Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) Driver

Qualified Inflatable Rescue Boat Drivers are responsible for safely operating the IRB in the surf zone and managing the IRB Crew. Candidates will develop the skills and knowledge to effectively drive and manage an Inflatable Rescue Boat (IRB) in surf rescue operations.

Key Course Outcomes:

Understand the roles and responsibilities of an IRB Driver, including 

• List the duties of an IRB Driver
• List the safety considerations when operating an IRB
• Provide direction to an IRB Crewperson in all their operational duties
• Communicate effectively with crewperson, the public and patients in the normal performance of duties

Drive an IRB 

• Identify the components of an IRB motor
• Launch an IRB safely and efficiently
• List motor hazards in the surf
• Safely and efficiently negotiate the surf while driving an IRB
• Perform emergency procedures

Perform rescues in an IRB as a Driver 

• Perform conscious and unconscious casualty pick-ups
• Perform complex rescue operations
• Contribute to search and rescue operations; liaising effectively with other emergency response services as required

Prepare and maintain an IRB motor 

• Perform pre-operational checks and preventative maintenance of the IRB motor
• Perform post-operational maintenance of the IRB motor
• Perform motor re-start procedure after immersion in the surf
• Report major wear or damage according to organisational procedure

Assessment

Assessment is through demonstration, presentation and application of all elements of competency in the workplace. Participants will be required to complete activities that may include role-plays, oral and written questioning, practical demonstrations and performing scenarios.

Accreditation

Units of competency for this course include PUAEQU001 (Prepare, maintain and test response equipment) and PUASAR014 (Operate and maintain a small powercraft and motor for rescue operations). These units are also part of the nationally recognised qualification PUA30319 Certificate III in Public Safety (Aquatic Search and Rescue)