Elements and Performance Criteria

The range of variables places the competency in context and allows for differences between enterprises and workplaces, including practices, knowledge and requirements. The range of variables also provides a focus for assessment and relates to the unit as a whole. The following variables may be present.

Surveillance equipment:
Any equipment available in the operational circumstances and may include:
· communications equipment
· portable radio
· vehicle radio
· repeaters or any other communications device
· other surveillance equipment:
· SLR camera
· video camera
· CCTV equipment
· night vision technology
· infrared technology
· tracking equipment.

Jurisdictional policies, procedures and laws:
· legislation relevant to the agency and its officers in the performance of their duty
· standard operational procedures
· legal requirements for tendering surveillance product to a court
· OHS guidelines and procedures.

Operational requirements:
Means correct choice taking into account:
· availability
· topography
· location
· communications security.

Each unit of competency has an evidence guide that relates directly to the performance criteria and the range of variables. Its purpose is to guide assessment of the unit in the workplace and/or training program. The following components provide information to assist this purpose.

Underpinning knowledge
The essential knowledge and understanding a person needs to perform work to the required standard include:
· film types and their application for a range of surveillance requirements
· operational procedures for surveillance equipment
· communication protocols
· maintenance requirements for surveillance equipment
· surveillance methods
· evidentiary requirements
· local knowledge relevant to surveillance operations.

Practical skills
The essential skills a person needs to perform work to the required standards include:
· 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:
· reading manufacturers' guidelines for operating and maintaining surveillance equipment
· maintaining a running sheet.

Numeracy skills used for:
· establishing settings/channels used in camera work and communications
· calculating time and distances.

Critical aspects of competence
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:
· communications protocols
· camera techniques.

Interdependent assessment of units
This unit may be assessed after/with:
· SFICOMP404B - Operate an observation post.

Context of 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.

Method of assessment
The following assessment methods are suggested:
· observation of demonstration
· portfolio of photography and video footage
· oral questions.

Resources required for assessment
Resources may include:
· surveillance plan
· surveillance equipment required for surveillance method.