Unit of competency details

Unit Descriptor 

This unit covers the competency required to effectively communicate in a surveillance team via portable and vehicle communications equipment.

Application of the Unit 

This unit is applicable to workers within the intelligence environment.

Application of this unit involves communication in a surveillance environment using a variety of communications equipment.

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. Prepare the communications systems in a covert environment 

1.1 Communication modes and equipment  are identified and tested to ensure effective links within the communications net

1.2 Problems in the system are identified and addressed to maintain communication channels in a covert environment

2. Use communication equipment and tools 

2.1 Communication equipment is operated and maintained to ensure effective and efficient communications

2.2 Alternative communication  procedures are identified and utilised

2.3 Communication equipment is used in a covert manner to assist operative/s to minimise the chance of exposure or compromise

3. Communicate effectively in a covert environment 

3.1 Clear, correct, concise, timely and relevant information  is communicated

3.2 Accurate, timely and appropriate listening and response techniques are used to facilitate subsequent action and decision-making

3.3 Communications procedures are implemented in accordance with organisational policy

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

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

Required Skills 

• apply a systematic process in organising and conducting a surveillance operation within limited timeframes and resources
• communicate effectively in writing, in particular provide clear comprehensive, accurate and chronologically sequenced written documentation
• communicateeffectively orally (listen, establish rapport, negotiate, manage conflict)
• maintain and apply operational safety procedures and skills during a surveillance operation
• make decisions and solve problems to accommodate contingencies during surveillance of subjects
• use various modes of communication equipment, radio operation and transmission patterns and secure transmission limitations

Required Knowledge 

• attributes of various modes of communication, radio operation and transmission patterns and secure transmission limitations
• correct interpretation of all applicable laws, policies and procedures
• ethical practice, diversity and cultural issues
• organisational occupational health and safety policies, procedures, guidelines and policy environments within which operations will be conducted
• role and functions of other agencies who conduct surveillance
• security issues and classifications
• surveillance principles and the range of surveillance techniques

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 

• Nil

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

Specific resources for assessment 

Access is required to:

• communications 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.

Communication equipment may include 

Covert attachments

Encryption equipment

Mobile phones

Portable radio

Portable vehicle radio

Repeaters or any other communications device

Vehicle radio

Any equipment available in the operational circumstances

Alternative communication may include 

Use of hand signals

Information may include 

Description of persons, vehicles, places or objects

Intelligence and evidence obtained

Operational information

Operative actions

Subject movements and other events

Warnings to stakeholders