ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Detect and record physical evidence

1.1 Physical evidence is detected using observation techniques and appropriate technological methods

1.2 Latent evidence is detected by physical or chemical means

1.3 Physical evidence is recorded prior to examination in accordance with standard procedures

1.4 Recording methods are identified to document the physical evidence in accordance with standard procedures and within resource limitations

1.5 Documented record of the physical evidence is produced in accordance with standard procedures

2. Collect physical evidence

2.1 Physical evidence is collected to prevent contamination or loss in accordance with standard procedures

2.2 Samples collected are sufficient in quantity, where possible, to allow all potential examinations/analysis to be carried out

2.3 Samples collected are sufficient to represent the natural variation that occurs in the physical evidence

2.4 Control reference samples are collected where available and appropriate

3. Package physical evidence

3.1 Items are packaged and stored to maintain continuity and prevent degradation or contamination

3.2 Physical evidence is packaged in accordance with work health and safety guidelines

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

Required Skills

analyse items of physical evidence

apply operational safety

apply resource management

apply time management

collect, package and preserve specific evidence types

communicate orally and in writing

handle exhibits and preserve continuity of evidence

make decisions in relation items of physical evidence

solve problems in relation items of physical evidence

use specialised evidence recording equipment as required

Required Knowledge

application and limitations of forensic investigative techniques

legislative, policy, and quality system requirements for search and the seizure of physical evidence

legislative, policy, and quality system requirements for the collection, preservation, continuity and disposal of physical evidence

legislative, policy and quality system requirements for the security, protection and preservation of the physical evidence

legislative, policy, and quality system context in which forensic examinations are conducted

WHS practices to be followed when recording, collecting and packaging physical evidence

range of techniques available for recording, collecting, packaging and preserving physical evidence

required documentation for recording and collecting of physical evidence

role and functions of other forensic discipline specialists in recording, collecting, preserving and continuity of physical evidence

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

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

maximise the potential evidentiary value of the evidence

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated over time and across a range of workplace or simulated situations.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed on the job or in a simulated work environment.

Specific resources for assessment

There are no specific resource requirements for this unit.

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

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.

Physical evidence may include:

Any and all objects that are gross or microscopic in size, living or inanimate, solid, liquid or gas, including explosives, biological tissue, debris, arisings and documents

Detecting evidence may include:

Chemical

Optical

Physical

Latent evidence may include:

Explosive chemistry

Fingerprints

Invisible evidence until it is enhanced in some way

Standard procedures may include:

Legislative or procedural requirements to maintain the chain of evidence or meet specific investigative requirements

Recording methods can be:

Audio recording

Computer generated data

Digital imaging

Global positioning system (GPS)

Hand written notes

Photographic

Physical capture

Sketches

Video recording

Collecting physical evidence may include:

Hand picking (including use of forceps, gloves)

Swabbing

Sweeping

Tape lifting

Vacuuming

Natural variation refers to:

Diversity of characteristics that occurs in all items of physical evidence

Control reference samples refers to:

Control samples which represent background contaminants

Samples collected from a known source

Packaging and storing may include:

Drying of wet exhibits

Exhibit labels

Packaging medium

Physical nature of exhibit

Stability (explosives)

Storage temperature

Tamper evident seals