Release 1. This is the first release of this unit of competency in the CSC Correctional Services Training Package Release 5.0

This unit describes the skills required to assess the need to use firearms, handle and discharge firearms and evaluate responses post-incident.

This unit applies to those working with offenders in prisons and secure custodial centres. With changes based on different organisation’s needs, it can apply to specialist emergency units, escort services and specialist roles where this function is part of the work role.

An individual undertaking this unit works independently as part of a coordinated team. The role requires strong communication and decision making skills.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those related to discharge of firearms.

The application of this unit may require appropriate permits to be obtained to conduct firearms training in some states and territories.

Other licensing, legislative or certification requirements may apply to this unit and may vary across states and territories. Users are required to check with the relevant jurisdiction for current requirements before undertaking this unit.

Not applicable.

Safety and security

Not applicable.

ELEMENTS 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1 

Assess the need to use firearms 

1.1 

Assess the need for the use of firearms against the degree and nature of risk to people, legislation, the organisation’s use of force guidelines, and emergency response procedures

1.2 

Anticipate risk, based on assessment of information available, observation of the hazards in the situation and likely consequences of events

1.3 

Assess and select options for action on the basis of capacity to complete the actions and suitability of response to the degree of risk

1.4 

Identify situations requiring assistance and request support

1.5 

Select personal protective equipment according to the requirements of the situation and use it according to organisational procedures

2 

Handle and discharge firearms 

2.1 

Select ammunition appropriate to firearm that complies with manufacturer specifications and legislation requirements

2.2 

Check that grip, handling, and presentation of firearms comply with legislative requirements and ensure retention and continued control

2.3 

Load and carry firearms in a secure and accessible manner that complies with legislative requirements and organisational procedures

2.4 

Employ positioning that is consistent with assessment of intentions and risks

2.5 

Make appropriate judgements about the decision to use the firearm according to use of force guidelines and legislative requirements

2.6 

Discharge firearms according to legislation and organisational policy and procedures

2.7 

Maintain consistency of accuracy in the discharge of firearms as defined by organisational standards and procedures

3 

Evaluate response 

3.1 

Evaluate and review effectiveness of responses according to information, observation, and outcomes of events

3.2 

Provide accurate and constructive observations of incidents in review and debriefing

3.3 

Complete records and reports that comply with organisational procedures

3.4 

Recognise and manage the effects of stress and trauma on self and of others affected

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Non-essential conditions may be found in the Correctional Services Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide.

This unit replaces and is equivalent to CSCSAS017 Use firearms.

Release 1. This is the first release of this unit of competency in the CSC Correctional Services Training Package Release 5.0

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least two occasions and include:

• interpreting and complying with legislative and procedural requirements related to the use of firearms, tactical response, and defensive techniques
• assessing degree of risk
• using firearms in a safe and responsible manner
• discharging firearm accurately
• applying timely reactions in the use and termination of force
• providing clear verbal warnings, directions, and information
• using appropriate defensive tactics
• using appropriate techniques to avoid creating risk to self or others
• establishing containment and isolation according to situation.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:

• relevant legislation and organisational policies and procedures related to use of firearms
• code of conduct
• duty of care
• available firearms and ammunition
• response options that are most effective for the degree and nature of risk
• communication techniques
• stress management techniques
• risk factors and their impact on incidents and situations
• safe and controlled handling of firearms
• safe and correct use of ammunition
• safe and appropriate use of tactical positions
• collection and return to armoury
• relevant personal protective equipment (PPE).

Assessors must hold credentials specified within the Standards for Registered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

Assessment must satisfy the Principles of Assessment and Rules of Evidence and all regulatory requirements included within the Standards for Registered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

Assessment for discharge of firearm must occur on an organisational approved firearms or simulation range.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Resources for assessment must include access to:

• a range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or simulations
• acceptable means of simulation assessment
• applicable documentation, including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals
• relevant materials, tools, equipment and PPE currently used in industry.