This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to weld rail using the aluminothermic welding process in accordance with safeworking and regulatory requirements, and workplace procedures.

It includes preparing and planning the welding method, preparing the rail for aluminothermic welding, carrying out the welding process, checking weld conformance and completing required documentation.

People achieving competence in this unit will need to fulfil the applicable state/territory legislated rail safety and to comply with relevant codes of practice and/or guidelines.

Work is performed under some supervision, generally within a team environment. It involves the application of routine operational principles and procedures when welding rail using the aluminothermic welding technique, as part of workplace activities across a variety of operational contexts within the Australian rail system.

Operators of mechanised equipment must have undertaken training and, where appropriate, hold the relevant licence, permit or certificate and be recognised as competent for the class of machinery being used.