CSCSAS008
Maintain security system


Application

This unit describes the skills required to monitor internal and external workplace environment and respond to security alerts.

This unit applies to those working in detention centres, correctional centres or prisons and in community facilities under custodial supervision. Variables will determine different applications of the standards depending on the nature and complexity of security requirements, security ratings and defined work role and responsibilities.

The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those related to security maintenance.

Those undertaking this unit generally work independently, drawing upon support from familiar resources.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.


Elements and Performance Criteria

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. Monitor the internal workplace environment

1.1 Monitor and record the movement of offenders, visitors and team members.

1.2 Check, record and report changes in routine, behaviour, the environment and movements promptly to relevant team members.

1.3 Routinely assess the safety and welfare of all individuals.

1.4 Routinely monitor and check the effective working of equipment and technology and report inaccuracies and malfunctions.

1.5 Use communication and information exchange systems, check their effectiveness and maintain them for the purpose intended.

1.6 Gather and report information necessary for effective surveillance.

2. Monitor the external workplace environment

2.1 Supervise the transfer of offenders.

2.2 Confirm relevant security information and documentation and prepare and verify authorisations.

2.3 Identify and implement security and safety precautions and contingency responses.

2.4 Take into consideration the safety and welfare of offenders, team members and the public at all times and in all actions.

3. Respond to security alerts

3.1 Interpret and respond to alarms.

3.2 Use codes and call systems in communication.

3.3 Assess the risk of escalation of incidents and take appropriate action to minimise risks.

3.4 Complete security and incident reports, records and registers.

3.5 Participate in debriefing and post-emergency analysis.

Evidence of Performance

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 two occasions.

evaluating security situations and making decisions based on evaluation

operating and checking routine activities and equipment for security factors

identifying and reporting problems and faults in security system

using all security equipment required in the work site and consistent with work role, responsibilities and delegation

accessing and recording relevant information into prisoner data systems


Evidence of Knowledge

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.

organisation’s policies and procedures related to security and surveillance

organisation’s emergency response system and procedures

organisation’s codes and alarm signals

access organisation’s records and information system

observation techniques

organisation’s intelligence systems


Assessment Conditions

Evidence should be provided of performance across the range of applications relevant to individual organisations or work sites. Customisation will occur through the introduction of specific organisation security equipment, functions and procedures.

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 monitoring and maintaining the security system, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine.

This unit has been identified by industry as suitable for holistic assessment with:

CSCSAS001 Maintain security

CSCSAS006 Respond to medical emergencies

CSCSAS007 Operate central monitoring station

Refer to advice in the CSC Assessment Guide.

Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.


Foundation Skills

The foundation skills demands of this unit have been mapped for alignment with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). The following tables outline the performance levels indicated for successful attainment of the unit.

ACSF levels indicative of performance:

Further information on ACSF and the foundation skills underpinning this unit can be found in the Foundation Skills Guide on the GSA website.


Competency Field

Safety and security