of centre requirements for the delivery of these qualifications can be found in Appendix 2. Training must be delivered following quality detailed lesson plans. All lesson plans must include:- Aim (a clear concise statement to show what the learners are to achieve by the end of the course) Objectives (to give the learners a step by step guide as to how they are going to achieve the aim of the course) Length of time allocated for each individual session Learner activities during the session Training methods, resources and equipment to be used Methods of assessing the level of knowledge/skills the learners have gained. 8

9 Trainer/Assessor Requirements The role of a teacher, trainer, tutor or assessor is to deliver TQUK qualifications to learners. They must be qualified in the subject area they are delivering. Any centre staff delivering a qualification must also hold relevant experience of delivery of that qualification or work experience in the qualification subject. The responsibility of a trainer, teacher, tutor or assessor is to ensure that learners gain knowledge and/or skills when studying a TQUK qualification. They must ensure that they follow TQUK s qualification specifications and deliver an interesting and informative course to learners. They must ensure learners receive the correct support and/or advice to assist them in achieving their qualification. All TQUK qualifications must be delivered in a professional manner. It is a teacher/trainer s responsibility to ensure that all sessions are fully planned and prepared and that all resources are available to learners. In order to gain approval by TQUK to deliver any qualification in the Confined Space suite trainers/assessors must meet the requirements of the Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy (Appendix 1) and Show at least two years experience out of the previous five years of working in confined spaces in suitable sectors such as wider utilities, oil & gas, mining, civil engineering, nuclear energy etc - this can include training or assessment in a vocational and occupational environment. The experience must include a thorough working knowledge of: Current confined spaces regulations; current National Occupational Standards (NOS) and ACOP s The dynamics producing the confined space. The nature and implications of hazards in confined spaces The range and function of gas monitoring The selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) which is common and currently used. The range and function of breathing apparatus associated with the relevant risk level. The operation and use of safe systems of work, including permits to work schemes. Be able to demonstrate an ability to: prepare assessment work sites and present instructions to assessment learners effectively. discriminate between safe and unsafe learner performance and a teaching qualification such as: o o o o Further and Adult Education Teachers Certificate Cert Ed/PGCE/B Ed/M Ed PTLLS/CTLLS/DTLLS Level 3 Award/4 Certificate/5 Diploma in Education and Training and be occupationally competent in the training and/or assessing and operating within: o Learning and Development NOS 9 Assess Learner Achievement, evidenced by one or more of the following or equivalent qualification: 9

10 o o o o o Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment (QCF) Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement (QCF) Level 3 Award in Understanding the Principles and Practices of Assessment (QCF) Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (QCF) A1 or D32/D33 or attend a CPD event for trainer/assessors held by TQUK Important: For the Emergency Rescue qualification only, assessors must hold a basic first aid certificate in line with latest Water UK OGN requirements. For all other confined spaces qualifications, assessors will not be required to hold a first aid certificate. This, however, does not remove the requirement to have at all times during the assessment immediate access to a person holding these certificates. Assessment Policy A centre must ensure that assessment is valid, reliable and does not disadvantage or advantage any group of learners or individuals. The assessment procedure should be open, fair and free from bias. There should also be accurate and detailed recording of assessment decisions. In order to do this, the centre should:- Assess learners evidence using only the published assessment criteria Ensure that assessment decisions are impartial, valid and reliable Develop assessment procedures that will minimise the opportunity for malpractice Maintain accurate and detailed records of assessment decisions Maintain a robust and rigorous internal verification procedure Annually provide samples for external verification, as required by the awarding body Monitor external verifier reports and undertake any remedial action required Share good assessment practice between all training teams Ensure that assessment methodology is understood by all staff Provide resources to ensure that assessment can be performed accurately and appropriately Results and Certification Results and certificates will be issued to centres once they have undertaken the required internal quality assurance procedures and have undergone external quality assurance activities, necessary for each qualification. It is a centre s responsibility to ensure learners are notified about the result of any assessment outcomes. Approved centres must also fully inform learners regarding how and when they are able to obtain any results and/or certificates after successfully completing a course. Once all course documentation has been received and quality assured, certificates will be dispatched and should be received at the centre within 48 hours. To inform TQUK of learners who have passed, centres should use the Registering a Group of Learners section on the homepage of the TQUK Management Suite. 10

11 Should exceptional circumstances arise and a certificate is lost or damaged, learners may request a replacement certificate. Replacement certificates will have the same standing as original certificates and will incur a fee. An approved centre should make replacement certificate requests to TQUK. Centre Quality Assurance TQUK require a centre to have a functioning quality system in place that is appropriate to the centre s size and volume of learners. The centre should also maintain sufficient records that demonstrate the use of quality systems and the outcomes of key monitoring activities. All qualifications should be delivered to a high standard and assessment and internal quality assurance/verification must be embedded throughout a centre s quality assurance system. Each approved centre must employ staff who can undertake a number of specific roles that allow the centre to function effectively. Some centre roles can be undertaken by different individuals or the same person, depending on the size of the centre and the volume of TQUK qualification being delivered. Full details of centre and TQUK responsibilities for quality assurance can be found on the TQUK website and in the Centre Handbook. Internal Verifier The role of an Internal Verifier (IV) is at the heart of quality assurance and management systems of each approved TQUK Centre. There are three main aspects of the Internal Verifier role: - Verifying assessment Developing and supporting teachers, trainers, tutors and assessors Managing the quality of delivery Verifying assessment is concerned with maintaining the quality of assessment for all learners. In most centres this forms the core part of the Internal Verifier s duties, and is by far the most time consuming. There are three strands to verifying assessment:- sampling assessments, monitoring assessment practice and standardising assessment judgements. IVs should offer advice and guidance on best practice to trainers and assessors. IVs will undertake regular observations of trainers and assessors. They will also review learners portfolios and undertake standardisation activities as part of this support. IVs will be expected to devise and undertake sampling activities in line with centre approval responsibilities. They are also responsible for managing the quality of delivery by trainers, to ensure learners are receiving the best possible teaching and learning. IVs set best practice standards in centres. Full details of TQUK's requirements for Internal Verification can be found in the Centre Handbook. 11

12 Internal Verifier Requirements Internal verifiers must have relevant experience in delivering and/or assessing the subject they are internally verifying. This includes having a working knowledge of the requirements of the qualification, and a thorough knowledge and understanding of the role of tutors/assessors and internal quality assurance. They must support tutors and assessors in their delivery and assessment of a qualification. Internal verifiers should also observe assessments. All those who quality assure these qualifications internally must meet the requirements of the Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy ( Appendix 1) and Show at least two years experience out of the previous five years of working in confined spaces in suitable sectors such as wider utilities, oil & gas, mining, civil engineering, nuclear energy etc - this can include training or assessment in a vocational and occupational environment. The experience must include a thorough working knowledge of: Current confined spaces regulations; current National Occupational Standards (NOS) and ACOP s The dynamics producing the confined space. Nature and implications of hazards in confined spaces The range and function of gas monitoring The selection and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) which is common and currently used. The range and function of breathing apparatus associated with the relevant risk level. The operation and use of safe systems of work, including permits to work schemes. ii) Be able to demonstrate an ability to prepare assessment work sites and present instructions to assessment learners effectively. discriminate between safe and unsafe learner performance Hold one of the following qualifications or their recognised equivalent: o o o o o o o o Level 3 Award in Assessing Competence in the Work Environment or Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, or A1 Assess learner performance using a range of methods, or D32 Assess learner performance and D33 Assess learner using differing sources of evidence Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice, or Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice, or V1 Conduct internal quality assurance of the assessment process or D34 Internally verify the assessment process or 12

13 attend a CPD event for IVs held by TQUK Internal verifiers who do not hold one of the internal quality assurance qualifications listed above, must follow the principles set out in Learning and Development NOS 11 -Internally monitor and maintain the quality of assessment. External Quality Assurance/Verification External quality assurance (EQA) is carried out to ensure a centre is using valid, reliable, fair and ethical assessment and internal quality assurance processes. External quality assurers/verifiers (EVs) will be appointed by TQUK to approve a centre, and to monitor delivery, assessment and internal quality assurance. Annual EV visits are provided free, however, additional support visits can be requested at any time which will incur a charge. Additional support can include specific advice regarding particular qualification requirements, and/or assessment and internal quality assurance guidance. If centres have any specific qualification questions, they should contact TQUK. TQUK will make contact with a centre to arrange external quality assurance activities and may request information in advance of an EV visit. Malpractice & Maladministration Policy Definition of Malpractice Malpractice is any activity or practice which deliberately contravenes regulations and compromises the integrity of the internal or external assessment process and/or the validity of certificates. It covers any deliberate actions, neglect, default or other practice that compromises, or could compromise:- the assessment process the integrity of a regulated qualification the validity of a result or certificate the reputation and credibility of TQUK the qualification or the wider qualifications community Malpractice may include a range of issues from the failure to maintain appropriate records or systems to the deliberate falsification of records in order to claim certificates. It also covers misconduct and forms of unnecessary discrimination or bias towards certain or groups of learners. Definition of Maladministration Maladministration is any activity or practice which results in non-compliance with administrative regulations and requirements and includes the application of persistent mistakes or poor administration within a centre (e.g. inappropriate learner records) Centre s Responsibility It is important that centre staff involved in the management, assessment and quality assurance of TQUK qualifications, and learners, are fully aware of the contents of the policy and that centres have arrangements in place to prevent and investigate instances of malpractice and maladministration. 13

14 A failure to report suspected or actual malpractice/maladministration cases, or have in place effective arrangements to prevent such cases, may lead to sanctions being imposed on a centre (see TQUK s Sanctions Policy in the downloads section of the TQUK Management Suite for details of the sanctions that may be imposed). TQUK can provide centres with guidance/advice/support on how to prevent, investigate, and deal with malpractice and maladministration. A centre s compliance with this policy and how it takes reasonable steps to prevent and/or investigate instances of malpractice and maladministration, will be reviewed by TQUK periodically through ongoing centre monitoring arrangements. Should an investigation be undertaken into a centre, the head of centre must:- respond speedily and openly to all requests relating to the allegation and/or investigation cooperate and ensure that staff cooperate fully with any investigation and/or request for information. For full details of TQUK's policy on malpractice and maladministration, please refer to the homepage on the TQUK Management Suite. 14

15 The TQUK Management Suite Once a centre registers with TQUK they will be given a centre login to the Management Suite where they will enter their centre details. The TQUK Management Suite holds information regarding the centre approval process. The booking and management of a centre's qualifications with TQUK is user friendly and designed to help in the administration of qualifications. Centres will be able to register learners and course details via their homepage on the Management Suite. A centre will be able to register:- Course details Trainer/Tutor/Assessor and IV details Learner details Results for certification Training on the Management Suite will be given to a new centre, once approved. Useful Websites Health and Safety Executive Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation Register of Regulated Qualifications For further details regarding approval and funding eligibility please refer to the following websites: o Skills Funding Agency for public funding information for 19+ learners in England o LARA Learning Aim Reference Application for information on funding rates for qualifications in England. o DAQW Database of Approved Qualifications for public funding in Wales o Department for Employment and Learning or Department of Education for public funding in Northern Ireland. 15

16 Units of Assessment - Unit 1 Title: Emergency Rescue and Recovery of Casualties from Confined Spaces J/506/3815 Level: 3 Credit value: 2 Guided learning hours 16 Learning outcomes Assessment criteria The learner will: 1. Understand how to prepare to work safely in confined spaces under emergency conditions The learner can: 1.1 Explain the responsibilities of a rescue team and its individual members 1.2 Explain the responsibilities of managing work teams 1.3 Explain how to ensure the content of the emergency incident kit is complete 1.4 Describe how to use maps and technical drawings 1.5 Plan for dealing with potential fatalities 2. Be able to prepare to work safely in confined spaces under emergency conditions 2.1 Demonstrate how to arrange for all rescue equipment specified in the method statement to be on site before work begins 2.2 Set up and test communications systems before rescue and recovery begins 2.3 Confirm all team members know and understand their roles 2.4 Check all team members are in place with the appropriate PPE before entry begins 2.5 Demonstrate awareness of possible risks and hazards 2.6 Use tally boards for deploying rescue team members 3. Be able to enter and exit confined spaces safely 3.1 Demonstrate how to set up exclusion zones to prevent entry by unauthorised people 3.2 Demonstrate how to enter the confined space as 16

17 prescribed for emergencies and maintain a safe means of escape 3.3 Demonstrate how to exit the space in line with procedures for the confined space risk category 4. Be able to prepare and use appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) in accordance with manufacturers specifications 4.1 Follow procedures regarding the carrying and use of the respiratory protective equipment 4.2 Demonstrate how to confirm the suitability of the respiratory protective equipment for the job 4.3 Demonstrate how to carry out pre-use safety and user tests to confirm the respiratory protective equipment complies with current legislation, manufacturers specifications and approved codes of practice 4.4 Resolve any problems with the respiratory protective equipment and report non-conformities 4.5 Demonstrate how to fit and adjust the designated respiratory protective equipment 4.6 Wear the designated respiratory protective equipment to carry out work 4.7 Demonstrate how to continuously monitor the respiratory protective equipment during operation and use 5. Be able to use rescue equipment in accordance with manufacturers instructions 5.1 Confirm all equipment and tools are suitable for the job before using them 5.2 Confirm all personal protective equipment (PPE) is suitable and compatible with the respiratory protective equipment to be worn before using it 5.3 Demonstrate the specified method to introduce equipment and tools into the confined space 5.4 Demonstrate how to recover and remove equipment and tools when permitted 5.5 Follow manufacturers and employer s instructions for after use checks, cleaning, disinfection, decontamination and storage 5.6 Demonstrate how to carry out after use checks on the respiratory protective equipment after a safe exit 5.7 Take steps to maintain or repair faulty respiratory 17

18 protective equipment 5.8 Demonstrate how to return respiratory protective equipment after use to the supplier or manufacturer for specialist cleaning and restoration 5.9 Store respiratory protective equipment in designated storage ready for the next job 6.Follow procedures and work safely 6.1 Demonstrate ability to follow and maintain emergency procedures throughout the incident 6.2 Demonstrate ability to follow safe working procedures and manufacturers' equipment instructions 6.3 Demonstrate ability to act immediately to remedy any unsafe activity, equipment and environmental conditions 6.4 Demonstrate ability to regularly monitor atmospheric conditions within the confined space 6.5 Demonstrate ability to use appropriate PPE specified for the job 7.Control risks which arise during working 7.1 Demonstrate ability to move within the confined space in a way which minimises risk to self and does not cause further injury to the casualty 7.2 Demonstrate ability to prepare for and deal with weather conditions 7.3 Demonstrate ability to record environmental readings regularly and change the work activity to resolve problems shown by information from the monitoring equipment 7.4 Demonstrate ability to communicate regularly with the work team at all stages of the rescue and recovery 7.5 Demonstrate how to confirm emergency communication links are working and the team is ready for entry 8.Be able to deal with emergencies 8.1 Demonstrate how to confirm the emergency arrangements, procedures and communications systems are in place before entry 8.2 Demonstrate how to make the emergency arrangements known to all work team, support personnel and off-site personnel 8.3 Demonstrate how to arrange for rescue equipment to be on site and in place before allowing entry to confined 18

19 space 8.4 Demonstrate ability to put emergency equipment, casualty recovery and handling devices in designated places 8.5 Demonstrate how to start emergency procedures immediately on becoming aware of a dangerous situation 8.6 Demonstrate how to use emergency equipment and apparatus 8.7 Demonstrate how to put on PPE in response to emergency incident and check other team members comply with its wear and use 8.8 Demonstrate supervision of use of emergency equipment 9.1 Demonstrate ability to assess and prioritise casualties 9.Be able to recover casualties 9.2 Demonstrate recovery of casualties to surface in a way which minimises further injury 9.3 Demonstrate how to administer basic first aid to a recovered surface casualty 9.4 Explain how to use equipment to resuscitate casualties 10. Complete handover and reporting procedures 10.1 Demonstrate ability to record and report the emergency incident and its circumstances 10.2 Demonstrate procedure for handing over to emergency services 10.3 Demonstrate how to secure the site for post-incident investigation 10.4 Demonstrate ability to make reports and complete all documentation and deposit them with the designated people 10.5 Demonstrate how to maintain sites for investigations following emergency and rescue situations 10.6 Demonstrate use of incident logs throughout rescue operations Additional information about the unit Equivalent unit K/601/7405 Emergency Rescue and Recovery of Casualties 19

20 Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) Assessment requirements specified by a sector or regulatory body (if appropriate) The unit relates to Energy and Utility Skills Confined Spaces NOS including EUSCS03 This unit must be assessed in accordance with: Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy 20

21 Unit 2 Title: Working as Top Person in High Risk Confined Spaces M/506/3646 Level: 3 Credit value: 3 Guided learning hours 24 Learning outcomes Assessment criteria The learner will: 1. Be able to prepare to act as safety attendant for teams working in high risk confined spaces The learner can: 1.1 Demonstrate ability to interpret a work plan and arrange for the necessary equipment to be available 1.2 Demonstrate ability to arrange for all required equipment to be available prior to entering the site 1.3 Demonstrate how to check that risk assessment reflects site conditions before starting work 1.4 Demonstrate how to determine work team activities 1.5 Demonstrate how to organise and maintain a safety zone around the work site 1.6 Demonstrate how to confirm that communications systems are set up, tested and are working before team move away from the entry point 2 Be able to prepare team for working in confined spaces 2.1 Demonstrate how to put together a competent work team 2.2 Allocate activities to each team role 2.3 Confirm all team members know and understand their roles 2.4 Brief the team on the nature of the specific confined space 3 Be able tooversee safe entry and exit to confined spaces 3.1 Demonstrate how to check atmospheric conditions are safe before the work team enters the confined space 3.2 Demonstrate how to oversee and check the work team enter and exit in line with procedures 3.3 Demonstrate how to make sure procedures regarding the carrying and use of appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) are followed 21

22 3.4 Demonstrate how to make sure the work team use the detection equipment and entry equipment correctly 3.5 Demonstrate how to oversee recovery of equipment and tools from site when work is finished 3.6 Demonstrate how to control access of people and vehicles around the entry point 4 Be able to monitor work team to ensure procedures are followed 4.1 Demonstrate how to resolve any problems connected to the work or team members with the designated personnel 4.2 Act immediately to remedy any unsafe activity, equipment and environmental conditions 4.3 Monitor continuously the work team and ensure compliance with procedures 4.4 Monitor environmental readings regularly and respond to information from monitoring equipment 4.5 Communicate regularly with the work team at all stages of the work 4.6 Demonstrate how to initiate site hygiene procedures 5. Be able to prepare for emergencies 5.1 Demonstrate how to confirm the emergency arrangements procedures and communications systems are in place and working properly 5.2 Demonstrate how to make the emergency arrangements known to all work team, support personnel and off-site personnel 5.3 Explain the responsibilities of a rescue team and its individual members 5.4 Demonstrate how to prepare and use: Escape breathing apparatus Self-contained breathing apparatus 5.5 Demonstrate ability to get all rescue equipment on site as specified in emergency situations 6. Be able to deal with emergencies 6.1 Demonstrate how to set up exclusion zones to prevent entry by unauthorised people following emergency situations 6.2 Demonstrate how to arrange for rescue equipment to be in place before allowing entry to confined space 22

23 6.3 Demonstrate how to arrange for basic first aid to be available to recovered surface casualties 6.4 Demonstrate how to start emergency procedures immediately a dangerous situation arises 6.5 Demonstrate ability to supervise exit procedures 6.6 Demonstrate how to maintain control over work team members during an emergency 6.7 Demonstrate ability to follow and maintain emergency procedures throughout the incident 7. Be able to hand over and conclude incident 7.1 Demonstrate how to hand over to emergency services 7.2 Demonstrate how to close down and make the work area safe when work is finished 7.2 Demonstrate how to record and report the emergency incident and its circumstances 7.3 Demonstrate how to secure and maintain sites for postrescue investigations 7.4 Make reports and complete all documentation and deposit them with the designated people Additional information about the unit Details of the relationship between the unit and relevant national occupational standards (if appropriate) Assessment requirements specified by a sector or regulatory body (if appropriate) The unit relates to Energy and Utility Skills Confined Spaces NOS This unit must be assessed in accordance with Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy 23

24 Appendix 1 - Proskills QCF Assessment Strategy October 2012 Introduction This Assessment Strategy is designed to cover the following NOS based qualifications at all levels: Building Products Precast Concrete Performing Building Products Operations Glazed Ceramics Manufacturing Glazed Ceramics Glass Fenestration Installation and Surveying Glass Related Operations Glass Processing Glass Manufacturing Glazing Installation of Domestic Fascias, Soffits and Bargeboards Production of Glass Supporting Fabrications Solar Thermal/Photovoltaic Panel Installation and Surveying Print Digital Print Production Machine Printing Print Management and Administration Print Finishing and Converting Envelope Manufacture Print Administration Paper 24

25 Fibreboard Operations Wood Engineered Wood Saw Milling Wood Merchants Generic Combined Working Practices Health and Safety This Assessment Strategy is designed to supplement the guidance issued by the Regulatory Authorities, including the Additional Regulatory Requirements for Qualifications of the Type NVQ within the QCF, and guidance issued by Awarding Bodies. This document is designed to be a core set of assessment practices. There may be specific annexes that apply to certain of the above awards (see above). Section 1: Simulation Simulation is generally not acceptable. The exceptions to this are: Dealing with emergencies Dealing with accidents Certain pre-approved real time simulators Limited other procedures that cannot be practically performed in the workplace, and for which sufficient evidence cannot be collected through other means. Any simulation must be approved in advance by the External Verifier, and clear reasons must be given for its intended use If approval is given, all Awarding Body guidance and requirements must be observed Simulation should not be the primary source of a learner s claim to competence Section 2: Expertise of Witnesses, Assessors and Verifiers Third party 'witnesses' must also be competent to make judgements about the activity(ies) for which they are providing the testimony. As the assessment decision lies with the Assessor, it is their responsibility to verify this and, where challenged, to justify their acceptance of third party 'witness testimony' to the Internal Verifier. Assessors must: Be registered and recognised by an approved centre Be competent to make qualitative judgements about the units they are assessing. Illustrations of competence could include the assessor: Having achieved the award themselves 25

26 Having substantial demonstrable experience in the job roles they are assessing Being in a day-to-day line management or quality assurance role with responsibility for the job roles they are assessing Be in possession of or working towards the A1/A2 award or hold the D32/33 award, Carry out their duties in accordance with the current NOS for Assessment, and in line with current guidance on assessment practice issued by the regulatory authorities and the appropriate Awarding Body Maintain appropriate evidence of development activities to ensure their assessment skills and occupational understanding are current (CPD) Have a working knowledge of awards and a full understanding of that part of the award for which they have responsibility. The Awarding Body will confirm this through examination of relevant CVs supported by relevant references. Be approved by the Awarding Body who must maintain records demonstrating how they meet the assessment strategy. The appointment of Assessors may require the prior approval of the Awarding Body. Meet any additional requirements as specified in the award specific annex. Meet any additional requirements as specified by the awarding body Internal Verifiers must: Be registered and recognised by an approved centre Be in possession of or working towards the V1 award or hold the D34 award, as recommended by SQA/QCA and supported by an appropriate CPD record Carry out their duties in accordance with the current NOS for Verification, and in line with current guidance on verification practice issued by the regulatory authorities and the appropriate Awarding Body Maintain appropriate evidence of development activities to ensure their verification skills and occupational understanding are current (CPD) Have expertise and knowledge of awards and a full understanding of that part of the award for which they have responsibility. The Awarding Body will confirm this through examination of relevant CVs supported by relevant references. Be approved by the Awarding Body who must maintain records demonstrating how they meet the assessment strategy. The appointment of Internal Verifiers may require the prior approval of the Awarding Body. Meet any additional requirements as specified in the award specific annex. Meet any additional requirements as specified by the awarding body External Verifiers must: Be registered and recognised by an approved Awarding Body Be familiar with and/or experienced in the relevant sector and/or context to be able to verify that learner evidence has met the National Occupational Standards and the requirements of the appropriate Awarding Body. Be in possession of or be working towards the V2 or hold the D35 External Verifier Award. To be achieved within 12 months of registration in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Carry out their duties in accordance with the current National Occupational Standards for Assessment and Verification and current guidance on best verification practice issued by the regulatory authorities and appropriate Awarding Body. Maintain appropriate evidence of development activities to ensure their verification skills and occupational awareness are current (CPD) 26

27 Meet any additional requirements as specified in the award specific annex. Not work with any centre in which they have a personal or financial interest. Meet any additional requirements as specified by the awarding body Section 3: Evidence and Location of Assessment Evidence The majority of the Learner s evidence should come from direct observations of competence in the real workplace, unless specified in the award specific annex. Other types of acceptable evidence include, but are not limited to: Witness Testimony (Details of acceptable witnesses are found in Section 2: Expertise of Verifiers, Witnesses and Assessors ) Logs/Diaries kept by Learners Recorded answers to questions posed by the Assessor Recorded/Transcribed Interviews with the Learner Recorded use of up-to-date commercial/industrial equipment e-portfolios and other forms of digital media Works documentation attributable to the learner Both interim and final internal verification. Location of Assessment Although the majority of the Learner s evidence should come from direct observations of competence in the real work place, in exceptional circumstances simulation of the real workplace may be allowed. Occasions in which this may be approved are listed under Section1: Simulation. Section 4: Enhanced Quality Control The External Quality Control will be through enhanced external verification and enhanced internal verification the latter moderated or monitored by the External Verifier. Enhanced Internal Verification Strategy All Internal Verifiers must provide evidence of having verified: Evidence supporting any key units (where specified in the award specific guidance) and evidence supporting at least one other unit from the award OR The evidence supporting at least two distinct units (or as documented in the Award Specific Guidance) for each award per annum. As well as: 27

28 All evidence from all simulations/simulators Over time, an example of each unit the Assessor is qualified to assess Over time, an example of each assessment method used in the centre Evidence of internal verification Enhanced External Verification Strategy External Verifiers must carry out regular risk assessments and subsequent statistical analysis for each of the centres for which they have verification responsibilities. Where problems are identified through this procedure, the External Verifier will take further measures to ensure that the centre is performing to an acceptable level. This could include, but should not be limited to: Verifying a representative sample of learners work from each Assessor, covering all Assessors in the centre over an agreed period of time, including: Evidence supporting any key units from the award (where specified in the award specific guidance) Selected evidence supporting distinct units identified by the External Verifier in response to issues raised through risk assessment All evidence from all simulations Verifying selected evidence of Internal Verification procedures identified by the External Verifier in response to issues raised through risk assessment Externally-set banks of questions and answers that will test the presence of essential knowledge and understanding for selected Learners 28

29 Appendix 2 - Centre Requirements Document Introduction The two defining features of a confined space, according to regulation, are 1) The space is enclosed and 2) The presence of a specified risk. Upon identifying a confined space a person(s) must undertake a risk assessment to determine the nature of specified hazards that could be encountered and the probability of encountering them. This will then lead to the classification of the confined space at low, medium or high risk and trigger the use of equipment and procedures appropriate to the confined space environment. The risk levels: Low Risk A low risk confined space exists where there is easy entry/exit and natural ventilation. The learner will check the atmosphere by introducing a gas monitor into the confined space. This will not alarm if it is safe to enter. If the gas monitor alarm is triggered prior to entry, the learner must not enter and notify immediately an appropriate person. If a gas monitor alarm is triggered while working in a low risk confined space, the learner must exit the confined space immediately and notify the relevant person. Low risk confined spaces could be associated with lone working, requiring the application of appropriate procedures. This qualification must be assessed in a low risk environment. For standardisation in assessment please ensure that a confined space is used that meets the water industry NC1 setting. NC1 Low risk shallow entry with adequate natural or mechanical ventilation, where access is simple and unobstructed and there is no likely risk of flooding e.g. meter pits, valve chambers, booster-pumping stations, PRV chambers. Additional low risk NC1 assessment characteristics Not deeper than 3 metres, with an unobstructed vertical lift. Straight ladder into a dark chamber. Learners should be able to stay on lifeline to complete the task. During completion of the task the learners should not move to a position where if they collapsed the retrieval equipment would not operate. Centres should encourage this type of error to see if learners are aware of their surroundings. Fall arrest and retrieval equipment should be necessary. The task allocated should be realistic and intensive enough to distract a learner from Health and Safety matters whilst at the same time not exposing them to dangers. 29