ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Use radio networks

1.1 Radio network is accessed in accordance with organisational procedures.

1.2 Radio equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.

1.3 Appropriate channels, frequencies and talk groups are allocated, selected and deselected in accordance with organisational policies and procedures.

1.4 Appropriate codes, terminology, pro-words, call signs and abbreviations are used to receive and transmit information.

1.5 Organisational radio protocols are used to transmit and receive messages.

1.6 Radio contact is monitored in accordance with organisational procedures.

1.7 Network is controlled and coordinated to ensure equitable access and prioritisation of operations.

1.8 Network is operated in accordance with relevant legislation and organisational operational requirements.

1.9 Equipment is used safely in accordance with the organisational and manufacturer's instructions.

2. Identify faults in the radio network

2.1 Technical faults in the radio network are identified and appropriateaction is taken.

2.2 Back-upor alternativesystems are utilised when primary system fails or when required.

2.3 Equipment is tested in accordance with organisational procedures.

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

Required Skills

enunciate clearly

communicate effectively

receive messages

transmit messages

use call up sequence

Required Knowledge

basic principles of radio operation

organisational specific communication protocols

phonetic alphabet/figures/language

principal components of radios

radio network/system

radio procedures (call signs, vehicle codes, codes, terminology, pro-words and abbreviations)

readability table

voice procedures

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:

enunciate clearly and concisely

use communication protocols

operate equipment correctly within organisational benchmarks

respond to calls from the field in a timely and effective manner

work effectively in stressful situations

maintain control over the network

operate effectively in routine and peak conditions of operational activity.

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated over time during emergency communications centre operations or simulated operations that include critical and non-critical situations.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment under conditions expected in the workplace.

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to:

alternative technologies

back-up systems

communications protocol handbooks

manufacturers' operating instructions

operations and systems manuals

organisational documentation

primary and back-up/alternative radio network

relevant databases

training databases, where available

training manual

workplace expert/s.

Method of assessment

This unit may be assessed with the following unit:

PUAECO004A Operate computer aided dispatch system.

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.

Radio equipment may include:

antenna

associated computer equipment

portable/mobile radios and attached equipment (microphone)

repeaters (static and portable)

transceivers and attached equipment (foot pedal, microphone)

Organisational policies and procedures may include:

legislation relevant to the organisation

operational, corporate and strategic plans

operational performance standards

operational policies and procedures

organisational personnel and occupational health and safety practices and guidelines

organisational quality standards

organisation's approach to environmental sustainability

Taking appropriate action may include:

identifying technical faults

dealing with identified faults if within own area of responsibility

referring identified faults to supervisor or appropriate personnel

Back up or alternative systems may include:

alternative frequencies and spectrums

alternative networks

landline network

mobile phone network

relay systems

satellite phone