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Certificate IV in Process Plant Technology (PMA40116)

Certifications

Build the technical skills to operate and troubleshoot process plant equipment in complex industrial environments. This nationally recognised qualification is designed for plant technicians and operations staff working in chemical, hydrocarbons, and refining industries.

Course Overview


This qualification gives you the knowledge and practical skills to work as a plant or operations technician in industrial processing environments. You will learn how to monitor and control plant operations, apply safety procedures, respond to faults and abnormal conditions, and solve complex technical problems across the plant.

The Certificate IV in Process Plant Technology is nationally recognised and sits within the PMA Chemical, Hydrocarbons and Refining Training Package. It is designed for workers who are already employed in the industry and want to formalise their skills or move into a more senior technical role.

This course is suited to plant technicians, operations technicians, supervisors, and workers in chemical, hydrocarbons, or refining environments who need to solve complex technical problems and work independently across plant operations. It is also suited to workers looking to move into a more senior technical or supervisory role.

This qualification is not suited to people entering the industry for the first time with no prior process plant experience.

Key Details

Delivery: Face to face (theory and practical) or workplace-based delivery for group bookings where suitable

Start and Intake Information: Regular intakes are available. Contact Health Security Education for upcoming course dates.

Schedule and Time Commitment: This qualification is typically completed over a period of several months depending on delivery mode and recognition of prior learning. Contact us for details specific to your situation.

Work Placement: No formal work placement is required, however access to an operational process plant environment is needed to complete practical assessment tasks.

Units of Competency / Course Content

This qualification requires 26 units in total: 5 core units and 21 elective units selected to suit your job role and industry context.

Core Units:

MSMENV272 – Participate in environmentally sustainable work practices MSMSUP100 – Apply workplace context to own job MSMSUP102 – Communicate in the workplace MSMWHS110 – Follow emergency response procedures MSMWHS200 – Work safely

Elective Units:

21 elective units are selected based on your role and workplace requirements. Contact Health Security Education for the full list of electives included in their delivery of this qualification.

Course Details

Delivery ModeFace to face
National RecognisedYes
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Course Information

Minimum Age: 18 years old
Prerequisites: There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification. However, current or prior experience working in a process plant environment is strongly recommended.
Language, Literacy and Numeracy: All learners complete an LLN assessment. Support is available where needed.
PPE and Equipment: Appropriate PPE is required where relevant. A device with internet access is needed if online learning is included.
Workplace or Site Access: Participants must have access to a relevant operational environment to complete practical assessment activities. Reasonable adjustments are available where appropriate.

Workplace or simulated practical tasks
Knowledge checks and short-answer questions
Projects/portfolios (as required)
Trainer observations and third-party reports (where applicable)

On successful completion, participants will be issued the CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs by Health Security Education (RTO #40907) and a valid USI is required prior to certification issue.

Course fees include training, assessment and (where applicable) issuance of certification for participants who successfully meet competency requirements.
Course fees may not include personal PPE, travel, onsite delivery travel costs, replacement certificates, or additional resources unless stated.

Funding and subsidies: Where applicable, funding or subsidies may be available for eligible participants.
Payment terms: Payment is required prior to course commencement unless otherwise arranged.
Refunds and withdrawals: Refunds are managed in accordance with Health Security Education’s Fees and Refunds Policy. Written notice is required to withdraw.

Trainer support is available throughout the course. Language, literacy and numeracy (LLN) support and wellbeing support are available on request. Health Security Education provides a safe, respectful and inclusive learning environment.
Participants must follow trainer instructions and use equipment safely. Reasonable adjustment is available where appropriate.
USI: A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) is required prior to the issuance of nationally recognised certification.
Policies and processes (including Complaints & Appeals) are available via the Student Handbook.

Credit Transfer: Available for equivalent completed units where a valid and current Statement of Attainment is provided.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): May be available for learners who can provide evidence of current competence.
Pathways: This unit may support entry into further training pathways in health, community services, emergency response, workplace safety, or related outcomes, depending on learner goals and packaging rules.