Unit of competency details

Release 

TP version 

Comments 

2

PUA12 V1

Layout adjusted. Application revised.

1

PUA00 V8.1

First release in TGA.

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. Prepare vehicle for operational response 

1.1 The vehicle  is selected to meet operational requirements and is suitable to use in the terrain.

1.2 Preliminary check of the vehicle is completed to ensure it is serviceable.

1.3 Equipment and accessories are checked to ensure they are available and serviceable.

1.4 Cabin drill  and start up checks  are completed in accordance with operational standards.

1.5 Engine is started in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 

1.6 Audible and visual warning systems are checked to ensure that they are all operational.

2. Drive the vehicle 

2.1 Vehicle is prepared for, and safely operated in terrain suitable to the vehicle.

2.2 Vehicles and/or trailers are operated and positioned in accordance with traffic regulations and organisation's policies and procedures and to ensure safe and efficient operation.

2.3 Low risk driving techniques are used which minimise the likelihood of injury to persons or damage to equipment or property and in accordance with the organisation's policies and procedures.

3. Monitor traffic, road and terrain under operational conditions 

3.1 Vehicle movement is controlled in response to external conditions to ensure safety of persons.

3.2 The most efficient route of travel is taken through monitoring factors likely to cause delays or route deviations.

3.3 Traffic and surface conditions  are consistently monitored and acted upon to enable safe operation and ensure no injury to people or damage to property, equipment, loads and facilities.

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

Required Skills 

• low risk driving techniques
• monitor and anticipate traffic hazard

Required Knowledge 

• ancillary equipment
• appreciation of automotive systems
• emergency vehicle requirements and regulations
• knowledge of emergency vehicle inspection procedures
• knowledge of equipment and accessories
• local area knowledge
• traffic legislation
• traffic rules and regulations
• vehicle operating procedures

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

It is essential for this unit that competence be demonstrated in a practical demonstration of driving skills. Maintaining personal safety, safety awareness and awareness of traffic conditions and other road users is critical.

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 

Competency must be demonstrated in a simulated operational situation under varying conditions.

Specific resources for assessment 

Assessment of this competency will require access to a relevant vehicle.

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.

Vehicles  may include:

• all types of operational vehicles
• tankers
• troop carrier
• rescue vehicles
• buses
• bulk water carrier
• all terrain vehicles
• pumpers
• aerial appliances
• communication vehicles
• command /control vehicles

Operational conditions  may include:

• non-emergency driving
• emergency response driving
• off-road driving
• hazardous environmental conditions
• driving in special environments (e.g. on actual airport movement areas)
• prevailing weather
• time of day/night
• visibility
• recovery

Considerations  may include:

• procedures
• traffic conditions
• levels of emergency response
• adverse weather
• traffic regulations
• warning devices
• adverse terrain
• type of vehicle
• adverse surfaces

Cabin drill  may include:

• adjustment of seats
• seatbelts
• mirrors and steering
• radio on
• all crew seated/restrained
• dash layout
• gauges
• warning lights

Start-up check  may include:

• fuel
• coolant
• oil
• pump
• water
• equipment/locker security
• visual inspection of vehicle
• operation of emergency warning devices (lights/sirens)
• crew intercom
• physical check or scan of gauges

Instruments/gauges  may include:

• warning lights
• tachometer
• temperature
• electrical charging
• systems indicators (high beam
• turn signals
• parking brakes)
• speedometer
• oil pressure
• brake warning lights
• audible warning devices
• water tank level indicator

Relevant legislation and procedures  may include:

• traffic regulations
• organisation policy and procedures
• accident procedures
• emergency parking
• possession of appropriate licence

Manufacturer’s specifications  may include:

• engine characteristics
• systems warning functions
• radius of turning circle
• safety procedures
• horsepower rating
• maximum vehicle weight
• fuel capacity for range
• clearance height
• engagement procedures
• no-spin locking differential
• anti-lock braking systems

Traffic conditions  may include:

• parking
• traffic pattern and density
• known peak traffic periods and community functions and events
• effect of weather on roads
• road surface
• visibility