Introduction
Looking to work at Rio Tinto Yarwun? You’ll need to complete a Competency to Operate (CTO) Assessment before setting foot on site.
Harness Energy is an approved provider of this site-specific assessment designed to verify you have the required skills, knowledge, and aptitude to operate safely in line with Rio Tinto’s Learning Management Framework and site-specific operational standards.
This assessment is not just a formality, it’s a critical process that ensures workers can safely perform tasks, operate machinery, and meet the strict work health and safety requirements of the Yarwun operation.
Whether you’re new to Rio Tinto Yarwun or seeking site access approval, our CTO Assessment combines classroom-based theory with practical assessments to verify your competence and provide sufficient evidence for Rio Tinto Yarwun’s compliance requirements.
Course Dates
- UOC: Issued where applicable if completed as part of an integrated session
- Cost: From $129 (integrated session), $199 (CTO-only session)
- Duration: Full day (integrated session, as per UOC requirements); 2 hours (CTO-only session)
Introduction
Course Details

Price
From $129 (integrated session), $199 (CTO-only session)

Duration
Full day (integrated session, as per UOC requirements); 2 hours (CTO-only session)

Locations

Refresh
As required by Rio Tinto Yarwun site standards or operational changes

Delivery Methods
- Classroom

Unit Of Competency
Issued where applicable if completed as part of an integrated session

Training Prerequisites
English literacy and communication skills; Appropriate PPE for practical assessment; Prior experience or licensing may be required
The Competency to Operate (CTO) Assessment is a formal process designed to verify competence for personnel required to access Rio Tinto Yarwun operations.
Participants will undertake a combination of theoretical and practical assessments to demonstrate their understanding of site-specific safety procedures, equipment operation, and risk management practices. This assessment provides the knowledge required to operate safely and competently in accordance with Rio Tinto Yarwun’s Learning Management Framework.
The CTO Assessment ensures that workers meet site requirements, industry standards, and regulatory compliance before performing tasks or operating machinery on-site.
Harness Energy’s experienced trainers deliver the assessment at our purpose-built training facility or on-site by arrangement, supporting both new personnel and those requiring refresher assessments.
- Overview of Rio Tinto Yarwun site requirements and operational procedures
- Awareness of work health and safety obligations
- Identification and control of risks and hazards
- Review of equipment and mobile plant operation standards
- Communication protocols and workplace procedures
- Permit to Work system and site access requirements
- Safe operation of machinery in a simulated environment
- Verification of competence through practical assessments
- Completion of required documentation for Learning Management System (LMS) upload
Upon successful completion of the assessment, participants will be deemed competent to operate within Rio Tinto Yarwun’s site-specific requirements. Assessment results are submitted directly to the client for upload into the Learning Management System (LMS) as verification of competence. Where applicable, a Statement of Attainment for any integrated Unit of Competency will also be issued by Harness Energy.
Course Prerequisites
To undertake the Competency to Operate (CTO) Assessment, participants must meet the following requirements:
- Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN): Participants must have sufficient reading, writing, and communication skills to interpret site procedures, complete assessment documentation, and follow Permit to Work systems.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): All participants must wear suitable PPE for the practical assessment component, including high-visibility clothing, safety boots, gloves, and other site-specific requirements.
- Prior Experience: Depending on the tasks and equipment involved, prior experience or licensing may be necessary. Evidence of prior learning or vocational education will be required.
- Evidence Requirements:
- Previous Statement of Attainment – within the last 2 years with the UOC listed.
- Previous CTO completed in the last 2 years
- Evidence Requirements:
- Physical Fitness: Participants should be physically capable of safely performing tasks required in simulated environments, including operating mobile plant and machinery.
Please contact Harness Energy if you have any questions about meeting these prerequisites or require clarification based on your role or experience level.
Additional Information
- Harness Energy is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO 40521) with extensive experience delivering high-risk industry training and assessments.
- Group bookings are available for companies needing to verify competence for multiple workers in a single session.
- Gap training can be arranged if participants require further development before completing the full CTO assessment.
- The CTO process is designed to align with industry standards, regulatory frameworks, and Rio Tinto’s specific site requirements.
- Ongoing support is available through our monthly student drop-in days for those seeking additional guidance or clarification.
- Train-the-Trainer programs are available for client facilitators needing to conduct internal assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
The CTO assessment is a formal process that verifies workers have the knowledge, skills, and understanding required to safely operate within Rio Tinto Yarwun’s site-specific conditions. It is mandatory to ensure all personnel meet safety, compliance, and operational standards before starting work onsite.
While prior experience operating machinery or working in similar environments is helpful, it is not always required. Participants must demonstrate competency during both the theory and practical components. Gap training can be arranged if needed.
Yes. Where relevant, evidence of prior learning or current qualifications may be reviewed as part of the assessment process. This helps identify if gap training is required.
Validity is determined by Rio Tinto Yarwun’s site requirements. In most cases, re-assessment is required if site procedures change or after a set period. Check with your employer or Harness Energy for site-specific requirements.
Assessments are held at Harness Energy’s Gladstone Training Facility or can be delivered onsite at Rio Tinto Yarwun by arrangement for group bookings.
If a participant is deemed not yet competent, Harness Energy will provide feedback and guidance on next steps. Gap training or reassessment can be arranged to help you meet the required standard.
Contact Harness Energy directly to view upcoming course dates or organise a private session for your team. Group bookings are available for four or more participants.
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