Application
This unit describes the skills required to use and deploy a detector dog. It includes selecting and applying a search methodology, deploying the detector dog, conducting follow up search activities, maintaining records, gathering and reporting information, and receiving and acting upon feedback.
This unit applies to those working with canine detector teams conducting and administering searches.
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.
Those undertaking this unit would work as part of a team, performing routine tasks in a range of contexts.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENTS | PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
Elements describe the essential outcomes | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the range of conditions section. |
1. Select and apply a search methodology | 1.1 Choose an approach that maximises the potential outcome of the search. 1.2 Identify likely risks. 1.3 Identify the most appropriate method for deploying the dog, taking into account the task and situation. |
2. Deploy the detector dog | 2.1 Deploy the detector dog in accordance with planned search methodology. 2.2 Manage risks in accordance with risk management policies and guidelines. |
3. Conduct follow up search activities | 3.1 Identify and manage ongoing risks to achieve identified outcomes. 3.2 Question persons of interest. |
4. Maintain records | 4.1 Collect, collate and exchange information relating to searches with other personnel. 4.2 Maintain contemporaneous notes. 4.3 Complete documentation accurately and in a timeframe that meets legislative and organisational requirements. |
5. Gather and report information | 5.1 Use initiative to identify possible information. 5.2 Record relevant information accurately. 5.3 Report information to relevant personnel accurately. |
6. Receive and act upon feedback | 6.1 Seek feedback on search processes. 6.2 Improve processes and approach based upon assessment of feedback received. |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the candidate must demonstrate evidence of performance of the following on at least one occasion.
conducting searches thoroughly in accordance with legal and policy requirements
handling dogs
identifying and addressing work health and safety and environmental risks issues associated with deployment of detector dogs
liaising, consulting and communicating with diverse audiences, conveying sometimes complex information orally and in writing
negotiating and applying conflict resolution
applying observation techniques
accurately recording and reporting information
applying decision making using sound judgment
responding effectively to feedback
suggesting improvements to procedures
Evidence of Knowledge
Evidence required to demonstrate competence must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria. If not otherwise specified the depth of knowledge demonstrated must be appropriate to the job context of the candidate.
risk management principles and risk assessment techniques and the application of diverse circumstances relating to the deployment of detector dogs
principles of detector dog training and deployment
enabling and allied legislation
policy, procedures, guidelines, protocols and work instructions/standard operating procedures
jurisdictional and organisational values/ethics and codes of conduct
the organisation’s corporate planning cycle and risk management policy and practices
confidentiality, privacy and security issues
work health and safety and environment legislation, policies and guidelines
communication systems relevant to the workplace including communications network and radio protocols
equipment operation, usage and maintenance procedures
reporting procedures
evidence handling and storage
profiles and trends
workplace and industry environment
Assessment Conditions
This unit contains no specific industry-mandated assessment conditions. Guidance on suggested and recommended conditions and methods can be found in the Implementation Guide.
Assessors must satisfy the NVR/AQTF mandatory competency requirements for assessors.
Foundation Skills
Foundation skills are embedded within the elements and performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Border protection