This unit involves the skills and knowledge required to use taxi cab communications systems by applying established communications principles and practices for taxi drivers.

It includes identifying features of taxi communications system and operating it effectively, using appropriate communications protocols and communicating with a base. It also includes identifying faulty communications equipment operation and taking appropriate action, and using technical and colloquial language and vocabulary in day-to-day communications.

Communication systems are used in accordance with codes/regulations and workplace requirements relevant for using taxi communications systems in the taxi industry.

Safety checks and equipment tests are performed with limited or no supervision, and with full accountability and responsibility for self and others in achieving the prescribed outcomes.

This unit meets part of the certification requirements for obtaining taxi driver accreditation. As requirements may vary between states and territories, people seeking taxi accreditation should contact their state/territory taxi regulator.

ELEMENTS

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

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

1

Identify features of taxi communications system

1.1

Features and functions of taxi radio system are identified

1.2

Features and functions of taxi computer dispatch system are identified

1.3

Features and functions of taxi duress alarm system are identified

2

Operate taxi communications system

2.1

Checks are carried out to confirm communications system is operational in accordance with manufacturer instructions and workplace procedures

2.2

Communications system is used in a manner consistent with road laws and safe driving practices

2.3

Communications security is maintained in accordance with workplace procedures

3

Use appropriate communications protocols

3.1

Received messages are interpreted and recorded as required in accordance with workplace procedures

3.2

Messages are transmitted clearly and precisely with due observation of ethics and protocols required of users

3.3

Incoming messages are received and are answered promptly and courteously within operating procedures and regulatory requirements

3.4

Clear, unambiguous vocal communication is used in accordance with operating procedures, language requirements and codes

3.5

Appropriate protocols and procedures are followed when using communications systems in emergencies

4

Maintain communications equipment operational status

4.1

Equipment is checked and monitored in accordance with workplace procedures

4.2

Minor faults in communications systems are identified, diagnosed and repaired or reported in accordance with workplace procedures

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least one occasion and include:

carrying out minor routine monitoring procedures for communications equipment

communicating effectively with others when using communications systems in a taxi, including during transmission and at receipt of information, in a manner consistent with road laws and safe driving practices

communications systems including:

computer dispatch

mobile phone – on person or hands-free

vehicle mounted radio

security equipment, including duress alarm and camera

completing documentation related to using communications systems in a taxi

identifying, reporting and/or rectifying problems that may arise when using communication systems in a taxi in accordance with workplace procedures

monitoring communications equipment operational status

operating and adapting to differences in equipment in accordance with operating procedures

operating taxi and other electronic communications systems effectively and to required protocol

reading, interpreting and following relevant operating instructions, procedures, information and signs

responding appropriately to cultural differences in the workplace

undertaking pre-operational checks for communications systems and equipment

using communications systems in emergencies

working systematically with required attention to detail without injury to self or others, or damage to goods or equipment.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:

basic barriers to effective communication and how to overcome them

basic communication techniques including the phonetic alphabet

basic principles of effective communication, which includes:

active listening

two-way conversation

questioning to obtain information and/or to clarify information and understanding

routine oral reporting

features of various communications systems such as:

taxi radio systems

taxi computer dispatch systems

taxi duress alarm systems

procedures and protocols for using communications systems in an emergency

relevant codes of practice and legislative requirements including local regulations

relevant work health and safety (WHS)/occupational health and safety (OHS) and environmental procedures and regulations

workplace procedures and policies for using communication systems in a taxi.

As a minimum, assessors must satisfy applicable regulatory requirements, which include requirements in the Standards forRegistered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

As a minimum, assessment must satisfy applicable regulatory requirements, which include requirements in the Standards forRegistered Training Organisations current at the time of assessment.

Assessment must occur in workplace operational situations where it is appropriate to do so; where this is not appropriate, assessment must occur in simulated workplace operational situations that replicate workplace conditions.

Assessment of this unit must be undertaken on actual taxi radio equipment.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Resources for assessment include:

a range of relevant exercises, case studies and/or simulations

applicable documentation including workplace procedures, regulations, codes of practice and operation manuals

relevant materials, tools, equipment and personal protective equipment currently used in industry including:

taxi communications equipment

taxi duress alarm system.