Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 1:40 PM AWST

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Use firearms

Use firearms

Unit of competency
National Code
CSCSAS017
State Code
AUZ14
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
25/01/2021
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
17/12/2015
Field of Education
099905 - Security Services
Original Release Date
17/12/2015
Nominal Hours
120
Description
This unit describes the skills required to assess the need to use firearms, handle and discharge firearms and evaluate responses post-incident.This unit applies to those working with offenders in prisons and secure custodial centres. With changes based on different organisation’s needs, it can apply to specialist emergency units, escort services, specialist roles and to workers in the community where this function is part of the work role.The skills and knowledge described in this unit must be applied within the legislative, regulatory and policy environment in which they are carried out. Organisational policies and procedures must be consulted and adhered to, particularly those related to discharge of firearms.Those undertaking this unit work independently as part of a coordinated team. The role requires strong communication and decision making skills. No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Assess the need to use firearms
  • 1.1 Analyse incident to assess the need for the use of firearms against the degree and nature of risk to people, the organisation’s use of force guidelines, and emergency response procedures.
  • 1.2 Anticipate risk, based on assessment of information available, observation of the hazards in the situation and likely consequences of events.
  • 1.3 Assess and select options for action on the basis of capacity to complete the actions and suitability of response to the degree of risk.
  • 1.4 Identify situations requiring assistance and request support promptly.
2 Handle and discharge firearms
  • 2.1 Carry firearms in a secure, protected and accessible manner that complies with legal requirements and organisation procedures.
  • 2.2 Employ tactical positioning that is consistent with assessment of intentions and risks and anticipates a range of different actions.
  • 2.3 Make judgements about the use of firearms according to use of force guidelines and legal requirements.
  • 2.4 Select ammunition appropriate to firearm that complies with manufacturer specifications and legal requirements.
  • 2.5 Select personal protective equipment according to the requirements of the situation and use it according to organisational procedures.
  • 2.6 Check that grip, handling and presentation of firearms comply with legal requirements and ensure retention and continued control.
  • 2.7 Discharge firearms where necessary according to legislation and organisational policy and procedures.
  • 2.8 Maintain consistency of accuracy in the discharge of firearms as defined by organisational standards and procedures.
3 Evaluate response
  • 3.1 Evaluate and review effectiveness of responses according to information, observation and outcomes of events.
  • 3.2 Provide accurate and constructive observations of incidents in review and debriefing of incidents.
  • 3.3 Complete records and reports that comply with the organisation’s procedures.
  • 3.4 Recognise and manage the effects of stress, using stress management techniques.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
S6023 CSCSAS404A Use firearms Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OEI89 CSCSAS035 Use firearms Unit of competency