Unit of competency details

Release 

TP Version 

Comments 

1

DEF12 V2

Primary release. Supersedes and is equivalent to DEFCA005B Operate communications equipment

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency.

Performance Criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised  text is used, further information is detailed in the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Use communications systems and equipment 

1.1 Communication equipment  appropriate to the task is selected, inspected, tested and faults are reported in accordance with standard procedures. 

1.2 Communication equipment is set up and operated safely using authorised radio telephone procedure  in accordance with standard procedures.

1.3 Appropriate communication systems are utilised to facilitate the transmission and reception of voice and data.

2. Transmit and receive communications 

2.1 Information is transmitted in accordance with standard procedures.

2.2 Contact is acknowledged, communication is confirmed and action is taken as required in accordance with standard procedures.

2.3 Communication faults and deficiencies are managed and alternative communication strategies  are utilised in accordance with standard procedures.

2.4 Communications are processed and recorded in accordance with standard procedures.

3. Maintain communications equipment 

3.1 Fault finding techniques are applied and basic maintenance and routine servicing is conducted in accordance with standard procedures.

3.2 Faulty equipment is identified, noted for repair and documentation is completed in accordance with standard procedures.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills 

• clean and service communications equipment
• employ alternative communications strategies
• follow instructions/directives and report information
• handle classified material correctly
• identify basic equipment faults
• operate current radio equipment, including secure equipment
• provide timely and accurate reports
• read and implement written or verbal orders and procedures
• report communications faults and deficiencies
• use radio telephone procedure, including codes
• utilise communications systems

Required Knowledge 

• classified material handling procedures
• communications protocols, policy and procedures relevant to the operation of communications equipment
• composition of teams and roles and responsibility of team members
• message formats
• principles of teamwork and teams, aims and objectives
• radiation hazard (RADHAZ) awareness
• radio telephone procedure, including the use of codes
• range of communications equipment and accessories available
• security procedures

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit 

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

• set up and operate the current in-service, secure and insecure, communications equipment
• utilise correct radio telephone procedure
• maintain communications using alternative strategies when contact is lost

Consistency in performance 

Competency should be demonstrated over time and across a range of simulated or actual workplace situations.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment.

Specific resources for assessment 

Access to:

• Defence communications publications
• Defence security publications
• specific workplace operating procedures
• task specific communications equipment

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised  wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Communication equipment  may include:

• HF, VHF and UHF communications systems, accessories and equipment
• man-pack and vehicle mounted configurations
• range of antennas

Standard procedures  may include:

• communications protocols, policy and procedures
• manufacturer’s handbooks, industry specifications and technical instructions
• procedures manuals, job guides, communications pamphlets and other publications
• written and verbal orders and instructions

Radio telephone procedure  may include:

• call signs
• emergency procedures
• phonetic alphabet
• submission of routine reports and returns
• use of abbreviations
• use of codes
• voice procedure

Alternative communication strategies  may include:

• changing aerials
• changing equipment
• changing frequencies
• transmitting on another band or frequency
• use of landline