Advances in Woodmachining and Sawdoctoring Project
Menu: Click across the green arrows to view active and completed project stages. Consultation takes place at every stage of the project.Case for change
Advances in woodmachining and sawdoctoring were identified as key skill priorities in the 2018-2021 Forest and Wood Products IRC Skills Forecast and Proposed Schedule of Work (see pages 63-66). In addressing these skill needs, this project will review the Certificate III in Woodmachining and the Certificate III in
Sawdoctoring, and 46 units of competency. Skills Impact and the Timber and Wood Processing Industry Reference Committee (IRC) will manage this project, consistent with the 2012 Standards for Training Package Development.
Project Plan
Project Scope
This project will assess the current skills requirements for wood machinists and sawdoctors as a result of technological advancements and a business imperative to operate in a competitive environment. This project will result in revised woodmachining and sawdoctoring qualifications, which underpin industry’s apprenticeships and traineeships programs for these trades. The qualifications will be reviewed so that they reflect all job functions, as well as current skills and knowledge requirements.
Scroll down to view the list of qualifications and units of competency that support the wood machinist and sawdoctor job role and will be reviewed in this project.
Register your interest in the projectSubscribe to the Skills Impact newsletter to keep informed about project updates and opportunities to provide input and feedback. Make sure to select ‘Forestry and Timber’ as your industry of interest on the subscription form. |
Relevant Occupations
- Sawdoctors
- Wood Machinists
Key deliverables
The project will review 2 qualifications, the Certificate III in Woodmachining and the Certificate III in Sawdoctoring, and 46 units of competency listed for these qualifications. A qualification for new entrants at Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 2 may also be developed
Timeline
July – August 2018
Initial scoping
August – December 2019
Development of draft qualifications and units of competency
(Technical Advisory Committee Consultations)
January – February 2019
Drafts available for broad consultation
March 2019
Validation of final drafts
April – June 2019
Finalisation of Training Package components and AISC submission
Project Team
Georgiana Daian | Head of Skills Standards Development, ForestWorks [email protected] |
Michelle Clayton | Industry Skills Standards Specialist, ForestWorks [email protected] |
Rob Stowell | Industry Skills Standards Contractor |
Qualifications and units
Below is a list of the qualifications and units proposed for revision.
Qualifications that may be developed as part of this project include (but are not limited to):
Woodmachining units that may be developed as part of this project include (but are not limited to):
- FWPCOT2205 Tail out materials
- FWPCOT2207 Dress boards and timber
- FWPCOT2208 Resaw boards and timber
- FWPCOT2212 Grade hardwood sawn and milled products
- FWPCOT2213 Grade softwood sawn and milled products
- FWPCOT2214 Grade cypress sawn and milled products
- FWPCOT2215 Visually stress grade hardwood
- FWPCOT2216 Visually stress grade softwood
- FWPCOT2217 Visually stress grade cypress
- FWPCOT2224 Band edges of panels
- FWPCOT3205 Dress boards using multi-headed machines
- FWPCOT3207 Set up, operate and maintain finger jointing operations
- FWPCOT3209 Set up, operate and maintain end matching operations
- FWPCOT3244 Cut material to profile
- FWPTMM2202 Machine material
- FWPTMM3201 Convert timber
- FWPTMM3202 Manufacture using joinery machines
- FWPTMM3203 Estimate and cost job
- FWPWPP2210 Cut panels to profile
Sawdoctoring units that may be developed as part of this project include (but are not limited to):
- FWPCOT3211 Maintain sawdoctoring tools
- FWPCOT3215 Swage and shape saw blades
- FWPSAW3207 Sharpen band saws
- FWPSAW3209 Align sawing production systems
- FWPSAW3211 Recondition guides
- FWPSAW3212 Sharpen tipped circular saws
- FWPSAW3214 Join band saw blades
- FWPSAW3217 Hard face saw teeth
- FWPSAW3219 Replace stellite tips
- FWPSAW3220 Maintain wide band saw blades
- FWPSAW3221 Profile saw blanks
- FWPSAW3222 Recondition band mill wheels
- FWPSAW3225 Maintain frame saw blades
Common units that may be developed as part of this project include (but are not limited to):
- FWPCOT3201 Hand sharpen knives and blades
- FWPCOT3210 Sharpen cutting tools
- FWPCOT3212 Replace saws, blades and guides
- FWPCOT3213 Manufacture cutting tools
- FWPCOT3216 Assess and maintain saw performance
- FWPCOT3217 Assess and maintain cutter performance
- FWPCOT3233 Sharpen and align blades and knives
- FWPCOT3237 Produce templates
- FWPCOT3247 Select timber for forestry operations
- FWPSAW3208 Sharpen circular saws
- FWPSAW3210 File and set saws
- FWPSAW3213 Level and tension circular saws
- FWPSAW3218 Replace tungsten tips
- FWPSAW3228 Apply principles of blade design to sawing procedures
Opportunities for stakeholder input
Stakeholder input is appreciated throughout the duration of this project. The documents will be drafted in consultation with the TAC and their networks. Opportunities to provide targeted feedback will occur when the draft materials are made available in January and February 2019, and again for validation of final drafts in March 2019. However, your feedback is welcomed at any time, and will help us in drafting the units. It is important that training provides a skilled and flexible workforce for the future. The units need to reflect real work experience. So if you work in the sector, Skills Impact would love your input and help. Please feel free to register your interest for project updates and consultation opportunities by following the newsletter subscription link below. Alternatively, please feel free to contact us.
The Timber and Wood Processing Industry Reference Committee (IRC) will oversee this project, as part of their responsibilities to support engagement with the sector, and to ensure the project meets industry stakeholder needs.
Development
In late August 2018, this project commenced with the establishment of a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) with a focus on reviewing the Certificate III in Sawdoctoring and the Certificate III in Woodmachining. TAC members met and supported a series of site visits to identify skills needs and gaps regarding saw doctoring and wood machining occupations. Following this feedback and consultations with the TAC, work has begun on reviewing the two qualifications and updating the associated units of competency.
The following development activities have taken place for this project:
- A new occupation title and qualification name have been suggested for the sawdoctors. The proposed occupation title is Saw Technician and the recommended qualification name is the Certificate III in Saw Technology. The rationale for this change is that the job role has evolved. In addition to providing traditional services related to maintenance of circular and band saws, sawdoctors are often involved in inspecting, testing, maintaining and troubleshooting mechanical components on sawing machine centres to achieve sawing production rates and product tolerances. Modern sawdoctors may also work with other technical staff on developing and reviewing suggestions for improving timber recovery.
- Feedback has suggested that the application of basic knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems be included in both qualifications to cover the skill needs for troubleshooting mechanical components on sawing machine centres. Further, the technical experts have suggested skill sets that offer high-level troubleshooting and process improvement skills and a career pathway to these occupations.
- Three new units have been proposed for development to support the skills required by Saw Doctors (or Saw Technicians). The proposed new units are:
- FWPSAWXXXX Set up, align and maintain sawing machines to achieve sawing requirements
- FWPSAWXXXX Identify levelling and tensioning requirements for saw blades
- FWPSAWXXXX Operate CNC equipment for grinding, tensioning and levelling saw blades.
- All units for review have been checked for compliance with 2012 Standards for Training Packages. The consultations conducted to date have indicated that a number of units will need to be restructured to reflect more accurately contemporary job functions, machine operations and maintenance requirements.
Technical Advisory Committee
Organisation | Representative |
AKD Softwoods | Ashley Britton |
Timber Training Creswick | Charlie Read |
Phoenix Supply Company Pty Ltd | Chris Carre |
AKD Softwoods | Christian Gibbs |
Workspace Training | David McElvenny |
Inglewood Products Group | Carlo Gosatti |
One Forty One | Emma-Kate Griffiths |
Hyne Timber | Garry Elliott |
Timberlink | Joel Langham |
SA Pine | Luke Riches |
AKD Softwoods | Matthew Laity |
One Forty One | Neil Hunter |
Independent Consultant | Peter Mikelsen |
Timber Training Creswick | Steve Archer |
AKD Softwoods | Steve Baudinette |
Boral Timber | Steve Kostiuk |
Britton Timbers | Stuart Gale |
CFMMEU | Travis Lawson |
Food, Fibre & Timber Industries | Trevor Hislop |
Register your interest in the projectSubscribe to the Skills Impact newsletter to keep informed about project updates and opportunities to provide input and feedback. Make sure to select ‘Forestry and Timber’ as your industry of interest on the subscription form. |
Drafts Available
Thank you to all those who provided feedback on the draft qualifications and units of competency. Two draft qualifications, 10 new units of competency (six of which have been developed across this project and the Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project) and 39 revised units were available for review and feedback on this webpage, from 21 January – 20 February 2019. Sixteen units (9 within the project scope and 7 outside the project scope) were also proposed for removal from the two revised qualifications.
Feedback was sought on whether the draft qualifications and units reflect current job roles, industry skills standards, knowledge and practices and whether all job functions are accurately described. Feedback will inform the work on the final drafts which will be available for industry validation in late February 2019.
Summary of consultation to date
Feedback on the draft documents was collected via the online feedback hub, face-to-face consultation workshops and webinars. To view the draft documents, including comments that were made on them from people using the feedback hub, please click on the expandable document menus below.
The project commenced in late August 2018 with the establishment of a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), made up of workplace experts and industry. TAC members met and supported a series of site visits to identify skills needs and gaps regarding saw doctoring and wood machining occupations. Following this feedback and in consultation with the TAC, work carried out on the development of the draft qualifications and units.
Qualifications
The existing qualifications, have undergone a major review. Changes to the drafts include a new title for one qualification, new units of competency added to the qualifications, units of competency removed from the qualifications, units of competency imported from other training packages, and revised units of competency. The draft qualifications are available to view via the links below.
Qualification name | Proposed Changes | Link |
Certificate III in Saw Technology (previously Certificate III in Sawdoctoring ) |
| View qualification |
Certificate III in Wood Machining |
| View qualification |
Units
Four new units of competency have been developed to support processes and advanced technology for levelling and tensioning sawblades, and an efficient operation of production sawing machines in sawmills. The draft new units are available to view via the links below.
FWPCOT3XXX Identify levelling and tensioning requirements for saw blades | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Operate CNC equipment for grinding, tensioning and levelling saw blades | View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and operate production saws used in sawmill operations | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Load and prove operating program for computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine | View unit |
Six new units have been also developed for operating timber optimisation technology and applying principles of timber and process optimisation in sawmills, including knowledge of timber properties and processing capabilities. These have been developed in conjunction with the Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project. The draft new units are available to view via the links below.
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of timber properties, sawmill operations and sawmilling | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Apply principles of timber and process optimisation in sawmill operations | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Calibrate and maintain scanning equipment | View unit |
FWPSAW4XXX Monitor output timber for optimum volume and value recovery | View unit |
FWPSAW4XXX Optimise timber production for volume and value recovery | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Use scanning equipment for timber grading | View unit |
Feedback was also sought on the placement of new units within qualifications the Forest and Wood Products Training Package. The new units are proposed to be listed on the sawmilling and processing, wood machining and saw technology qualifications as shown here.
Proposed new units | Qualifications | ||||
FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing | FWP30316 Certificate III in Sawmilling and Processing | FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Wood Machining | FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Saw Technology | FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing | |
FWPCOT3XXX Identify levelling and tensioning requirements for saw blades | Elective | Elective | Elective | ||
FWPCOT3XXX Operate CNC equipment for grinding, tensioning and levelling saw blades | Elective | Elective | |||
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and operate production saws used in sawmill operations | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Load and prove operating program for computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Apply principles for timber and process optimisation in sawmill operations | Elective | Elective | Elective | ||
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of timber properties, sawmill operations and sawmilling equipment | Elective | Elective | Core | Core | |
FWPSAW4XXX Optimise timber production for volume and value recovery | Elective | ||||
FWPSAW4XXX Monitor output timber for optimum volume and value recovery | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Use scanning equipment for timber grading | Elective | Elective | |||
FWPCOT3XXX Calibrate and maintain scanning equipment | Elective | Elective |
Forty-one existing units of competency have been revised to meet the skill needs and compliance with the standards for training packages. Summary of changes made to these units is outlined below. Additional chances across the units also include updates to the workplace health and safety requirements and foundation skills, rewording application statement for clarifying the intent of the unit and other minor edits for improving clarity of statements.
Certificate III in Saw Technology Units
The revised units are available to view via the links below.
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT3XXX Assess and maintain saw technology tools |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3215 Swage and shape saw blades | Minor edits | View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen band saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3209 Align sawing production systems |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Recondition saw guides |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen tipped circular saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3214 Join band saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3219 Replace stellite tips |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Assess and maintain wide band saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Assess and maintain band saw wheels |
| View unit |
Certificate III in Wood Machining Units
The revised units are available to view via the links below.
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT2XXX Tail out timber product and waste material |
| View unit |
FWPCOT2XXX Operate and maintain a thicknesser |
| View unit |
FWPCOT2212 Grade hardwood sawn and milled products | Minor edits | View unit |
FWPCOT2213 Grade softwood sawn and milled products | Minor edits | View unit |
FWPCOT2214 Grade cypress sawn and milled products | Minor edits | View unit |
FWPCOT2215 Visually stress grade hardwood | Reworded knowledge evidence | View unit |
FWPCOT2216 Visually stress grade softwood | Reworded knowledge evidence | View unit |
FWPCOT2217 Visually stress grade cypress | Reworded knowledge evidence | View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and run multi-head moulder/planer to produce simple profiles | Original unit FWPCOT3205 Dress boards using multi-headed machines has been replaced with 2 redrafted units of competency to break down the previous broad job function into defined skills. | View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and run multi-head moulder to produce complex profiles | View unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Setup, operate and maintain finger jointing machines |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Set up, operate and maintain end matching machines |
| View unit |
Common Units of Competency
The revised units are available to view via the links below.
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT2XXX Operate and maintain a table saw | Updated unit title as suggested Minor edits | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Hand sharpen knives and blades for commercial and domestic cutting services |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters using a straight knife grinder | Original unit FWPCOT3210 Sharpen cutting tools has been replaced with 3 redrafted units of competency to break down the previous broad job function into defined skills. The 3 redrafted units cover different applications and methods for sharpening cutters (in cutter head or without cutter head), with each involving the use of distinct types of machines and complexities (profile knife grinder and straight knife grinder). | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters in head using a profile knife grinder | View unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters in head using a straight knife grinder | View unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Replace saw blades, knives and guides |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Manufacture profile cutters |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Assess and maintain saw blade and sawing machine performance |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3217 Assess and maintain cutter performance |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen and position blades or knives in chipper, canter and reducer |
| View unit |
FWPCOT3237 Produce templates | Minor edits | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of wood technology principles to end-use applications |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen circular saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX File and set saw blades for hand saws and circular saws |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Level and tension circular saw blades |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3218 Replace tungsten tips |
| View unit |
FWPSAW3228 Apply principles of blade design to sawing procedures |
| View unit |
The units are available to view via the links below.
Three existing units of competency are proposed for removal from Certificate III in Saw Technology as they are no longer relevant to the current job requirements.
FWPSAW3217 Hard face saw teeth | View unit |
FWPSAW3221 Profile saw blanks | View unit |
FWPSAW3225 Maintain frame saw blades | View unit |
Thirteen existing units of competency are proposed for removal from Certificate III in Wood Machining as these competencies are no longer relevant to the current sawmill environments.
Units Within the Project Scope
FWPCOT3244 Cut material to profile | View unit |
FWPSAW3210 File and set saws | View unit |
FWPSAW3226 Saw logs using CNC optimising systems | View unit |
FWPTMM2202 Machine material | View unit |
FWPTMM3201 Convert timber | View unit |
FWPTMM3202 Manufacture using joinery machines | View unit |
Units outside the project scope
FWPCOT2224 Band edges of panels | View unit |
FWPCOT2232 Cut material to shape using a saw | View unit |
FWPCOT3234 Cut material using CNC sizing machines | View unit |
FWPCOT3235 Machine material using CNC machining and processing centres | View unit |
FWPTMM3203 Estimate and cost job | View unit |
FWPTMM4203 Install and commission CNC software | View unit |
FWPWPP2210 Cut panels to profile | View unit |
Four units of competency are proposed for being listed on FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing to broaden accessibility for a school based pre-apprenticeship program for Wood Machinists and Saw Doctors (or Saw Technicians). The units are available to view via the links below.
FWPCOT3XXX Hand sharpen knives and blades for commercial and domestic cutting services | View unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters using a straight knife grinder | View unit |
FWPSAW3219 Replace stellite tips | View unit |
MEM05006C Perform brazing and/or silver soldering (We are seeking your views about the suitability of this unit for FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing. Skills Impact cannot make any physical changes to this unit as this is beyond our remit.) | View unit |
Eight units of competency including relevant prerequisites from the MEM Manufacturing and Engineering Training Package are proposed for being listed on the FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing to offer a career pathway to Saw Doctors (or Saw Technicians) through high-level skills in troubleshooting hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Note that all additional MEM prerequisite units have been listed on the Certificate III in Saw Technology.
These units are listed below. Please note that Skills Impact cannot make any physical changes to these units as this is beyond our remit.
MEM18019B Maintain pneumatic systems | View unit |
MEM18018C Maintain pneumatic system components | View unit |
MEM18021B Maintain hydraulic systems | View unit |
MEM18020B Maintain hydraulic system components | View unit |
MEM18071B Connect/disconnect fluid conveying system components | View unit |
MEM18003 Use tools for precision work | Unit not yet published |
MEM18006 Perform precision fitting of engineering components | View unit |
MEM14006 Plan work activities | Unit not yet published |
Register your interest in the projectSubscribe to the Skills Impact newsletter to keep informed about project updates and opportunities to provide input and feedback. Make sure to select ‘Forestry and Timber’ as your industry of interest on the subscription form. |
Validation
Thank you to those who participated in the validation process for the final draft units of competency. The documents were made available on the Skills Impact website from 25 February – 11 March 2019.
The final drafts will shortly progress through to the Finalisation stage of the project which includes quality assurance of the documents and review and feedback from the State/Territory Training Authorities. They will then be forwarded to the Timber and Wood Processing Industry Reference Committee for consideration and sign off, before being submitted to the Australian Industry and Skills Committee (AISC) to consider and approve for publication on training.gov.au.
Validation means checking and confirming that the documents are logical and factually accurate.
Summary of consultation to date
Prior to the Validation period, the draft units of competency were made available on this webpage for broad stakeholder review, from 21 January – 15 February 2018, under the ‘Drafts Available’ stage menu above. Feedback on the draft documents was collected via an online feedback hub, emails and consultation with industry stakeholders. The qualifications and units were drafted with guidance from a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), made up of workplace experts and industry.
A description of how feedback from the ‘Drafts Available’ stage has been considered and applied in these final drafts can be downloaded below.
Qualifications
The existing qualifications, have undergone a major review. Changes to the drafts include a new title for one qualification, new units of competency added to the qualifications, units of competency removed from the qualifications, units of competency imported from other training packages, and revised units of competency.
The draft qualifications can be viewed via the links below or click here to download a zipped folder of all units in this group.
Qualification name | Proposed Changes | Link |
FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Saw Technology (previously Certificate III in Sawdoctoring ) |
| Download final draft qualification |
FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Wood Machining |
| Download final draft qualification |
Units
Four new units of competency have been developed to support processes and advanced technology for levelling and tensioning sawblades, and an efficient operation of production sawing machines in sawmills.
The draft new units can be viewed via the links below or click here to download a zipped folder of all units in this group.
FWPCOT3XXX Identify levelling and tensioning requirements for saw blades | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Operate CNC equipment for grinding, tensioning and levelling saw blades | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and operate production saws used in sawmill operations | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Load and prove operating program for computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine | Download final draft unit |
Six new units have also been developed for operating timber optimisation technology and applying principles of timber and process optimisation in sawmills, including knowledge of timber properties and processing capabilities. These have been developed in conjunction with the Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project.
The draft new units can be viewed via the links below or click here to download a zipped folder of all units in this group.
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of timber properties, sawmill operations and sawmilling | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Apply principles of timber and process optimisation in sawmill operations | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Calibrate and maintain scanning equipment | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW4XXX Monitor output timber for optimum volume and value recovery | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW4XXX Optimise timber production for volume and value recovery | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Use scanning equipment for timber grading | Download final draft unit |
Feedback is also sought on the placement of these new units within qualifications in the FWP Forest and Wood Products Training Package. The new units are proposed to be listed on the sawmilling and processing, wood machining and saw technology qualifications as shown here.
Proposed new units | Qualifications | ||||
FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing | FWP30316 Certificate III in Sawmilling and Processing | FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Wood Machining | FWP3XXXX Certificate III in Saw Technology | FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing | |
FWPCOT3XXX Identify levelling and tensioning requirements for saw blades | Elective | Elective | Elective | ||
FWPCOT3XXX Operate CNC equipment for grinding, tensioning and levelling saw blades | Elective | Elective | |||
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and operate production saws used in sawmill operations | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Load and prove operating program for computer numerical controlled (CNC) machine | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Apply principles for timber and process optimisation in sawmill operations | Elective | Elective | Elective | ||
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of timber properties, sawmill operations and sawmilling equipment | Elective | Elective | Core | Core | |
FWPSAW4XXX Optimise timber production for volume and value recovery | Elective | ||||
FWPSAW4XXX Monitor output timber for optimum volume and value recovery | Elective | ||||
FWPCOT3XXX Use scanning equipment for timber grading | Elective | Elective | |||
FWPCOT3XXX Calibrate and maintain scanning equipment | Elective | Elective |
Thirty-nine existing units of competency have been revised to meet the skill needs and compliance with the standards for training packages. Summary of changes made to these units is outlined below. Additional changes across the units also include updates to the workplace health and safety requirements and foundation skills, rewording application statement for clarifying the intent of the unit and other minor edits for improving clarity of statements.
The draft revised units can be viewed via the links below or click here to download a zipped folder of all units in this group.
Certificate III in Saw Technology Units
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT3XXX Assess and maintain saw technology tools |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3215 Swage and shape saw blades | Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen band saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3209 Align sawing production systems |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Recondition saw guides |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen tipped circular saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3214 Join band saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3219 Replace stellite tips |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Assess and maintain wide band saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Assess and maintain band saw wheels |
| Download final draft unit |
Certificate III in Wood Machining Units
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT2XXX Tail out timber product and waste material |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2XXX Operate and maintain a thicknesser |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2212 Grade hardwood sawn and milled products | Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2213 Grade softwood sawn and milled products | Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2214 Grade cypress sawn and milled products | Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2215 Visually stress grade hardwood | Reworded knowledge evidence | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2216 Visually stress grade softwood | Reworded knowledge evidence | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT2217 Visually stress grade cypress | Reworded knowledge evidence | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and run multi-head moulder/planer to produce simple profiles | Original unit FWPCOT3205 Dress boards using multi-headed machines has been replaced with 2 redrafted units of competency to break down the previous broad job function into defined skills. | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Set up and run multi-head moulder to produce complex profiles | Download final draft unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Set up, operate and maintain finger jointing machines |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Set up, operate and maintain end matching machines |
| Download final draft unit |
Common Units of Competency
Unit code and title | Proposed changes | Link |
FWPCOT2XXX Operate and maintain a table saw | Updated unit title as suggested Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Hand sharpen knives and blades for commercial and domestic cutting services |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters using a straight knife grinder | Original unit FWPCOT3210 Sharpen cutting tools has been replaced with 3 redrafted units of competency to break down the previous broad job function into defined skills. The 3 redrafted units cover different applications and methods for sharpening cutters (in cutter head or without cutter head), with each involving the use of distinct types of machines and complexities (profile knife grinder and straight knife grinder). | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters in head using a profile knife grinder | Download final draft unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters in head using a straight knife grinder | Download final draft unit | |
FWPCOT3XXX Replace saw blades, knives and guides |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Manufacture profile cutters |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Assess and maintain saw blade and sawing machine performance |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3217 Assess and maintain cutter performance |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen and position blades or knives in chipper, canter and reducer |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3237 Produce templates | Minor edits | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Apply knowledge of wood technology principles to end-use applications |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Sharpen circular saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX File and set saw blades for hand saws and circular saws |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3XXX Level and tension circular saw blades |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3218 Replace tungsten tips |
| Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3228 Apply principles of blade design to sawing procedures |
| Download final draft unit |
Three existing units of competency are proposed for removal from Certificate III in Saw Technology as they are no longer relevant to the current job requirements.
FWPSAW3217 Hard face saw teeth | View unit |
FWPSAW3221 Profile saw blanks | View unit |
FWPSAW3225 Maintain frame saw blades | View unit |
Thirteen existing units of competency are proposed for removal from Certificate III in Wood Machining as these competencies are no longer relevant to the current sawmill environments.
Units Within the Project Scope
FWPCOT3265 Cut timber or engineered wood product to profile | View unit |
FWPSAW3210 File and set saws | View unit |
FWPTMM2202 Machine material | View unit |
FWPTMM3201 Convert timber | View unit |
FWPTMM3202 Manufacture using joinery machines | View unit |
FWPCOT2224 Band edges of panels | View unit |
FWPTMM3203 Estimate and cost job | View unit |
Units outside the project scope
FWPCOT2232 Cut material to shape using a saw | View unit |
FWPCOT3234 Cut material using CNC sizing machines | View unit |
FWPCOT3235 Machine material using CNC machining and processing centres | View unit |
FWPTMM4203 Install and commission CNC software | View unit |
FWPWPP2210 Cut panels to profile | View unit |
Unit from the Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project
FWPSAW3226 Saw logs using CNC optimising systems | View unit |
Four units of competency are proposed for being listed in FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing to broaden accessibility for a school based pre-apprenticeship program for Wood Machinists and Saw Doctors (or Saw Technicians).
The draft units can be viewed via the links below or click here to download a zipped folder of all units in this group.
FWPCOT3XXX Hand sharpen knives and blades for commercial and domestic cutting services | Download final draft unit |
FWPCOT3XXX Sharpen cutters using a straight knife grinder | Download final draft unit |
FWPSAW3219 Replace stellite tips | Download final draft unit |
MEM05006C Perform brazing and/or silver soldering (We are seeking your views about the suitability of this unit for FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing. Skills Impact cannot make any physical changes to this unit as this is beyond our remit.) | View unit |
Eight units of competency including relevant prerequisites from the MEM Manufacturing and Engineering Training Package are proposed for being listed in the FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing to offer a career pathway to Saw Doctors (or Saw Technicians) through high-level skills in troubleshooting hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Note that all additional MEM prerequisite units have been listed on the Certificate III in Saw Technology.
Please note that Skills Impact cannot make any physical changes to these units as this is beyond our remit.
MEM18019B Maintain pneumatic systems | View unit |
MEM18018C Maintain pneumatic system components | View unit |
MEM18021B Maintain hydraulic systems | View unit |
MEM18020B Maintain hydraulic system components | View unit |
MEM18071B Connect/disconnect fluid conveying system components | View unit |
MEM18003 Use tools for precision work | Unit not yet published |
MEM18006 Perform precision fitting of engineering components | View unit |
MEM14006 Plan work activities | Unit not yet published |
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Finalisation
The timber processing industry is part of a sophisticated and integrated supply chain whose products are in strong demand from the Australian housing construction industry. Likewise, processed timber is a major material for high-value solid wood products such as flooring and furniture. Technological advancements and market demands have had a significant impact on how jobs are performed in the sector, particularly for wood machinists and saw doctors (now proposed to be called ‘saw technicians’). As a result of this project and the numerous industry representatives who volunteered their time and expertise, the timber industry has access to revised qualifications in these areas, reflecting current practices, equipment and terminology. The units were developed over an 11 month period, in consultation with industry and with guidance from a Technical Advisory Committee. As these skills are relevant across the sector, the project took place in conjunction with the Sawmill Timber and Process Optimisation Project. The qualifications, skill sets and units were endorsed by the Australian Industry and Skills Committee and State and Territory Ministers. They are published on the training.gov.au website, within the FWP Forest and Wood Products Training Package. RTOs can find information to help them deliver the new and revised units in the Companion Volume, linked on vetnet.gov.au. It provides additional information about the impacts of regulation and licensing implications and workplace health and safety on their training.
Key changes
Revised Qualifications
Two qualifications that underpin the apprenticeship and traineeships programs in the timber processing sector have undergone major review. These qualifications provide competencies for wood machinists and saw doctors, two critical job roles in the sector. Over the years, these job roles have evolved in complexity, particularly in the large softwood sawmills. Changes to the qualifications include a new title for one qualification, new units added and others removed.
The qualifications are now:
- FWP31019 Certificate III in Saw Technology
- FWP31119 Certificate III in Wood Machining
In addition, two qualifications have been revised to include additional units of competency to facilitate pre-apprenticeships in sawmilling and processing (FWP20316 Certificate II in Sawmilling and Processing) and to include an additional imported unit (FWP40216 Certificate IV in Timber Processing).
New Units
Four new units of competency have been developed to support processes and advanced technology for levelling and tensioning saw blades, and efficient operation of production sawing machines in sawmills.
New Skill sets
Two new skill sets (non-endorsable components) have been developed to facilitate a career pathway towards higher level technical jobs through skills in troubleshooting hydraulic and pneumatic systems. They contain relevant units imported from the Manufacturing and Engineering Training Package.
Revised Units
Forty eight units have been revised to meet current skill needs and ensure compliance with the Standards for Training Packages 2012. Common changes across many of these units include updates to the workplace health and safety requirements and foundation skills, rewording of application statements to clarify the intent of the units, alignment of requirements in the performance criteria and performance evidence, and other minor edits.
Deleted Unit
FWPSAW3225 Maintain frame saw blades has been deleted following feedback from stakeholders that it is no longer relevant to current workplaces. It covered a job activity related to the saw technology specialisation and it was previously included only in FWP30716 Certificate III in Sawdoctoring.
Summary of consultation
The qualifications, skill sets and units were drafted in consultation with a Technical Advisory Committee, made up of workplace experts and industry. The broader industry was consulted on the draft documents at two different stages – the ‘Drafts Available’ and ‘Validation’ stages. Throughout this process feedback was collected a number of ways, via meetings, online on the feedback hub, email, telephone and online surveys.
A summary of feedback and how it has been considered and applied at each stage can be downloaded below.
Please find below links to the final documents, that are published on the training.gov.au website.
Click here to download the Case for Endorsement
Certificate III in Saw Technology Units
Certificate III in Wood Machining Units
Common Units of Competency
FWPSAW3225 Maintain frame saw blades, has been for deleted from the FWP Forest and Wood Products Training Package, because feedback from stakeholders indicated that it is no longer relevant to current workplaces.