Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit covers the competency required to perform static surveillance covertly on a subject.

Application of the Unit 

This unit is applicable to workers within the intelligence environment.

Application of this unit involves static surveillance on a subject using appropriate cover, distance and timing to minimise risk of exposure and to maintain subject control.

The unit also requires personnel to identify and use a range of observation points, to use appropriate dress items and props during static surveillance, to develop and maintain plausible cover stories, and to conduct covert intelligence gathering.

Employability Skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit /s 

Nil

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 Required Skills and Knowledge and/or the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Identify suitable covert observation points 

1.1 Surveillance techniques  are applied to lessen the risk of compromise during reconnaissance of locations

1.2 Static positions are strategically chosen to optimise coverage of the subject

1.3 Observation points  are selected to minimise the chance of exposure or compromise

1.4 Alternative observations points are identified to accommodate a range of contingencies

2. Employ static surveillance 

2.1 Static surveillance techniques are employed to ensure operational security and safety

2.2 Range of plausible cover stories  appropriate to appearance and the surveillance environment is used to enhance effectiveness

2.3 Appropriate techniques are used to communicate covertly

2.4 Surveillance equipment is concealed or disguised to prevent exposure or compromise

2.5 Situational awareness is displayed when entering/exiting static surveillance posts to minimise risks of compromise

2.6 Operative safety is monitored and assessed in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

3. Gather intelligence and evidence 

3.1 Surveillance techniques are employed to collect intelligence covertly during static surveillance

3.2 Intelligence is gathered and maintained in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required Skills 

• analyse situations to identify appropriate choice of surveillance equipment, cover story, props and observation posts or surveillance distance
• develop a range of plausible cover stories and dress, and behave appropriately in a covert surveillance operation
• perform a range of verbal and non-verbal communications and use appropriate body language
• use and adapt cover props

Required Knowledge 

• anti-surveillance techniques
• counter surveillance techniques
• ethical practice and cultural issues relevant to surveillance operations
• foot surveillance systems
• functions, limitations and effectiveness of props
• role and function of other agencies that conduct surveillance
• security issues and classifications
• surveillance principles and techniques
• theory and practice of cover, distance and timing

EVIDENCE GUIDE 

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

• identify suitable covert observation points
• employ static surveillance
• gather intelligence.

Consistency in performance 

Competency should be demonstrated in the workplace or in a simulated surveillance context.

Context of and specific resources for assessment 

Context of assessment 

Competency should be assessed over time in a range of workplace or simulated surveillance situations.

Specific resources for assessment 

Access is required to:

• image capturing and recording equipment
• communications or other equipment.

Method of assessment 

In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.

Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.

Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:

• direct observation
• interviewing the candidate
• journals and workplace documentation
• third party reports from supervisors
• written or oral questions.

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.

Surveillance techniques may include 

Approach to and dealing with hazards

Awareness of unwanted attention (third party)

Buildings

Carrying out a manoeuvre

Covert

Doorways

Entering a building

Leaving a building

Line of sight (obscure in relation to the target)

Non-threatening position in relation to the subject

Parked vehicles

Pedestrians

Positions may include one or more locations that allow for control of the subject/s

Observation points may include 

Long-term observation posts from covert premises or other locations

Short-term observation points from vehicles or other locations

Short-term observation points while on foot

Cover stories need to be 

Able to undergo scrutiny

Appropriate to the environment

Plausible

Relevant

Vague (in order to prevent further interest)