Block A – Common Occupational Skills

Trends

Safety concerns are leading to increased commitments to legislated safety programs and best practices.

The use of respirators in lieu of dust masks is becoming common practice.

Tools and equipment are more ergonomic and user-friendly.

Motorized equipment is becoming less noisy. More environmentally friendly options are available.

Information is increasingly being shared among landscape horticulturists as a result of more sophisticated digital devices and the internet.

There are increasing restrictions in the movement of plant material across jurisdictional borders.

Keeping accurate and up-to-date records is important.

Related Components

All components apply.

Tools and Equipment

See Appendix A.

Task 1 Performs safety-related functions.

Context

Proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential for personal safety. Awareness of safety considerations, completing assessments and the use of safety equipment such as pylons and barricades is important to maintaining a safe work environment.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 safety regulations and company safety manual
• K 2 types of PPE and their operation
• K 3 types of safety equipment and their operation
• K 4 storage procedures for tools and equipment
• K 5 safety regulations that apply to the transporting of material and equipment
• K 6 WHMIS procedures
• K 7 health and safety procedures
• K 8 site hazards such as public and private utilities
• K 9 universal hand signals
• K 10 first aid training

Sub-task A-1.01 Uses personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety equipment.

Key Competencies:

• A-1.01.01 select and use PPE such as ear, eye, hand and foot protection, and safety vests as required for task, tools, equipment, machinery and environment
• A-1.01.02 select and use safety equipment such as ventilation fans, spill kits and fire extinguishers according to manufacturers’ specification
• A-1.01.03 store PPE and safety equipment in a dry, protected environment to maintain its integrity
• A-1.01.04 check operation and condition of PPE and safety equipment regularly and prior to use
• A-1.01.05 check PPE and safety equipment inventory to ensure that there is a ready supply
• A-1.01.06 recognize damaged and expired PPE and safety equipment and remove from service
• A-1.01.07 check and replace PPE components according to manufacturers' specifications and workplace requirements

Sub-task A-1.02 Maintains safe work environment.

Key Competencies

• A-1.02.01 assess hazards such as high voltage, motorized equipment and working at heights according to OH&S and company safety policy
• A-1.02.02 take action for overhead hazards such as power lines and tree branches to prevent damage and personal injuries
• A-1.02.03 identify required PPE and safety equipment for task
• A-1.02.04 follow specified safety procedures such as use of fall arrest, establishing fuelling zones, trenching and shoring, and confined space procedures
• A-1.02.05 maintain a clean and tidy work area to avoid injuries to self and others
• A-1.02.06 comply with lock-out/tag-out procedures when working on equipment
• A-1.02.07 coordinate tasks with other workers to avoid injury to self, co-workers and others
• A-1.02.08 place flagging, pylons and signage when working in high traffic areas according to jurisdictional regulations
• A-1.02.09 handle hazardous materials in accordance with jurisdictional regulations and WHMIS procedures such as disposal, labelling and use of PPE
• A-1.02.10 participate in safety meetings and discussions to ensure that information is recorded and distributed to all team members
• A-1.02.11 recognize and report unsafe conditions
• A-1.02.12 recognize safety and warning signals such as back-up signals, back-up alarms and warning lights
• A-1.02.13 use universal hand signals when communicating with equipment operators and drivers
• A-1.02.14 contain and dispose of spill contaminants according to regulations
• A-1.02.15 coordinate with emergency response teams such as spill response and fire
• A-1.02.16 administer first aid treatment

Task 2 Maintains tools, equipment and vehicles.

Context

Landscape horticulturists must maintain various types of tools, equipment and vehicles to increase longevity and to ensure that work is done in a safe and productive manner.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 tool, equipment and vehicle operation and function
• K 2 safety regulations and safe work practices
• K 3 types of PPE such as safety glasses and gloves
• K 4 storage and sanitation procedures for tools, equipment and vehicles
• K 5 maintenance practices for tools, equipment and vehicles
• K 6 record keeping procedures for maintaining tools, equipment and vehicles
• K 7 engine types and their requirements
• K 8 types of hitches and ball sizes

Sub-task A-2.01 Maintains hand tools.

Key Competencies

• A-2.01.01 clean and disinfect hand tools to ensure proper operation and to prevent transfer of contaminants
• A-2.01.02 lubricate hand tools such as secateurs and shears
• A-2.01.03 check tools regularly for damage, excessive wear and proper operation and remove from service
• A-2.01.04 store hand tools for organization, safety and security
• A-2.01.05 sharpen hand tools such as secateurs, shears and shovels
• A-2.01.06 replace components in tools such as secateurs and loppers due to damage and wear

Sub-task A-2.02 Maintains power tools.

Key Competencies

• A-2.02.01 lubricate power tools according to manufacturers' specifications
• A-2.02.02 adjust power tools such as chain saws, mowers and power washers
• A-2.02.03 check tools for wear, damage and malfunction such as a damaged power cord, and remove from service
• A-2.02.04 follow recommended maintenance schedule according to manufacturers' specifications
• A-2.02.05 check fluid levels, fuel mixture ratios and air pressure
• A-2.02.06 grease nipples on motorized equipment
• A-2.02.07 sharpen and balance mower blades
• A-2.02.08 sharpen tools such as chainsaws and hedge shears according to manufacturers' specifications
• A-2.02.09 check, charge or replace batteries on power tools
• A-2.02.10 check components such as filters and mufflers
• A-2.02.11 refuel equipment according to manufacturers' specifications
• A-2.02.12 disinfect tools to prevent cross-contamination from site to site
• A-2.02.13 store power tools for organization, safety and security

Sub-task A-2.03 Maintains measuring equipment.

Key Competencies

• A-2.03.01 clean and disinfect measuring equipment to ensure proper operation and to prevent transfer of contaminants
• A-2.03.02 calibrate measuring equipment such as pH meters, levels and electrical conductivity (EC) meters
• A-2.03.03 check, charge and replace batteries on measuring equipment
• A-2.03.04 check tools for damage, excessive wear and proper operation, and remove from service
• A-2.03.05 store measuring equipment for organization, safety and security

Sub-task A-2.04 Maintains vehicles and motorized equipment.

Key Competencies

• A-2.04.01 perform and document a circle check of vehicles and motorized equipment to check for defects such as compromised lights, plates and brakes
• A-2.04.02 clean motorized equipment for reasons such as maintaining optimal operation, detection of leaks and sanitation
• A-2.04.03 inspect equipment visually for damage and wear, and lock-out and tag-out
• A-2.04.04 inspect equipment to ensure efficient functioning
• A-2.04.05 check condition of safety features such as lockout devices, chutes, trimmer and belt guards, rollover protection devices (ROP) and operator presence switches
• A-2.04.06 check fluid levels such as oil, coolant and hydraulic fluids according to manufacturers' specifications
• A-2.04.07 check and replace components such as spark plugs, belts, hoses and pull cords according to manufacturer’s specifications
• A-2.04.08 check and adjust air pressure in components such as tires and air compressors for tools
• A-2.04.09 check and tighten loose connections and fittings
• A-2.04.10 check cutting height and adjust according to client expectations and turfgrass needs

Sub-task A-2.05 Maintains equipment attachments and trailers.

Key Competencies

• A-2.05.01 grease fittings on trailers and equipment such as aerators and cultivators
• A-2.05.02 inspect attachments for damage and wear, and lock-out/tag-out
• A-2.05.03 adjust attachments for parking, travel and operation
• A-2.05.04 check hydraulic fluids and hose condition to ensure optimum and safe operation of equipment
• A-2.05.05 clean and disinfect attachments such as drop spreaders, sprayers and mowers
• A-2.05.06 replace damaged and worn components such as bushings, blades and tines
• A-2.05.07 perform a circle check of equipment attachments to check for defective parts such as lights, chains, plates, safety guards and brakes
• A-2.05.08 check operation of safety brake, latch pin and safety chain on trailers

Task 3 Organizes work.

Context

Landscape horticulturists organize work for productivity and safety.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 site assessment and determine logistics
• K 2 site hazards
• K 3 site access
• K 4 types of growing media
• K 5 features that require preservation and protection
• K 6 interpretation of documentation
• K 7 source and reliability of documentation
• K 8 types of documents such as government publications, specifications, and instruction and assembly manuals
• K 9 types of records such as vehicle maintenance logs and mileage records
• K 10 jurisdictional regulations
• K 11 plant identification and nomenclature
• K 12 verbal and written communication methods
• K 13 transportation effects on plants
• K 14 acclimatization requirements of plant materials
• K 15 WHMIS procedures
• K 16 health and safety procedures
• K 17 monitoring devices such as recording devices and thermometers
• K 18 material handling techniques
• K 19 safe loading/unloading and transportation of equipment and materials
• K 20 load and weight distribution for transporting equipment
• K 21 weight restrictions for transporting equipment
• K 22 securing methods for transporting tools and equipment
• K 23 regulations that apply to the transporting of material and equipment such as straps and chains
• K 24 basic traffic control procedures and bylaws
• K 25 licensing requirements for transporting materials and equipment such as load securement and weight loads

Sub-task A-3.01 Performs site assessments.

Key Competencies

• A-3.01.01 assess access points to identify site restrictions and challenges for work
• A-3.01.02 perform visual inspection of site and neighbouring properties for factors such as existing damage and extensional (surrounding) landscape
• A-3.01.03 use jurisdictional ‘call before you dig’ service to identify utility locations
• A-3.01.04 identify markings for private and public utilities such as cable, natural gas, power and telephone
• A-3.01.05 identify and mark locations of private utilities such as irrigation lines, drainage systems and landscape lighting components
• A-3.01.06 perform tests such as percolation, core sampling and texture tests to determine quality of existing soil
• A-3.01.07 locate septic field components and wells
• A-3.01.08 identify health and vigour of existing plants for cultural maintenance or removal
• A-3.01.09 identify areas to be excavated and protected
• A-3.01.10 identify existing and proposed grading and drainage patterns
• A-3.01.11 identify security requirements

Sub-task A-3.02 Uses documentation and reference material.

Key Competencies

• A-3.02.01 locate and interpret documentation such as drawings and specifications, tenders, addenda and contracts, site locates, and product instructions
• A-3.02.02 refer to WHMIS documentation for procedures such as usage of PPE, storage requirements, spill containment, and usage and cleanup of hazardous material
• A-3.02.03 use catalogues for reasons such as plant identification, comparing products among suppliers, and ordering tools, equipment and plant materials
• A-3.02.04 use resources such as text books, field books, operator equipment manual (OEM) and internet for in-depth information regarding plant materials, pests and diseases

Sub-task A-3.03 Maintains records.

Key Competencies

• A-3.03.01 complete safety records such as accident reports, tag-outs and safety meeting records according to governmental, industry and company regulations
• A-3.03.02 complete work records such as work orders, daily time sheets, change orders and site assessment records according to company policy
• A-3.03.03 complete tool and equipment sign-out and training sign-off sheets according to company policy
• A-3.03.04 maintain records related to integrated pest management (IPM) and plant health programs
• A-3.03.05 record information such as fertilizer application, treatments, temperatures, cropping schedules and inventory management
• A-3.03.06 record shipping information such as inventory adjustments, regulatory documentation and Phytosanitary Certificates
• A-3.03.07 compare packing slips with original orders to ensure that shipments are complete
• A-3.03.08 read test results and monitoring devices and record data

Sub-task A-3.04 Complies with policies and regulations.

Key Competencies

• A-3.04.01 review and comply with current governmental and company policies and regulations such as labour, transportation, pest control, conservation of water, habitat preservation and control of spraying
• A-3.04.02 enforce safety regulations such as PPE usage, usage of tools and equipment, and handling and storage of materials
• A-3.04.03 comply with jurisdictional environmental protection agencies such as Health Canada, Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Environment Canada
• A-3.04.04 contact appropriate authorities for information and to report accidents and incidents
• A-3.04.05 verify that personal licensing and certification are current

Sub-task A-3.05 Plans daily tasks.

Key Competencies

• A-3.05.01 identify and prioritize tasks to assist in time management and efficient performance
• A-3.05.02 organize labour, materials and equipment for tasks
• A-3.05.03 delegate tasks to team members to utilize individual strengths
• A-3.05.04 modify daily tasks according to challenges such as site hazards, weather, lack of materials and competing projects
• A-3.05.05 refer to historical information and previous records to assist in the daily planning
• A-3.05.06 uses design software applications and 3D modelling

Sub-task A-3.06 Communicates with others.

Key Competencies

• A-3.06.01 use effective verbal and written communication to relay information to persons such as co-workers, clients, suppliers and office staff
• A-3.06.02 mentor apprentices
• A-3.06.03 use universal hand signals to communicate with machine operators, truck drivers and crane operators
• A-3.06.04 communicate visually to direct movement of machinery, equipment and people
• A-3.06.05 use communication equipment such as two way radios, computers and cell phones
• A-3.06.06 ensure that co-workers understand instructions using techniques such as onthe- job-training (OJT) method and repeating back
• A-3.06.07 practice active listening
• A-3.06.08 employ conflict resolution strategies
• A-3.06.09 report discrepancies and seek direction from supervisor
• A-3.06.10 provide input for employee evaluations

Sub-task A-3.07 Orders plants and materials.

Key Competencies

• A-3.07.01 identify size, quality, quantity and type of required materials
• A-3.07.02 use botanical nomenclature when ordering plant material to ensure accuracy of orders
• A-3.07.03 record order number, tracking number and name of supplier representative
• A-3.07.04 compare prices for budget purposes
• A-3.07.05 determine availability, time and date of delivery or pick up
• A-3.07.06 ensure documents such as movement certificates and import permits are in place

Sub-task A-3.08 Transports materials.

Key Competencies

• A-3.08.01 protect plant materials with items such as tarps and anti-desiccants
• A-3.08.02 secure materials using appropriate load bearing tie downs according to jurisdictional regulations
• A-3.08.03 load/unload materials using tools and equipment such as dollies and forklifts
• A-3.08.04 load materials in sequence and direction to allow for optimal transport and unloading
• A-3.08.05 ensure that loose materials such as branches, wood chips, soil and aggregates are secure and loaded in a manner to prevent spillage
• A-3.08.06 cover materials according to company policy and jurisdictional regulations
• A-3.08.07 load and transport material according to weight restriction regulations and load distribution requirements
• A-3.08.08 perform and document circle check of vehicle and towed equipment

Sub-task A-3.09 Organizes plants, materials and equipment.

Key Competencies

• A-3.09.01 inspect and verify plants and materials for accuracy, quality, quantity and damage prior to unloading and according to purchase order
• A-3.09.02 place imported plants in a separate location from local plants until inspected by CFIA and according to jurisdictional regulations
• A-3.09.03 remove and inspect monitoring devices such as temperature recorders and environmental recorders
• A-3.09.04 receive, unload and record plants and group/match plants by size and species
• A-3.09.05 place plants in designated areas such as job site, hot house, shaded area or heeling-in-bed
• A-3.09.06 unload, place and protect materials such as wood chips, soil and aggregates in an organized fashion in designated storage areas to avoid contamination and maintain product quality
• A-3.09.07 allocate specified storage area for equipment and hazardous materials
• A-3.09.08 receive and record materials such as soils, seed, plugs, roots, labels and containers
• A-3.09.09 quarantine, reject and dispose of substandard materials according to regulations
• A-3.09.10 perform final check of required plants, materials and equipment on site

Sub-task A-3.10 Transports equipment.

Key Competencies

• A-3.10.01 select trailer type according to equipment and weight restrictions
• A-3.10.02 secure loads according to jurisdictional requirements
• A-3.10.03 determine route from shop to work site for heavy hauling
• A-3.10.04 tie flags to back end of trailers to indicate extended load according to jurisdictional regulations
• A-3.10.05 place traffic cones and wheel chocks when loading and unloading trailer
• A-3.10.06 follow road closure procedures according to jurisdictional regulations
• A-3.10.07 comply with licensing requirements for transporting equipment
• A-3.10.08 transport equipment in a manner to avoid personal injury and damage to equipment and property.

Task 4 Participates in marketing and sales.

Context

Landscape horticulturists sell products and services that meet and exceed client expectations. Establishing and maintaining customer relations is a critical component of the marketing strategy.

Landscape horticulturists need to manage and control a broad range of inventory products. They also need to know about estimating, tendering and contracting processes.

Required Knowledge

• K 1 purchase order and record keeping techniques
• K 2 plant identification and nomenclature
• K 3 inventory software
• K 4 tracking methods
• K 5 phytosanitary inspection and certification
• K 6 softscape products such as plants, fertilizers, soils, chemicals and containers
• K 7 merchandising and marketing techniques and tools such as business cards, brochures and website
• K 8 professional conduct
• K 9 customer retention skills and relationship building
• K 10 selling skills
• K 11 basic estimating of materials
• K 12 regulations, permits, specifications, bylaws and restrictions
• K 13 installation techniques
• K 14 hardscaping products such as paving stones, natural stone, weed barriers and edging
• K 15 site access requirements
• K 16 site restriction and security requirements
• K 17 environmental constraints
• K 18 tendering systems and requirements such as bonding, payment schedules, deficiencies and extras
• K 19 time allocation to perform tasks required in contract
• K 20 equipment and tools required to perform job
• K 21 scheduling and critical path analyses

Sub-task A-4.01 Controls inventory.

Key Competencies

• A-4.01.01 identify and count inventory using manual or electronic systems
• A-4.01.02 maintain inventory records
• A-4.01.03 identify and sort materials
• A-4.01.04 identify restock orders

Sub-task A-4.02 Sells products and services.

Key Competencies

• A-4.02.01 advise and educate clients on plants, products and services
• A-4.02.02 direct customer to seasonal purchases such as Christmas trees and seasonal lighting
• A-4.02.03 up-sell additional products and services to clients and advise of special offers
• A-4.02.04 merchandize products and services in an attractive and visible way
• A-4.02.05 apply marketing principles such as creating internet presence and advertising
• A-4.02.06 handle payments for products and services
• A-4.02.07 write invoices, calculate taxes and issue receipts for payment
• A-4.02.08 maintain professional image and appearance
• A-4.02.09 prepare and administer contracts

Sub-task A-4.03 Maintains customer relations.

Key Competencies

• A-4.03.01 address client’s concerns with tact, politeness and in a timely manner according to company policy
• A-4.03.02 practice customer service by acknowledging clients and potential clients
• A-4.03.03 maintain customer record information such as address, phone number, email and product preferences
• A-4.03.04 provide after-service follow-up
• A-4.03.05 practice active listening

Sub-task A-4.04 Prepares estimates.

Key Competencies

• A-4.04.01 interpret tendering document when provided to understand requirements for estimate
• A-4.04.02 estimate basic material requirements
• A-4.04.03 perform take-off from drawings to determine parameters such as quantity, size, type and volume of materials and products
• A-4.04.04 identify and apply additional costs such as sub-trades, transportation, safety program, contingencies, change orders, surcharges, accommodations and overhead
• A-4.04.05 co-ordinate project logistics with other contractors, suppliers and employees, to establish direct costs by discussing items such as skill requirements, machinery and products
• A-4.04.06 calculate price and labour requirements to supply and install products and materials
• A-4.04.07 provide estimates for contract preparation