Unit of competency details

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. Develop strategies 

1.1 Search and rescue parameters are identified based on information  available.

1.2 Search and rescue strategy is developed based on all information available.

1.3 Required resources  are identified in accordance with the strategy based on all available information.

1.4 Strategy is evaluated and reviewed as determined by the input of all information and review of available resources.

2. Coordinate team members 

2.1 Team members are informed of the scenario and strategy, determined from outcome of review of all information and resource requirements.

2.2 Team members  are briefed on their roles and responsibilities  and of the way the team will operate.

2.3 Tasks are allocated to team members commensurate with their roles in the team and level of competence.

2.4 Confirmation is gained from team member of an understanding of the scenario, their role and roles of others in the team.

2.5 Performance of team members is monitored and reviewed as the scenario unfolds to determine ongoing requirements.

2.6 Feedback from team members is received and relayed to others.

3. Liaise with internal and external authorities and agencies/organisations 

3.1 Briefings  are provided to the appropriate people.

3.2 Resources are monitored and reviewed to determine changing requirements.

3.3 Guidance and support  are provided and sought to/from authorities and agencies in accordance with requirements.

4. Manage communications systems 

4.1 Communications systems are identified as appropriate to the situation and strategy.

4.2 Communications systems are selected in accordance with requirements.

4.3 Communications systems are managed to provide optimum capability.

5. Manage search and rescue records 

5.1 Records  are managed to ensure quality and attention to detail.

5.2 Intended audience for written report  is identified and expectations negotiated.

5.3 Content of report is accurate and written in a concise and logical manner.

5.4 Report is disseminated to the intended audience in a timely manner.

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

Required Skills 

• develop search and rescue strategies based on information available
• effectively communicate and consult with a range of individuals by a range of means including fax
• make decisions
• negotiate
• telephone and face-to-face
• write reports

Required Knowledge 

• coaching and team building concepts
• communications systems available within the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC)
• technical maintenance state of Search and Rescue resources
• personal abilities and competence levels
• management techniques
• OH&S requirements
• personnel entitlements and administrative procedure
• team members capabilities
• organisation's policies and procedures protocols
• equipment and resource relevant to search and rescue operations

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

The ability to assess information, form strategies, and create plans based on strategies.

The ability to convey the strategies and plans to team members.

Consistency in performance 

Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated workplace environments.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Evidence can be collected on the job or may be undertaken in a simulation.

Specific resources for assessment 

On job assessment will not entail additional resources However, rosters may need to be amended if simulation e.g. Search and Rescue exercise (SAREX) is selected as the method of assessment.

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.

Information  may include:

• specialist search and rescue information systems
• search and rescue authorities
• members of the public
• vessel/aircraft owners
• agents and operators both private and commercial
• volunteer organisations
• government departments
• professional associations and event organisers

Resources  may include:

• maps/charts
• electronic aids
• manuals
• instructions
• people
• equipment
• facilities
• vehicles
• vessels
• aircraft
• fuel
• accommodation
• ADF/Police assets
• communications systems and stationery

Team members roles and responsibilities  may include:

• Intelligence gathering
• allocation of assets
• rescue planning

Briefings  may include:

• providing information to team members
• members of the public
• external search and rescue authorities
• manager operations
• Australian maritime safety authority public relations personnel
• media

Guidance and support  may include:

• telecommunications systems including telephone
• fax and telex
• electronic communications systems
• satellite communications systems

Records  may include:

• databases
• logs and files

Written report  may include:

• messaging systems
• covering reports (overview of operation
• recommendations
• attachments)
• board reports and briefings
• briefings to government
• initial advice forms
• search and rescue logs
• media releases