The stop/slow bat training course is often the first step needed for workers acting as a traffic controller on a job site. It teaches the skills and knowledge required for safely directing the flow of traffic.
If you need to complete the RIIWHS205D course, arrange for face to face training. Online courses do not meet the requirements for earning accreditation to become a traffic controller.
What Is the Training Requirement for the Slow Stop Bat Course?
The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) is the national regulator for vocational training, which lists the RIIWHS205D course and unit of competency, as well as other WHS training programs. According to the training requirements approved by the ASQA, the traffic control course needs to be completed face to face.
ASQA audits company procedures, materials and systems to approve training organisations. Only complete training through registered training organisations (RTOs), such as AlertForce. This ensures that you fulfil the obligations needed to become a traffic controller.
The unit of competency for the traffic control course includes specific performance criteria and topics. Workers also need to learn foundation skills for applying the information covered in the course.
At the end of the course, you need to take an assessment. The assessment requires participants to demonstrate competency in the unit, including the steps for controlling traffic using a stop-slow bat safely.
How Is RIIWHS205D Training Delivered?
The face to face training includes theory and practical training followed by an assessment. The assessment is delivered in a setting that matches the context of the sector’s work environment.
The courses typically last a full day. For example, the course at AlertForce is normally scheduled from 8 am to 4 pm. In NSW, there is also a practical consisting of various live job site scenarios that need to be completed.
Online courses are self-paced but are not recognised, so therefore there is little point in doing one.
Why Do You Need to Complete a Stop Slow Bat Traffic Control Course?
The stop slow bat traffic control course is designed for workers in the Infrastructure and Resources industries. Basically, anyone that needs to direct traffic or supervise traffic on a job site may need to complete the RIIWHS205D course. Along with roadwork, traffic management may be needed for shopping centres, warehouses, special events, and construction workplaces.
The course teaches you how to plan and prepare for work activity that involves traffic. Traffic may include vehicles and pedestrians on a public roadway near a roadworks project or heavy machinery on a construction site.
How Much Does the RIIWHS205D Training Cost?
The cost of RIIWHS205D training can vary. The full-day traffic control course at AlertForce costs $250 per person. Practical work experience can be organised for $165 per person and typically takes between ½ to 1 day depending on numbers.
After completing the RIIWHS205D, you may complete the RIIWHS302D course for implementing traffic control plans (ITCP). This course also costs $325 per person and is typically intended for supervisors and operators.
If you intend to complete both units of competency, you can save money by enrolling in the TC + ITCP combo course. It costs $550 per person.
What Will You Learn by Completing RIIWHS205D Traffic Control Training?
During the training course, you learn how to follow a traffic control plan and use proper signage to direct traffic. The course includes specific topics outlined by the ASQA. No matter the registered training organisation, the course that you attend should include the following learning outcomes:
- How to prepare and plan for traffic control
- How to control traffic
- How to operate communication equipment
- How to clean up
Planning and preparing are important components of the RIIWHS205D course. You learn how to interpret traffic management plans and procedures. The training provider should also discuss legislative regulations related to traffic management, allowing you to ensure that work activity remains compliant.
The initial portion of the course also covers the recommended signage, devices, tools, and equipment for controlling the flow of traffic. This includes the use of stop/slow bats, barriers, and various signs.
The second portion of the unit of competency discusses the procedures for controlling traffic. During the course, you learn how to direct and monitor traffic. The subtopics include using handheld signs and hand signals to position the waiting vehicles and direct drivers around obstacles or barriers.
When directing traffic, you will likely need to remain in communication with coworkers. The course includes training for various communication devices, including how to maintain optimum reception and transmission.
The last topics in the course describe the recommended steps for removing and covering signs or devices. This may include the use of signs to warn motorists of potential hazards after work has shut down for the day.
What Accreditation Will You Get?
You receive a statement of attainment for completing the training course and assessment. After obtaining the statement, you can apply for accreditation and obtain a controller licence. In many cases the RTO will do this on your behalf – for example in NSW you need accreditation from RMS.
Accreditation for traffic controllers can be completed in person or online through your nearest Roads Authority (the process varies from State to State) so just get advice from your RTO. The accreditation is valid for a period of three years. After three years, you need to retake the face to face refresher program.
Summary
Any work carried out near motorists or heavy machinery involves additional risks. Pedestrians and drivers may not see workers, increasing the potential risk of an accident. Without proper traffic control, job sites may also become hard to navigate, decreasing productivity and safety.
Traffic control training helps mitigate these risks. You can learn how to use a stop-slow bat to direct drivers around work areas. Initial courses must be completed face to face.
If you require traffic control training, contact AlertForce to explore available courses in your jurisdiction.
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