List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Prepare for construction of visual emergency signals | 1.1 Assess available natural and artificial resources for their application in emergency signalling. 1.2 Examine local area and identify the ground that would afford optimum visibility to searchers but minimum physical effort to the survivor. 1.3 Observe and note sun’s transit to determine the optimum placement of reflective signalling devices. |
2. Prepare emergency signalling devices for use | 2.1 Site and construct groundtoair emergency signals using purpose signal marker panels and/or improvised markers to optimise visibility from the air. 2.2 Site and construct tinsel/Christmas tree devices using artificial resources to optimise visibility from the air. 2.3 Site and construct an emergency signal fire to optimise visibility from the air, considering the prevailing wind’s effect (if any) on smoke trails. 2.4 Site and excavate shadow trenches, considering the sun’s movement. 2.5 Prepare purpose-built signalling devices. |
3. Employ visual emergency signals | 3.1 Initiate an emergency signal fire and utilise fuel to maximise the visual signature. 3.2 Attract search aircraft attention by employing purpose-built signalling devices. 3.3 Interpret and respond to recognition and response signals from search aircraft. |
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
selecting combustible and ‘smoking’ materials
constructing, igniting and maintaining a fire
siting and building a trench symbol, visible from the air at 2000 metres may be a simulated trench if ground is too hard.
siting and constructing a tinsel tree, visible from the air at 2000 metres
siting, constructing and maintaining the fuel and foliage stock for the fire
lighting the fire so that it is well ablaze within 120 seconds and then generating smoke through the application of green foliage
interpreting and responding to recognition and response signals from search aircraft, including :
I require your attention
message received and understood
message received but not understood
follow aircraft in same direction
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
air search/ground search procedures
aircraft recognition and response/international distress signals
Competency should be demonstrated using a range of simulated visual emergency signalling techniques that could be expected in a survival situation with access to emergency signalling devices.
Consideration must be given to holistic assessment with other survival units.
While a person can demonstrate the ability to employ visual emergency signalling techniques, doing so in a survival situation is crucial. Assessment under simulated survival conditions includes:
food restrictions
absence of normal living conditions and amenities
significant period of time
Refer to advice in the companion volumes.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.