This unit of competency involves the skills and knowledge required to record and document physical evidence collected at a fire scene and to coordinate the analysis of physical evidence to meet organisational requirements.

The unit focuses on developing and applying a systematic approach to the recording and documenting of physical evidence collected at a fire scene and the coordination of the analysis. It is relevant to specialist fire investigators, it does not address the technical and forensic analysis of evidence.

The fire sector is those sections of government departments, statutory authorities or organisations that have responsibility under jurisdictional arrangements for the delivery of firefighting and fire management services.

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

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Inspectscene and determine investigationplan

1.1

Authority to access and inspect fire scene is obtained or verified, through approved channels

1.2

Work, Health and Safety (WHS)/Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements are implemented, in accordance with organisational procedures

1.3

Incident scene security is confirmed, in accordance with organisational requirements

1.4

Fire scene is inspected

1.5

Evidence is identified using appropriate observation techniques and technological methods

1.6

Evidence collection plan and recording processes are established, in accordance with organisational procedures and legislative requirements

2

Collect and record physical evidence

2.1

Items of physical evidence are recorded, in accordance with organisational procedures, prior to collection

2.2

Liaison with technical specialists and other organisations is initiated, in accordance with organisational procedures, regarding the appropriateness, collection, preservation, handling and transportation of evidential samples to be collected

2.3

Evidence is collected and/or preserved in situ, in accordance with organisational procedures

2.4

Quality and quantity of samples are collected to ensure accuracy and sufficiency of evidence

2.5

Evidence is labelled and documented, in accordance with organisational requirements to ensure continuity of evidence

3

Store, process and transport evidence

3.1

Physical evidence is packaged and stored, in accordance with organisational procedures, to maintain continuity and to prevent degradation, contamination and spoliation

3.2

Documentation is completed for handling or possession of evidence, in accordance with evidentiary requirements and organisational procedures

3.3

Details of evidence collected is entered in case notes, evidence and/or data management systems and, where appropriate, in the exhibits register

3.4

Movement of exhibits for examination is undertaken, in accordance with organisational procedures to ensure continuity, security and integrity of evidence

3.5

Verbal and written summaries or reports are made, in accordance with organisational procedures

4

Coordinate the analysis process

4.1

An examination is undertaken of evidence prior to any damage or deterioration occurring and includes relevant stakeholders

4.2

Sequencing of evidence for examination is followed, in accordance with organisational procedures

4.3

Technical specialists are briefed regarding range of tests or examination of evidence to be undertaken

4.4

Feedback and advice is obtained from technical specialists regarding range of tests or examination outcomes of evidence

4.5

Results are interpreted in consultation with technical specialists, where required

4.6

Data is documented, and a report is finalised, in accordance with organisational procedures

4.7

Retention and/or disposal of evidence is completed, in accordance with organisational procedures and legal requirements

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Non-essential conditions may be found in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide.

Fire

Fire