Modification History
Release |
TP Version |
Comments |
3 |
PUA12 V2.1 |
Editorial changes. |
2 |
PUA12 V2 |
Layout adjusted. No changes to content |
1 |
PUA00 V8.1 |
Primary release on TGA |
Unit Descriptor
This unit covers the competency required to record and document physical evidence collected at a fire scene and to coordinate the analysis process in line with agency requirements.
This unit does not address the technical and forensic analysis of evidence.
No licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Application of the Unit
Application of this unit is relevant to specialist fire investigators.
It focuses on the skills and knowledge required to develop and apply a systematic approach to the recording and documenting of physical evidence collected at a fire scene and the coordination of the analysis of evidence.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Not applicable.
Pre-Requisites
PUALAW001B Protect and preserve incident scene (Fire sector specific)
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
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. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1. Evaluate scene and determine investigative regime |
1.1 Authority to search is obtained or verified, as necessary, through required channels 1.2 Occupational health and safety (OHS) requirements are met 1.3 Incident scene security is confirmed, according to agency requirements 1.4 Fire scene is systematically observed 1.5 Physical evidence is detected using appropriate observation techniques and technological methods |
2. Collect and record physical evidence |
2.1 Evidence collection plan and evidence recording process are established, in accordance with organisational guidelines and legislative requirements 2.2 Items of physical evidence are recorded prior to collection 2.3 Liaison with technical specialists is initiated regarding appropriateness, collection, preservation, handling and transportation of evidential samples to be collected, as required 2.4 Latent evidence is collected/detected by physical or chemical means 2.5 Quality and quantity of samples are collected to ensure accuracy and sufficiency 2.6 Evidence is labelled and documented in accordance with agency requirements to ensure continuity of evidence |
3. Store, process and transport evidence |
3.1 Physical evidence is packaged and stored to maintain continuity and to prevent degradation, contamination and spoliation 3.2 Appropriate documentation is completed by all persons handling or in possession of evidence, in accordance with evidentiary requirements and organisational guidelines 3.3 Details of evidence collected are entered in case notes, evidence/data management systems, and where appropriate, in the exhibit register 3.4 Movement of exhibits for examination occurs according to organisational procedures to ensure continuity, security and integrity of the evidence 3.5 Verbal and written summaries/reports are made in accordance with agency requirements |
4. Coordinate the analysis process |
4.1 Team approach to an examination is used to ensure all parties conduct examination prior to any damage occurring 4.2 Appropriate sequencing of evidence examination is followed 4.3 Technical specialists are appropriately briefed regarding range of tests/examinations of the evidence sought to be undertaken 4.4 Feedback and advice is received from technical specialists regarding range of tests/examination outcomes of the evidence as relevant, suitable or practicable 4.5 Results are interpreted in consultation with technical specialists 4.6 Data is documented and report is finalised in accordance with agency and legal requirements 4.7 Retention/disposal of evidence is completed according to agency requirements |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Required Skills |
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Required Knowledge |
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Evidence Guide
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
Assessment must confirm the ability to maximise the evidentiary value of physical evidence according to agency requirements by:
Consistency in performance Competency should be demonstrated over time and across a range of workplace and/or simulated situations. |
Context of and specific resources for assessment |
Context of assessment Competency should be assessed in the workplace and/or in a simulated workplace environment. Specific resources for assessment Access is required to:
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Guidance information for assessment |
Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this unit may include a combination of:
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Range Statement
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. |
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Physical evidence may include: |
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Observation techniques and technological methods may include: |
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Recording physical evidence may include: |
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Technical specialists may include: |
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Quality and quantity of samples includes: |
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Labelling of evidence may include: |
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Packaging and storing physical evidence may include consideration of: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Not applicable.