This unit of competency involves the skills and knowledge required to plan, activate and maintain a communications network in routine and operational situations. It informs the roles and responsibilities of individuals who plan, activate and maintain a communications network.

The unit is applicable to emergency services personnel, conservation and land management agencies, tourism operators, search and rescue operators, local government agencies, contractors and volunteer organisations.

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

Identify operational communication needs

1.1

Operational communications considerations and requirements are identified, based on operational needs

1.2

Operational and task information is used to determine communication network and equipment requirements

1.3

Agencies, organisations and individuals involved in the operation are identified

1.4

Established arrangements and equipment for communication are identified

1.5

Hazards and environmental conditions likely to impact on communication are identified, assessed and controlled

2

Establish communications plan

2.1

Communications plan is prepared based on identified operational communication needs

2.2

Appropriate communication strategies and equipment are included in the communications plan and network

2.3

Personnel are briefed on communications plan details

2.4

Communications plan is implemented, monitored and modified to meet changes in operational situation

3

Activate and maintain communication network

3.1

Prior to activation of the communications plan the communication network is set up and tested, with faults identified and addressed

3.2

Communication network is activated

3.3

Communication network performance is monitored, analysed and adjusted to ensure effective and efficient communications

3.4

Communication network is modified to meet changes in operational situation and network capacity

4

Terminate communication network

4.1

Communication network is closed, in accordance with organisational policies, procedures and operational requirements

4.2

Communication network is dismantled and refurbished, in accordance with organisational procedures and manufacturers' guidelines

4.3

Maintenance requirements are recognised, recorded and reported, in accordance with organisational procedures

4.4

Operational documentation is completed, in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

4.5

Efficiency of the communications plan and network is reviewed

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.

State/Territory Emergency Services

SES Sector