Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 12:11 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Operate and control radio networks

Operate and control radio networks

Unit of competency
National Code
PUAECO003A
State Code
D5483
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
2.00
Current Release Date
17/08/2012
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
18/08/2011
Field of Education
030717 - Plant And Machine Operations
Original Release Date
18/08/2011
Nominal Hours
10
Description
This unit covers the competency required to efficiently operate and control radio networks and equipment.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Use radio networks
  • 1.1 Radio network is accessed in accordance with organisational procedures.
  • 1.2 Radio equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
  • 1.3 Appropriate channels, frequencies and talk groups are allocated, selected and deselected in accordance with organisational policies and procedures.
  • 1.4 Appropriate codes, terminology, pro-words, call signs and abbreviations are used to receive and transmit information.
  • 1.5 Organisational radio protocols are used to transmit and receive messages.
  • 1.6 Radio contact is monitored in accordance with organisational procedures.
  • 1.7 Network is controlled and coordinated to ensure equitable access and prioritisation of operations.
  • 1.8 Network is operated in accordance with relevant legislation and organisational operational requirements.
  • 1.9 Equipment is used safely in accordance with the organisational and manufacturer's instructions.
2. Identify faults in the radio network
  • 2.1 Technical faults in the radio network are identified and appropriateaction is taken.
  • 2.2 Back-upor alternativesystems are utilised when primary system fails or when required.
  • 2.3 Equipment is tested in accordance with organisational procedures.
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 in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.
Radio equipment may include:
antenna
associated computer equipment
portable/mobile radios and attached equipment (microphone)
repeaters (static and portable)
transceivers and attached equipment (foot pedal, microphone)
Organisational policies and procedures may include:
legislation relevant to the organisation
operational, corporate and strategic plans
operational performance standards
operational policies and procedures
organisational personnel and occupational health and safety practices and guidelines
organisational quality standards
organisation's approach to environmental sustainability
Taking appropriate action may include:
identifying technical faults
dealing with identified faults if within own area of responsibility
referring identified faults to supervisor or appropriate personnel
Back up or alternative systems may include:
alternative frequencies and spectrums
alternative networks
landline network
mobile phone network
relay systems
satellite phone
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
Assessment must confirm the ability to:
enunciate clearly and concisely
use communication protocols
operate equipment correctly within organisational benchmarks
respond to calls from the field in a timely and effective manner
work effectively in stressful situations
maintain control over the network
operate effectively in routine and peak conditions of operational activity.
Consistency in performance
Competency should be demonstrated over time during emergency communications centre operations or simulated operations that include critical and non-critical situations.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Context of assessment
Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace environment under conditions expected in the workplace.
Specific resources for assessment
Access is required to:
alternative technologies
back-up systems
communications protocol handbooks
manufacturers' operating instructions
operations and systems manuals
organisational documentation
primary and back-up/alternative radio network
relevant databases
training databases, where available
training manual
workplace expert/s.
Method of assessment
This unit may be assessed with the following unit:
PUAECO004A Operate computer aided dispatch system.
In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.
Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.
Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:
direct observation
interviewing the candidate
journals and workplace documentation
third party reports from supervisors
written or oral questions.
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAZ49 PUAECO003 Operate and control radio networks Unit of competency