Assessment material

The qualifications focus on what is expected of a competent OHS practitioner in the workplace as an outcome of learning, rather than focusing on the learning process itself.  Each unit of competency reflects a discrete job function, work role or work area.  The standard is set by defining the work outcomes (referred to as elements of competency) to be met in demonstrating the competency.  This is measured by defined performance specifications (performance criteria). 

Assessment is the process of checking your evidence to ensure you are able to perform to the standards expected in the workplace as detailed in the elements and performance criteria.

Evidence is gathered as you complete the learning guide case studies and activities. When you have completed the learning guide you may wish to contact a participating RTO who will, for a fee, be able to have your competency assessed by a qualified assessor and subject expert.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

If before commencing the learning guide you feel you may already be able to provide evidence that you meet the performance criteria for a unit, you should discuss this with your participating RTO as all registered training organisations are required to offer recognition of prior learning (RPL).

The RPL process can be used effectively to identify gaps, which you can fill by completing specific activities in the learning guide.  

Assessment portfolio

It is best to use a loose-leaf folder with subsections. The activities and the integrated project should be presented to a professional standard. You need to provide enough detail to enable an assessor to decide whether you have achieved competency.

Third party (manager/mentor) report

A mentor, or an appropriate third party familiar with your work, can help provide an independent evaluation of your ability to work consistently and effectively at the required level. A copy of the third party report is included in the assessment section at the back of each learning guide. You will need to discuss this aspect with your participating RTO.

Interview questions

Your Assessment Portfolio of evidence will need to be reviewed before the interview. This will allow the assessor to evaluate the material and decide if additional evidence is required.

The interview provides an opportunity for your assessor to clear up areas of uncertainty and finalise your assessment outcomes. To ensure comparability of assessment, all assessors will use the same set of questions as the basis of the interview. However, you should expect your assessor to ask follow-up questions and also ask specific questions related to your Assessment Portfolio and your workplace. The interview questions are set out in the assessment section at the back of each learning guide.