Elements and Performance Criteria

This unit relates to driving vehicles while responding to, or at emergency operations and includes the use of audible visual warning devices. Vehicles may be responding or operating on urban or rural roads, four wheel drive tracks or private roads, or cross country. Drivers will be required to have the appropriate driving licence

Vehicles may include
all types of operational vehicles
tankers
troop carrier
rescue vehicles
buses
bulk water carrier
all terrain vehicles
pumpers
aerial appliances
communication vehicles
command /control vehicles

Operational conditions may include
non-emergency driving
emergency response driving
off-road driving
hazardous environmental conditions
driving in special environments (eg on actual airport movement areas)
prevailing weather
time of day/night
visibility
recovery

Considerations may include
procedures
traffic conditions
levels of emergency response
adverse weather
traffic regulations
warning devices
adverse terrain
type of vehicle
adverse surfaces

Cabin drill may include
adjustment of seats
seatbelts
mirrors and steering
radio on
all crew seated/restrained
dash layout
gauges
warning lights

Start-up check may include
fuel
coolant
oil
pump
water
equipment/locker security
visual inspection of vehicle
operation of emergency warning devices (lights/sirens)
crew intercom
physical check or scan of gauges

Instruments/gauges may include
warning lights
tachometer
temperature
electrical charging
systems indicators (high beam
turn signals
parking brakes)
speedometer
oil pressure
brake warning lights
audible warning devices
water tank level indicator

Relevant legislation and procedures may include
traffic regulations
organisation policy and procedures
accident procedures
emergency parking
possession of appropriate licence

Manufacturer's specifications may include
engine characteristics
systems warning functions
radius of turning circle
safety procedures
horsepower rating
maximum vehicle weight
fuel capacity for range
clearance height
engagement procedures
no-spin locking differential
anti-lock braking systems

Traffic conditions may include
parking
traffic pattern and density
known peak traffic periods and community functions and events
effect of weather on roads
road surface
visibility

Critical aspects of evidence
It is essential for this unit that competence be demonstrated in a practical demonstration of driving skills.
Maintaining personal safety, safety awareness and awareness of traffic conditions and other road users is critical

Interdependent assessment of units
Pre-requisite units: Nil
Co-requisite units: Nil

Underpinning knowledge
traffic rules and regulations
emergency vehicle requirements and regulations
vehicle operating procedures
local area knowledge
knowledge of equipment and accessories
ancillary equipment
traffic legislation
appreciation of automotive systems
knowledge of emergency vehicle inspection procedures

Underpinning skills
low risk driving techniques
monitor and anticipate traffic hazard

Resource implications
Assessment of this competency will require access to a relevant vehicle

Consistency of performance
Evidence should be gathered over a period of time in a range of actual or simulated workplace environments

Context of assessment
Competency must be demonstrated in a simulated operational situation under varying conditions