Elements and Performance Criteria

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. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.
Assessment of level and nature of risk should include analysis of the following:
known information about circumstances of incident
known information about people involved in incident
observation of the environment and physical conditions
nature of the incident
available resources and team backup
communication channels
range or response options available
potential and triggers for escalation or defusing.
Identified opportunities may include:
lapses in concentration
distractions
opportunities for escape
access to weapons
presence of support.
Defensive techniques may include:
avoidance techniques and withdrawal
self-defence
empty hand techniques
stunning techniques
take-downs
use of defensive equipment
use of chemical agents
containment and isolation
canine deployment.
Legal requirements include:
applicable Crimes Acts and regulations
duty of care under criminal and civil law
use of force guidelines
licensing arrangements
relevant federal, and state or territory legislation.
Alternative actions may include:
tactical withdrawal
use of negotiation techniques
request and wait for assistance.
Defensive equipment may include:
batons
handcuffs and restraint equipment
individual aerosol chemical agent
body belt
hobbles
security chain link
restraining mattress
temporary plastic handcuffs (flexicuffs).
Effects of stress can include:
inability to concentrate
uncoordinated movements
over-talking
frustration
increasing aggression
tiredness.
Stress management techniques may include:
critical incident debriefing
informal exploration of incidents with team members and supporters
counselling
review of practice and resources.

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.
Overview of assessment
Assessment of this unit can be applied using a combination of training outcomes and performance in the workplace, with the principal evidence developed through performance in routine work functions in the workplace.
Where this unit specifies performance in areas with unpredictable and risk implications, assessment in simulations should be used as well as retrospective documentation and observation of performance working with high risk offenders and in a range of different environments where incidents occur.
Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms:
the knowledge requirements of this unit
the skill requirements of this unit
application of employability skills as they relate to this unit
ability to control incidents using defensive equipment and tactics in a range of (two or more) contexts or occasions, over time.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Valid assessment of this unit requires:
a workplace environment or one that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered when controlling incidents using defensive equipment and tactics, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine
copies of legislation, policies, procedures and guidelines relating to the use of force and the use of defensive equipment and tactics
access to appropriate learning and assessment support when required.
Method of assessment
Evidence must include observation and information generated in the workplace as well as observation of performance in routine work functions or, where this is not possible, in a simulated exercise to confirm the transferability of the competencies.
The following assessment methods are suggested:
observation of performance in routine workplace activities within a range of agreed responsibilities and in various work locations
written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding
completion of workplace documents and reports produced as part of routine work activities
third-party reports from experienced practitioners
completion of performance feedback from supervisors and colleagues
scenarios
simulations or role plays.
Guidance information for assessment
Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, and any identified special needs of the candidate, including language and literacy implications and cultural factors that may affect responses to the questions.
In all cases where practical assessment is used it will be combined with targeted questioning to assess the underpinning knowledge.