Surveillance equipment includes radio communication equipment and electronic equipment used to record observations during the surveillance. It also involves being aware of the possible use by targets of counter surveillance technologies (scanners).

This competency is one in a series specialising in on-land surveillance. Other units include:

SFICOMP402C Plan the surveillance operation

SFICOMP404C Operate an observation post

SFICOMP405C Perform post-surveillance duties

SFICOMP406C Perform mobile surveillance.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Operate and maintain surveillance equipment

1.1. Surveillance equipment is selected, operated and maintained according to jurisdictional policies, procedures and laws and operational requirements.

1.2. Security of equipment and communications is maintained throughout the surveillance operation.

1.3. Photographs and video footage are produced that meet surveillance operational requirements.

1.4. Covert communication attachments are correctly connected, utilised and operated.

1.5. The possible use by subjects of scanner/interceptor equipment is identified and the appropriate response is made.

2. Participate in the establishment and use of surveillance communication protocols

2.1. Communications equipment appropriate to the transmission distances required for the surveillance operation is selected.

2.2. Radio communication channels appropriate to the surveillance operation are identified and used.

2.3. Secure coding equipment and secure transmission nodes are used appropriate to surveillance operational requirements.

2.4. Communication is clear, concise, accurate, timely and relevant using surveillance terminology as appropriate.

Required skills

using cameras and video equipment to produce photographs and video footage that meet surveillance operational requirements

using communication equipment whilst undertaking surveillance operations.

Literacy skills used for:

applying surveillance communication protocols

maintaining a running sheet

reading manufacturer guidelines for operating and maintaining surveillance equipment.

Numeracy skills used for:

calculating time and distances

establishing settings/channels used in camera work and communications.

Required knowledge

communication protocols

evidentiary requirements

film types and their application for a range of surveillance requirements

legislative requirements relating to surveillance work and tendering evidence in court

local knowledge relevant to surveillance operations

maintenance requirements for surveillance equipment

operational procedures for surveillance equipment

surveillance methods.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

operate surveillance equipment to provide communications support to the surveillance operation

record observations to a standard that meets surveillance objectives and jurisdictional evidentiary requirements.

Assessment must confirm knowledge of:

communication protocols

camera techniques.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Assessment is to be conducted at the workplace or in a simulated work environment and should include the range of surveillance equipment used in the jurisdiction.

Resources may include:

surveillance plan

surveillance equipment required for surveillance method.

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested:

demonstration

portfolio of photography and video footage

questions.

Guidance information for assessment

This unit may be assessed holistically with other units within a qualification.

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, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Surveillance equipment may include:

any equipment available in the operational circumstances, such as:

CCTV equipment

communications equipment

infrared technology

night vision technology

other surveillance equipment:

portable radio

repeaters or any other communications device

SLR camera

tracking equipment

vehicle radio

video camera.

Jurisdictional policies, procedures and laws may include:

legal requirements for tendering surveillance product to a court

legislation relevant to the agency and its officers in the performance of their duty

occupational health and safety (OHS) guidelines and procedures

standard operational procedures (SOPs).

Operational requirements may include:

availability

communications security

location

topography.

Unit sector

Fisheries compliance

This unit contains employability skills.