Specification Iq Level 4 Award in Covert
Specification Iq Level 4 Award in Covert
Specification Iq Level 4 Award in Covert
Specification
Contents Page
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Introduction
This specification is intended for trainers, centres and learners. General information regarding centre approval, registration,
IQR (IQ’s candidate management system), assessment papers, certification, reasonable adjustments, special
consideration, appeals procedures, are available from the website. This document should be read in conjunction with the
IQ QMS Centre guide available from the website.
Recognition
This qualification was developed in collaboration with ISS Training Limited, with support from The Surveillance Group and
CROPS Surveillance Training & Operations.
Version Number
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up to date version. To check which version you have please see the footer which will give you the version number.
The IQ Level 4 Award in Covert Surveillance Operations (Intermediate) is a qualification designed to develop and provide
formal recognition of learners’ knowledge, understanding and competence of surveillance techniques. Surveillance is the
monitoring of the behaviour, activities or other changing information, usually of people for the purpose of intelligence
gathering as part of an investigation into unlawful or illegal activity, or for enforcement activities. The qualification introduces
learners to the essentials of covert surveillance and provides them with a progression route to the larger Advanced Award
or Certificate sized surveillance sector qualifications, which expand further on the knowledge and skills covered in this
qualification and additional aspects of covert surveillance.
This qualification is aimed at those who wish to gain a recognised qualification, whether they are new to the investigative
or enforcement sectors or they have a professional background in a related field and intend to engage in continuing
professional development. The skills developed in the qualification will be relevant to the private investigation sector and
to individuals with a military background carrying out resettlement training prior to civilian life.
All learners will cover the mandatory topics including the principles of types of surveillance, log keeping, third party
awareness, radio communication, managing dynamic changes, planning and debriefing, legal issues and organising foot
and mobile surveillance.
Objective
Purpose
B. Prepare for further learning or training and/or develop knowledge and/or skills in a subject area
B2. Develop knowledge and/or skills in a subject area
Sector
Structure
To achieve this qualification learners have to achieve all 4 units in the Mandatory Group.
Mandatory Group
This is an estimate of the total length of time it is expected that a learner will typically take to achieve and demonstrate the
level of attainment necessary for the award of the qualification i.e. to achieve all learning outcomes. TQT is comprised of
Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and an estimate of the number of hours a learner is likely to spend in preparation, study or
any other learning including assessment, which takes place as directed by, but not under the supervision of a lecturer,
supervisor or tutor. If a credit value is assigned to a qualification it is determined by TQT, as one credit corresponds to 10
hours of learning.
GLH are all times when a member of provider staff is present to give specific guidance towards the learning aim being
studied on the programme. This definition includes examinations, lectures, tutorials, and supervised study. It does not
include hours where supervision or assistance is of a general nature and is not specific to the study of the learners. It is
the responsibility of training centres to decide the appropriate course duration, based on their learners’ ability and level of
existing knowledge. It is possible, therefore, that the number of GLH can vary from one training centre to another according
to learners' needs.
Delivery
The qualification is both knowledge and competence based and it is delivered through a variety of methods. Competence
based learning will be delivered via face-to-face practical sessions, based either in the class room or in a suitable
environment where learners may observe the skills being taught and put their knowledge into practice. Knowledge based
learning is delivered via face-to-face classroom/workshop teaching. Distance learning through e-learning or hard copy
resources for the underpinning theory and knowledge elements of the qualification is permitted but cannot be the sole
method of delivery.
Learners will at all times have access to tutor assistance through email, Skype or telephone (at the minimum).
Assessment
This qualification is assessed using an IQ Assessment Workbook. This is internally marked and verified by the centre,
using the provided marking guidance, and externally quality assured by IQ. All assessment criteria must be achieved. The
qualification is not graded; successful learners achieve a pass.
Knowledge based assessment criteria are assessed by short answer questions, written exercises and research tasks as
identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook. Competence based assessment criteria are assessed by observations
including delivering briefings, presentations, the carrying out of practical surveillance activities, completion of logs,
photographic/video portfolio assignments and assessor checklists. A portfolio including all of the evidence must be
attached as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Simulation is permitted for all competence based assessment criteria, using simulated work based scenarios in a realistic
environment.
Across the surveillance sector, a variety of specialist terminology is in use depending upon the voice procedures of specific
organisations. However, the Home Office provide a range of generic terminology in common use in the sector. See
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms Used in Surveillance Voice Procedures.
This qualification is regulated by Ofqual and approved for learners aged 18+ in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern
Ireland.
Learners must be able to work at Level 3 or above. They will need to have a reasonable level of fitness in order to undertake
practical surveillance activities. It is the centres responsibility to assess candidates at enrolment to ensure that this level
of qualification is appropriate for them; ensuring that learners can work, have sufficient maturity, and also that they have
sufficient capabilities in the English language at this level.
If English is not the learner’s first language, they should hold a suitable internationally recognised qualification e.g.
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (or equivalent). It is preferable but not mandatory that learners
are able to drive and hold a valid driving licence, but if not they must have the physical and medical means to be able to
learn to drive in future.
Centres must keep a record of the initial assessment for quality assurance purposes, including written evidence and/or
scanned/photocopied documents as required. They must complete an enrolment form for each learner which identifies the
evidence which has been taken/reviewed, deemed sufficient to justify course entry and signed and dated. This form will
be reviewed as part of standard QA procedures. Evidence must be retained in accordance with current data protection
legislation.
Progression
Learners can progress to the IQ Level 4 Award in Covert Surveillance Operations (Advanced) or the IQ Level 4 Certificate
in Covert Surveillance Operations. These similarly named qualifications form a suite and learners can use units already
achieved towards the relevant progression qualification. Learners will be able to progress in their career as a surveillance
operative or can choose to take a variety of related qualifications including in rural surveillance, private investigation,
technical counter surveillance, photography and store detection.
If learners progress to the IQ Level 4 Award in Covert Surveillance Operations (Advanced) or the IQ Level 4 Certificate in
Covert Surveillance Operations, they must register within 6-12 months of certification if they intend to use units already
taken in this qualification (via the process of RPL). This suite of qualifications has been designed to offer a path of
progression and a longer period of time between them would pose the risk of skills lapsing. If 12 months have elapsed
since certification, then learners will be required to take all the necessary units again as required to meet the rules of
combination. During this period of time learners must also have been actively engaged in the surveillance industry.
1) Trainer(s)
Individual(s) responsible for assisting learners to develop knowledge and practical skills throughout the learning
programme. The role therefore includes: Provision of lessons/ learner support, training/ sign off during observations and
the assessment of learner responses within the IQ Assessment Workbook- using the provided marking guidance.
• Appropriate teaching qualification: e.g. Level 3 Award in Education and Training, PTLLS (12 credits), Level 4
Certificate in Education and Training, Army Instructional Techniques (AIT) or equivalent Royal Airforce/Royal
Navy training offered by the Defence Centre of Training Support (DCTS)
• Minimum of THREE years surveillance sector experience in the last ten, in a commercial, military or police context
which directly involved carrying out mobile and foot surveillance
• Evidence of relevant continuous professional development (CPD)
• Appropriate assessor qualification: e.g. Level 3 Award in Assessing Vocationally Related Achievement, Level 3
Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement (etc.) OR be supported by someone who holds an assessor
qualification
• A qualification or evidence of formal training in surveillance. Examples include:
o Security service, HMRC, Police or other Enforcement Agency, Special Reconnaissance Regiment,
training to Police Level 1 Standard
o IQ Level 4 Organisation Award in Covert Urban Surveillance Operations and Techniques
o IQ Level 4 Organisation Award/Certificate in Managing Surveillance Operations
o IQ Level 4 Organisation Award in Management and Advanced Surveillance
Individual(s) responsible for the internal verification of the IQ Assessment Workbook, including all questions and tasks
associated with the relevant units.
• Appropriate IQA qualification: Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and
Practice, Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice
(etc.) OR be supported by someone who holds an IQA qualification
• Surveillance sector experience in a commercial, military or police context which directly involved carrying out
mobile and foot surveillance
• Evidence of relevant continuous professional development (CPD)
Please Note: Whilst centre personnel may be approved for both roles, those assigned the role of Trainer/ Internal
Verifier are not permitted to operate in both of these roles for any candidate.
Centre Requirements
Centres must be approved by IQ in order to offer this qualification. They must have the necessary equipment and access
to facilities to be able to deliver this qualification, including but not limited to: vehicles, cameras, surveillance technology,
radio equipment, indoor and outdoor training locations.
Estimated TQT: 16
Estimated GLH: 12
Level: 4
Unit Description: This unit is divided into five outcomes and is designed to provide learners with the fundamental knowledge, skills and understanding required to perform the role of a
Surveillance Operator when operating as part of a team. The unit will underpin the definition of the role and responsibilities that the covert operator will undertake.
2.2 Analyse communication requirements for Communication Requirements: Network discipline and control, long messages, relaying messages,
surveillance operations scanners and radio hams, map spotting, code word systems: click system, identity codes, phonetic
alphabet, spectrum mapping, other organisations’ codes, methods of communication: alternative
methods of communications: cell phones, car to car radios, hand signals, text messages.
3. Be able to organise a 3.1 Analyse information required for planning Surveillance Information: Surveillance subject: name, address, family, associates routines, telephone
surveillance operation and deliver a surveillance operation number, mode of transport, awareness level, previous surveillance operations. Descriptions: age,
a surveillance plan build, clothing, distinguishing marks, elevation, face, gait, hair, I.C Code. Identity Codes: ethnic
description: initiating a surveillance: surveillance triggers: static observations, van, cars, covert cars,
footman, helicopters, audio transmissions, video transmissions, informants, tracking equipment.
3.2 Produce a plan for a surveillance Surveillance Planning: Physical reconnaissance: planning the start point: map & aerial recce, physical
operation recce, sketch plans, trigger positions, routes in & out, team rendezvous, emergency rendezvous, drop
off points & pick up points, hazards – hostile, written evidence: recce report, recce sketch plan,
logistical and resource requirements; establish aim, length of operation, size of team & composition,
resources; radios, vehicles, cameras, specialists.
4. Understand how to minimise 4.1 Explain how to minimise risk to personal Personal Safety: Safety awareness: personal safety, recognising threats, safety on foot, safety in
personal risk during surveillance safety vehicles, managing confrontation, first aid, third party awareness.
operations
4.2 Evaluate how a surveillance operator can How Surveillance is Compromised: Targets awareness levels: those who are un-aware, those who
be compromised are totally aware, those who are semi-aware, avoiding third party awareness: acting naturally, having
a reason for being there, adopting an identity, being observant, having a cover story, keeping
equipment covered, informing the police, causes of compromise: multiple sightings, loss –v- gain, un-
natural behaviour, neighbourhood watch scheme, risk assessment.
4.3 Analyse the principles of Loss -v- Gain Loss-v-Gain: Principles, pros and cons, client instructions, aims and objectives, decision making.
4.4 Produce a health and safety risk Health and Safety Risk Assessment: Identify Hazards, who might be harmed, evaluate risks, control
assessment for a surveillance operation measures, record findings, review, dynamic risk assessment
5. Be able to present a 5.1 Deliver a surveillance operation Surveillance Operation Planning: Research subject, analyse subject, demonstrate confidence in
surveillance operation to a presentation to a team subject matter, understand principles, develop plan.
surveillance team Surveillance Operation Presentation: Subject matter, produce presentation, incorporate training aids,
deliver accurately, confirm training and respond to questions.
5.2 Review presentation content Presentation Review: Consider presentation elements, overview, what went right, what went wrong,
constructively what would you do differently, improvements, things to remember.
5.3 Debrief the team following a surveillance Debriefing: Surveillance de-briefings; intelligence, operational, exposure levels (heat stakes),
operation personnel and vehicles, new procedures, actions on, forward planning.
Delivery
Learners are taught how to carry out a covert surveillance by different methods and the reasons why it is used. Learners are also taught the composition of a surveillance team and the
importance of their appearance and dress sense for the environment in which they are working and to have the correct equipment to carry out their task. Learners acquire the knowledge to
correctly operate a surveillance radio and communicate using standard voice procedures, phonetic alphabet and simple security codes thus enhancing teamwork. They are taught how to plan
and deliver briefings and are made aware of the importance of personal safety and carrying out risk assessments in order to minimise risk to the surveillance team and the general public. The
learner is also required to research a surveillance related topic, produce a lesson plan and deliver the presentation to the class.
Assessment
This unit is assessed using an IQ Assessment Workbook. This is internally marked and verified by the centre, using the provided marking guidance, and externally quality assured by IQ. All
assessment criteria must be achieved. The unit is not graded; successful learners achieve a pass.
Knowledge based assessment criteria are assessed by short answer questions, written exercises and research tasks as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Competence based assessment criteria are assessed by observations including delivering briefings, presentations, the carrying out of practical surveillance activities, completion of logs,
photographic/video portfolio assignments and assessor checklists. A portfolio including all of the evidence must be attached as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Simulation is permitted for all competence based assessment criteria (2.1, 3.2, 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3) using simulated work based scenarios in a realistic environment.
Estimated TQT: 14
Estimated GLH: 11
Level: 3
Unit Description: This unit provides the knowledge required in order obtain authority to carry out surveillance if acting on behalf of a Public Body and the relevant current legislation and
procedures. It covers how to gather and record evidence in a lawful, just and fair manner and preserve the integrity of such evidence to be accepted by the Courts, the pitfalls and issues of
eyewitness testimony and the capabilities of using photographic equipment in support of conventional surveillance, in particular, obtaining images of Subjects in a covert manner to be used in
evidence. Upon completion of the unit, learners should be able to express an understanding of the key skill areas such as accuracy, timing and the correct procedures whilst writing surveillance
logs during surveillance operations. Learners will also have experience in using covert cameras.
2. Be able to participate in taking 2.1 Identify methods of taking covert images Identify Methods: Practise, sweeping, shooting from hip, actors, looking through, random shots,
covert images and video subject towards you, observe, move fast, think ahead, smile, anticipate, mobile phones, covert
cameras.
2.2 Produce covert images during a Covert Images: Cover story, avoid eye contact, cameras to silent, camera lights, collateral intrusion,
surveillance exercise avoiding ‘chimping’, test shots, fast shutter speeds, depth of field, high ISO, exposure, practise.
3. Understand the legalities of 3.1 Evaluate the legalities of using and Legalities: Trespass, data protection, property interference, necessity, proportionality, Association of
using and deploying GPS tracking deploying trackers British Investigators Policy on Tracking
devices
Delivery
This unit is classroom study based with practical exercises carried out in the field. Training must be conducted in an appropriate room suitable for the number of learners and trainers. It should
be equipped with the standard resources found in a training environment and should comply with current health and safety requirements. Specialist equipment and resources/training aids
specific to this unit should be utilised such as:
Assessment
This unit is assessed using an IQ Assessment Workbook. This is internally marked and verified by the centre, using the provided marking guidance, and externally quality assured by IQ. All
assessment criteria must be achieved. The unit is not graded; successful learners achieve a pass.
Knowledge based assessment criteria are assessed by short answer questions, written exercises and research tasks as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Competence based assessment criteria are assessed by observations including delivering briefings, presentations, the carrying out of practical surveillance activities, completion of logs,
photographic/video portfolio assignments and assessor checklists. A portfolio including all of the evidence must be attached as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Simulation is permitted for all competence based assessment criteria (1.4, 1.5 and 2.2), using simulated work based scenarios in a realistic environment.
Estimated TQT: 12
Estimated GLH: 10
Level: 4
Unit Description: This unit provides learners with the fundamental knowledge of how to carry out covert surveillance as a member of a foot surveillance team. It covers the basic methods and
procedures used in order to gather evidence whilst communicating effectively by surveillance radios in order to establish effective teamwork and the importance of personal appearance and
dress sense for the environment in which they are working. The unit also covers the mechanics and techniques used in anti-surveillance whilst on foot, how to recognise and establish whether
a surveillance target is carrying out anti surveillance measures and how to counter them in order to prevent the compromise of surveillance operations. Upon completion of the unit, learners
should be able to express an understanding of the key skill areas such as foot surveillance, teamwork, communications and anti-surveillance.
Delivery
This unit is classroom study based with practical exercises carried out in the field. Training must be conducted in an appropriate room suitable for the number of learners and trainers. It should
be equipped with the standard resources found in a training environment and should comply with current health and safety requirements. All practical exercises should be conducted in a
suitable urban town centre environment which has been assessed for health and safety issues. Specialist equipment and resources/training aids specific to this unit should be utilised such as:
Assessment
This unit is assessed using an IQ Assessment Workbook. This is internally marked and verified by the centre, using the provided marking guidance, and externally quality assured by IQ. All
assessment criteria must be achieved. The unit is not graded; successful learners achieve a pass.
Knowledge based assessment criteria are assessed by short answer questions, written exercises and research tasks as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Competence based assessment criteria are assessed by observations including delivering briefings, presentations, the carrying out of practical surveillance activities, completion of logs,
photographic/video portfolio assignments and assessor checklists. A portfolio including all of the evidence must be attached as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Simulation is permitted for all competence based assessment criteria (1.2 and 1.3), using simulated work based scenarios in a realistic environment.
Estimated TQT: 19
Estimated GLH: 17
Level: 4
Unit Description: This unit provides learners with the fundamental knowledge of how to carry out covert surveillance as a member of a mobile surveillance team operating in vehicles. It covers
the basic methods and procedures used in order to gather evidence whilst communicating effectively by surveillance radios in order to establish effective teamwork. The unit also covers the
mechanics and techniques used in anti-surveillance whilst mobile, how to recognise and establish whether a surveillance target is carrying out anti surveillance measures and how to counter
them in order to prevent the compromise of surveillance operations. Upon completion of the unit, learners should be able to express an understanding of the key skill areas such as mobile
surveillance, teamwork, communications and anti-surveillance.
1.2 Demonstrate the basic tactics used in Mobile Surveillance Basic Tactics: Trigger positions, plot up positions, false starts, directions, control
mobile surveillance and positioning, handovers, losses, change of direction, stops, navigation, video positions, housing,
reporting, logging.
Foot and Mobile Surveillance: Drop off and pick up: when, deployment, radio check, equipment,
control, radio discipline, pick up, foot check.
1.3 Coordinate mobile surveillance exercises Mobile Surveillance Exercises: Observe practical mobile surveillance exercises, coordinate
requirements: trigger positions, plot up positions, false starts, directions, control and positioning,
handovers, losses, change of direction, stops, navigation.
2. Understand mobile anti- 2.1 Distinguish between ‘anti-surveillance’ Anti-Surveillance: What a person would personally do to detect surveillance.
surveillance measures and ‘counter surveillance’ Counter Surveillance: Using a third party (person or team) to detect the surveillance of a ‘principal’.
2.2 Analyse mobile anti surveillance Mobile Anti Surveillance Measures: Covert and overt drills, U turns, challenges, one ways, reflections,
measures alternating speeds, change from urban to rural areas, lane hopping, false indication, jumping lights,
roundabouts, frequents stops.
Times of Awareness: Rising above baseline, prior to activity, during, post activities, returning to haven,
by routine.
2.3 Evaluate the options available for Options: Continue, deviate, evade, trap, challenge and arrange for counter surveillance.
someone being followed
Delivery
This unit is divided into two outcomes and is designed to provide learners with the fundamental knowledge of organising and carrying out a surveillance in a mobile surveillance team. Learners
are taught the basic methods and procedures of mobile surveillance used in order to gather evidence whilst communicating effectively by surveillance radios, in order to establish effective
teamwork. Learners are also taught how to deploy from their surveillance vehicle during changing circumstances within the surveillance.
In addition, learners are taught the mechanics and techniques used in anti-surveillance whilst operating by vehicle. They are taught how to recognise and establish whether a surveillance
target is carrying out anti surveillance measures and how to counter them in order to prevent compromise of surveillance operations.
Assessment
This unit is assessed using an IQ Assessment Workbook. This is internally marked and verified by the centre, using the provided marking guidance, and externally quality assured by IQ. All
assessment criteria must be achieved. The unit is not graded; successful learners achieve a pass.
Knowledge based assessment criteria are assessed by short answer questions, written exercises and research tasks as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Competence based assessment criteria are assessed by observations including delivering briefings, presentations, the carrying out of practical surveillance activities, completion of logs,
photographic/video portfolio assignments and assessor checklists. A portfolio including all of the evidence must be attached as identified in the IQ Assessment Workbook.
Simulation is permitted for all competence based assessment criteria (1.2 and 1.3), using simulated work based scenarios in a realistic environment.
Resources
Training
Centres may use their own, or published learner support materials in delivering the qualification. Whatever support
materials centres choose to use, they should ensure that their delivery methodology adequately prepares the learner for
assessment. IQ endorses published training resources and learner support materials by submitting the materials to a
rigorous and robust quality assurance process, thus ensuring such materials are relevant, valid and appropriately support
the qualification.
Useful Websites
Adobe www.adobe.com
https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation-gdpr
Suggested Reading
Open Source Intelligence Techniques by Michael Bazell, CreateSpace Publishing, ISBN: 978-1530508907
Blackstone's Guide to the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 by Simon Kay, Oxford University Press, ISBN: 978-0198801757
Data Protection: A Practical Guide to UK and EU law by Peter Carey, Oxford University Press, ISBN: 978-0198815419
Covert Surveillance and Property Interference. Revised Code of Practice 20/09/2018, Home Office Publications, ISBN:
978-1786557124
The following is a glossary of surveillance terminology as defined by the Home Office. It is general to the industry, not
exhaustive and does include any specialist codes which may vary depending upon the surveillance team or organisation.
ADVANCE WARNING Given in the text of ‘Advance Warning - traffic lights’ or ‘Advance Warning ‘T’
junction’ etc.
BACKING Used by the Back-Up vehicle when they are ‘Backing’ the Eyeball and in a
position to take.
BRAKE ACTION Sometimes used to state that the target is braking.
BUS REQUEST To be used instead of the term ‘Bus Stop’ in order to eliminate confusion.
CAN YOU AT…? Asking the backing C/S to handover at a specific place.
CAN YOU NOW? Initiates the actual handover.
CANCEL MY LAST Ignore my last message.
COME THROUGH Given after ‘Hang Back’ to bring convoy through.
COMMITTED, COMMITTED Means the target is committed to travelling on a dual carriageway or
motorway.
CHECK, CHECK Used instead of STOP STOP when it is obvious that the halt is only a brief
one, such as a person on foot window shopping or someone being dropped
off from a vehicle.
COMPLETE Returned or Inside. E.g. ‘India Complete’ indicates that the car, call sign India
has all of their foot person back in the vehicle. Also used to indicate when a
person has entered a building etc.
CONVOY All vehicles comprising the surveillance team.
CONTACT CONTACT Used when contact is regained after a total loss. Not to be used in military
terms.
FOXTROT When someone is walking they are referred to as going ‘Foxtrot’.
GOING ROUND AGAIN Indicates that target vehicle is commencing a second, or subsequent circuit
of a roundabout.
GONE…. Indicating movement, i.e. ‘Gone Left Left.’ Or ‘Gone towards…’
HANDLING The person driving a vehicle is said to be ‘Handling’.
HOLD BACK Transmission from Eyeball, indicating to convoy that they should ‘hold back’
as the target vehicle is slowing and may stop.
HELD Indicates temporary stop by target vehicle, and will normally be followed by
an explanation why they are being held, i.e. held at traffic lights, pedestrian
crossing, traffic congestion etc.
INTENDING States in which direction the subject is pointing or intending (indicating) to
move or likely to travel.
I HAVE… Used to indicate that an operator has control of the target and will provide a
commentary. Normally prefixed with their call sign.
LOOK ALIKE Used to alert the team there is a similar vehicle/person in the vicinity close
to the target. Used to avoid following the wrong person.
LEFT, LEFT Indicates that the target vehicle has turned left.
LIGHTS AWAY At night, if you are unsure that it is the targets vehicle that has moved, Lights
Away is called in order for another operator to check and confirm that it is
the target.
LIMA CHARLIE Loud & Clear, a response to a radio check.
MANOEUVRING Indicating that the target vehicle is manoeuvring within a car park or confined
area as the terms ‘left’ or ‘right’ are only used as they exit etc..
MAKING GROUND Call from another C/S who is attempting to get back to the team after being
detached.
MOBILE Indicates that the target is moving in a vehicle.
NEARSIDE, OFFSIDE INDICATION. States nearside/offside indicator is operating on the subject vehicle.
NO DEVIATION Used when the subject is committed to the same road without turning. ‘Still
Straight’ is also used.
NOT ONE, NOT TWO, ETC. Indicates that the target vehicle negotiating a roundabout has passed first,
second etc. exit. ‘No Entry’ roads are not counted as exits.
NO LONGER BACKING Call from the Back Up to the Eyeball to let them know that he is not in a
position to actually ‘back’ due to being held or blocked. This prevents the
Eyeball from asking for a handover and getting a ‘no’ response.
ONE UP, TWO UP, ETC. Indicating the amount of people in a vehicle.
ORIGINAL The term used when the target has resumed moving after a stop and is
continuing in the Original (same) direction prior to the stop.
OPTION Indicates a possible turning or route that that subject can go. I.e. ‘2nd Option
on the nearside’ rather than saying ‘Left’.
OUT, OUT Indicates that the target is alighting from a vehicle or is leaving premises.
RECIPROCAL Indicates that target had done a ‘U’ turn and is returning BACK along the
same route. Sometimes abbreviated to RECIP.
PERMISSION Where an operator asks Eyeball for ‘Permission’ to interrupt the commentary
to pass on a message. Commentary should not be interrupted without
Permission.
POSSIBLE To be used on a Standby if you are unsure (50/50) that the person seen is
the target. The team should not react but be alert until confirmed.
PROBABLE To be used on a Standby if you are unsure that the person seen is the target
but it is 90% that it is. The team should react and check to confirm.
RADIO CHECK Request from Eyeball to test comms with the remainder of the team. Call
signs should respond in alphanumerical order.
ONE EIGHTY (1800) Sometimes used instead of ‘Reciprocal’.
EYEBALL REGAINED Indicates target again in view, following temporary loss or temporary
unsighted.
ROGER Used to acknowledge a message.
RELAY The vehicle with the responsibility of relaying or repeating the eyeballs
messages. A car normally relays a foot persons messages.
RIGHT, RIGHT Indicates that target vehicle has turned right.
SO FAR? When the transmitting long messages, the term “So Far” is used to break up
a message.
STAND DOWN Indicates cancellation of whole operation.
STOP, STOP, STOP Indicates that target vehicle has stopped in circumstances other than a ‘held’
situation.
STILL STRAIGHT Used when the subject is committed to the same road without any deviation.
STANDBY, STANDBY Instruction issued by Trigger, alerting the team to possible movement of the
target. Also used when contact is regained after a total loss.
SUBJECT Person who is the subject of the surveillance. Target is not to be used.
Identifier codes can also be used.
TAKEN FIRST, TAKEN SECOND ETC. Indicates that target vehicle has taken first, second, etc. exit off roundabout.
TAIL END CHARLIE Rearmost vehicle in convoy. ‘TRAIL’ is also used.
TRIGGER Term used for the Eyeball prior to movement at the Stakeout phase.
TEMPORARY UNSIGHTED Indicates a temporary loss of eyeball, due to terrain, traffic or other
conditions.
TOTAL LOSS A total loss will normally be followed by a search procedure to regain the
subject.
TOUCH RED A call asking a team member to 'double tap' his brake pedal so that operators
behind can see his position at night.
UNSIGHTED TO ME Indicates that the subject is out of your view and the eyeball is up for grabs.
WAIT Used to tell operators should not to transmit for the time being and to wait
for a further transmission.
The normal radio term “STAND BY” has a clearly defined meaning within
surveillance and this should never be used instead of ‘Wait’.