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This learning resource is devoted to the study of pests, diseases and disorders in horticulture and conservation and land management. Whatever area of horticulture or conservation and land management you are interested in – be it nursery production, nursery retail, landscape construction, turf or garden maintenance, revegetation, or natural area management – pests and diseases are certain to be a problem you will have to deal with. The first step in control of pests, diseases or disorders is planning.

This competency standard covers the process of cleaning machinery of material that may contribute to the spread of weeds, pests or diseases. It requires the ability to prepare for cleaning, carry out thorough cleaning of equipment and the appropriate disposal of waste. Cleaning is likely to be carried out under routine supervision and may involve operating in a team environment. Cleaning machinery of plant, animal and soil material requires knowledge of machinery and equipment operating features and major components, inspection points and procedures required by legislation, and how weeds, pests or diseases can spread through soil, animal or plant materials.

This competency standard covers the functions involved in operating specialised machinery and equipment. It requires particular skills and knowledge to operate specialised agricultural, horticultural or conservation and land management machinery. An ability to perform pre-operational checks on machinery, assess work requirements, determine work plans, monitor performance and maintain records is also required. In addition, it requires knowledge of licensing requirements, workplace safety and positive environmental practices associated with the operation of machinery. Judgement and discretion combined with the ability to work under minimal supervision is necessary.