This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to propel and operate light on-track equipment as part of workplace activities across a variety of rail operational contexts.

It includes performing pre-operational equipment checks, obtaining approval to place equipment on-track, operating light equipment on-track and stabling or moving equipment off track.

Light on-track equipment is considered to be less than 10 tonnes that may be lifted on or off track mechanically and may include:

• ballast scarifiers
• dog screw setters/drivers
• joint lifters
• multi-spindle borers
• power track jacks
• profile grinders
• rail-mounted compressors
• small sleeper spacers
• spike drivers
• spike pullers (ride on)
• various fastening applicators.

Light on-track equipment requires a basic operator skill level in manipulation, coordination, alignment and functional activity, with little complexity or variance in overall activity. This typically covers equipment carrying out basic repetitive and alignment type activities.

People achieving competence in this unit will need to fulfil the applicable state/territory legislated rail safety requirements, to comply with relevant codes of practice and/or guidelines, and to meet organisational requirements to operate each individual piece of equipment.

Operators will need to have fulfilled licence and/or certification requirements for the type of equipment being used.