Unit of competency Outline

Information current as of
14/09/2026 6:39 AM AWST

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Undertake initial search and rescue actions

Undertake initial search and rescue actions

Unit of competency
National Code
POLSAR021
State Code
OFK74
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Pending
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
30/07/2026
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
Original Release Date
30/07/2026
Nominal Hours
Field of Education
091105 - Police Studies
Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to conduct initial search and rescue (SAR) actions, including identifying search areas and conducting briefings when commencing SAR operation.This unit applies to those working as police staff involved in police SAR.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 resource deployment, conducting briefings and debriefings and work health and safety (WHS).Those undertaking this unit would work autonomously and within teams while remaining responsible for reporting to senior staff. They would perform a range of complex tasks and demonstrate adaptability across a broad range of contexts, either in the field or within police station/office environments.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
General notes
N/A
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan initial SAR actions
  • 1.1 Identify mission to conduct SAR operation
  • 1.2 Assess resources required to facilitate SAR operation
  • 1.3 Determine initial actions and resource deployment in accordance with nature of SAR incident
  • 1.4 Facilitate sharing of information with stakeholders to progress SAR operation.
2. Identify search area
  • 2.1 Identify last known position of the subject(s)
  • 2.2 Define and calculate the initial search area using maps/charts to commence initial SAR operations
  • 2.3 Apply search planning models to the search area
  • 2.4 Determine probability of detection and coverage for allocation of resources.
3. Conduct initial SAR activities
  • 3.1 Determine appropriate resources based on required tasks/ allocation
  • 3.2 Deploy resources to carry out initial actions
  • 3.3 Adapt response based on assessment and monitoring of SAR operation
  • 3.4 Negotiate resource acquisition to facilitate SAR operation
  • 3.5 Prioritise tasks to maximise efficiency and effectiveness of resources.
4. Conduct briefings
  • 4.1 Assess and collate information to develop briefings
  • 4.2 Identify relevant stakeholders to inform of the incident
  • 4.3 Deliver briefing to facilitate flow of information
  • 4.4 Communicate required follow-on actions for ongoing coordination of SAR operation.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
ODO03 POLSAR017 Undertake initial search and rescue actions Unit of competency
No information