Communication and Surveillance Systems
The communication chain
This domain tests radio procedure, report writing, logbooks, surveillance monitoring and escalation. Clear communication is a security control: a late or inaccurate message can turn an incident into a crisis.
Core rules
- Use the assigned call sign, identify yourself and state the problem briefly.
- Use “Over” to end a transmission, “Out” when no reply is needed, and “Roger” to confirm receipt.
- Use “Mayday” only for life-threatening emergencies; use “Pan-Pan” for urgent but non-life-threatening situations.
- Speak slowly, use plain language and avoid unprofessional jargon.
- Record incidents in the logbook with time, place, people, action, outcome and signature.
- Write reports factually; avoid conclusions, insults or guesses.
- Monitor CCTV actively, note suspicious behaviour and preserve evidence.
- Escalate according to post orders; never abandon the radio channel or post.
Worked example
A guard monitoring CCTV sees two people trying a side door. He should not broadcast “some thieves are here.” He radios: “Control, Gate 2, two unknown males attempting the east side door, requesting supervisor and police.” He keeps observing, notes clothing and direction, and preserves footage. The supervisor decides on response.
Traps that cost marks
- Shouting “Mayday” for a routine matter.
- Writing opinions instead of observable facts.
- Leaving the radio channel or post to investigate alone.
- Failing to log time and outcome.