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

Required skills

interpreting and estimating level of conflict and degree of risk

using effective communication and negotiation skills especially under pressure to calm distract or change focus

providing warnings and clear directions and instructions

using communication systems to request assistance if needed

using appropriate reasonable force options to minimise threat to self and others

using defensive equipment for the purpose and in the manner intended and authorised

applying handcuffs and other restraint equipment

applying first aid

Required knowledge

organisations policies and procedures and legal requirements related to use of force use of restraint use of specific defensive equipment and techniques misuse of force and duty of care under criminal and civil law

tactical response within specified legal and strategic limits

response options that are most effective for the degree and nature of risk

principles of communication to reduce the level of threat or conflict

principles of communication to give clear accurate and concise information

risk factors and their impact on incidents and situations

conflict management strategies and techniques

stress management strategies and techniques

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

Overview of assessment

Assessment of this unit can be applied using a combination of training outcomes and performance in the workplace with the principal evidence developed through performance in routine work functions in the workplace

Where this unit specifies performance in areas with unpredictable and risk implications assessment in simulations should be used as well as retrospective documentation and observation of performance working with high risk offenders and in a range of different environments where incidents occur

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

In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria look for evidence that confirms

the knowledge requirements of this unit

the skill requirements of this unit

application of employability skills as they relate to this unit

ability to control incidents using defensive equipment and tactics in a range of two or more contexts or occasions over time

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Valid assessment of this unit requires

a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when controlling incidents using defensive equipment and tactics including coping with difficulties irregularities and breakdowns in routine

copies of legislation policies procedures and guidelines relating to the use of force and the use of defensive equipment and tactics

access to appropriate learning and assessment support when required

Method of assessment

Evidence must include observation and information generated in the workplace as well as observation of performance in routine work functions or where this is not possible in a simulated exercise to confirm the transferability of the competencies

The following assessment methods are suggested

observation of performance in routine workplace activities within a range of agreed responsibilities and in various work locations

written andor oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding

completion of workplace documents and reports produced as part of routine work activities

thirdparty reports from experienced practitioners

completion of performance feedback from supervisors and colleagues

scenarios

simulations or role plays

Guidance information for assessment

Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands and any identified special needs of the candidate including language and literacy implications and cultural factors that may affect responses to the questions

In all cases where practical assessment is used it will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge

Assessment of level and nature of risk should include analysis of the following:

Identified opportunities may include:

Defensive techniques may include:

Legal requirements include:

Alternative actions may include:

Defensive equipment may include:

Effects of stress can include:

Stress management techniques may include: