PACI GUIDE TRAINING AND ASSESSMENT PROCESS

This site is a gate-way for all professional Guides - you can download and/or access important learning resources to support your career.

All documents are currently free of charge.

If you are enrolled on a PACI Guide course, you must undertake pre-course preparation. By completing as much of the paperwork as you can ahead of time, you get more out of your training in terms of skill proficiency, and long-term memory retention. It will also enable you to spend more time developing your practical skills instead of doing theory in a classroom. Some trainees arrive at the start of their training without any preparation, and try to cram all of their learning only within class contact hours. This is not a wise choice, as it creates stress and pressure to learn and reach competency.

A favorite PACI saying is: "If you fail to prepare, you are preparing to fail."

If you are undertaking Guide training and assessment, please review all of the documents from this web page as part of your preparation. Please DO NOT email anything to PACI. Save all of your files to an electronic device and bring a USB stick. Bring your electronic device to the course (eg laptop computer).

Please ensure that you are using the most current documents (check the Version numbers in the footer code at the bottom of the page).

Hit your refresh button to make sure that you are viewing the latest files (we make changes and update learning support resources on a regular basis).

Most (but not all) of these documents are designed to be completed in electronic pdf format. Some exam papers are not in fillable pdf format - and in such cases, they need to be printed in hard copy (we are working hard to try to convert all exam papers to electronic fillable pdf format - please be patient!. Bring your favourite electronic device to the course along with a notebook and pen. Ensure all files are saved to your electronic device because you will constantly be referring to them! You will need to be able to open and edit Adobe PDF files (there are free pdf file editors available online).

You need to make sure that you have the latest version of Adobe Acrobat reader, as this will ensure that you can open pdf files in their native fillable format.

Please scroll down to view all documents

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Copyright warning

All papers on this website are intellectual property. You do not have permission to link directly to (and host) these documents.

Permission to use PACI intellectual property is a privilege that is granted - it is not a 'right'.

If you are granted permission to use PACI intellectual property, you must still comply with the rules we have set.

Using PACI intellectual property without permission is a crime known as stealing.

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STUDENT HANDBOOK AND CODE OF CONDUCT

Terms and conditions: Download and please read carefully (all students).

The student handbook outlines your responsibilities in the learning process.

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Adobe PDF files: The files on this site are in Adobe PDF format.

NOTE 1

Documents in PDF file format require the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader. It is a free download.

Link: https://get.adobe.com/reader (be sure to select your operating system - eg windows or MAC O/S)

NOTE 2

Some browser software programs do not automatically display Adobe PDF files properly. You may need to use the Adobe plug-in.

If you are experiencing difficulties, please visit the Adobe webpage for assistance here: https://helpx.adobe.com/au/acrobat/kb/pdf-browser-plugin-configuration.html

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To download and save Adobe PDF files, right click and select "Save target as". You will then be asked to select a folder to save the file to. All of these documents are the intellectual property of PACI Pty Ltd. Your 'rights' to use these documents is confined only to your immediate training and assessment. You may not use these documents for commercial gain and/or profit unless prior written contractual terms are agreed upon - and there will be a licence fee. Using PACI intellectual property for commercial gain and/or profit without our consent is a crime known as stealing.

ALL STUDENTS - STUDENT HANDBOOK AND CODE OF CONDUCT Do not email to PACI.
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Student handbook Student signing page (Guides)	1.8 01/Sep/2024 1.0	Mandatory document for all students. This document contains all of the guiding principles for student conduct and behaviour during training. All PACI students must download and read the handbook. Your enrolment on a PACI course is conditional that you agree to, and accept the rules for student behaviour and code of conduct. If you intend to proceed and enrol on a PACI course, you must download and read the student handbook and then sign the 'signing page'.	291 KB

GOVERNMENT / RTO REPORTING REQUIREMENTS (ASQA) All trainee Guides MUST download and complete these documents. Do not email to PACI.
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
			NOTE: All documents are to be sent to your instructor for processing. (Your instructor will advise how files are to be sent).
1	AVETMISS (fillable electronic)	2024 reporting year	Mandatory document for all trainee Guides. Australian Vocational Education & Training management Information Statistical Standard The government collect information from all trainees undertaking nationally recognised training. RTOs are required to collect this information and then upload it to the NCVER website. You MUST complete this questionnaire BEFORE your training commences!	540 KB
2	LLN (fillable electronic)	1.2 23/Jan/2021	Mandatory document for all trainee Guides. This document is designed to assess your current level of literacy, language and numeracy. You MUST complete this self-assessment BEFORE your training commences!	494 KB
3	USI code		Mandatory for all students. You must have a valid USI code. No USI code = no qualification!

PACI MEMBERSHIP AND INDUSTRY REQUIREMENTS Do not email to PACI.
	DOCUMENT	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Membership application	2024	This is a mandatory application for all new applicants, including newly certified GuidesLeaders. All trainee Guides / Leaders (outdoor recreation context) must complete this form. The membership application codifies a person's scope of endorsements and the legal responsibilities for discharging that person's duty at a workplace. All Guides/Leaders are allocated a 'scope' - and they can only work within that defined scope. If you are successful on your course, you will receive the first 12 months membership with PACI free. NOTE: We do not accept hand written applications. You must fill in the electronic version.	2.1 MB
2	First aid + CPR		FIRST + CPR IS MANDATORY. You must have a current certificate in first aid + CPR. The two national units of competency are: [ ] HLTAID011 Provide first aid [ ] HLTAID009 Provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation We need an electronic copy.
3	Passport photo		MANDATORY You must provide a passport photo in electronic .JPG or .PNG format. Same requirement as per an Australian Passport. [ ] only face and neck in image area [ ] no hats or dark glasses [ ] taken against a plain white background [ ] no shadows cast on the surface behind your face - this creates dark areas which are hard to remove from the image. Ensure even / uniform lighting for your photo. Refer to this webpage for further information: https://www.passports.gov.au/getting-passport-how-it-works/photo-requirements

PACI KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS – Exams Do not email to PACI.
	EXAM PAPERS	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
LEGAL NOTICE Most of the content on this web site has been locked down with passwords to prevent theft of intellectual property. We do not recommend that documents are printed in hard copy format – particularly since there is an upgrade cycle of content revision which occurs at regular intervals. All commercial (for profit) use requires a commercial application form to be completed and sent to PACI. Licencing fees will apply. All content is copyright and subject to intellectual property laws. Access to PACI intellectual property is not a right, it is a privilege that is granted. Private/personal use that is not of a commercial nature is entirely free. However, if you are a business or a commercial entity, you must apply to PACI for permission and licencing fees will apply. Send email request to: i-n-f-o-(at)-p-a-c-i-.-c-o-m-.-a-u (remove spaces) Commercial entities (or any use where it is intended to generate an income) must contact PACI to obtain express permission to use this document. Failure to do so is a crime known as stealing. Our anti-fraud procedures require that you also provide proof of your corporate identity including address & telephone contact.
	EXAM PAPERS	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Standards and Procedures exam	3.9 01/Mar/2024	Mandatory exam for all trainee Guides. This exam paper covers all general PACI operating procedures. All Guides are required to complete this exam. It is an open book exam - you may refer to your notes and all online resources. Study guides: [ ] PACI Protocols document (scroll down to view). [ ] PACI membership application (scroll up to view)	60 KB
2	Risk exam	2.1 01/Mar/2024	Mandatory exam for all trainee Guides. Risk management exam. Risk mismanagement is fundamental to all Guides who work with organised groups. Study guides: [ ] Risk webpage: http://www.paci.com.au/risk.php [ ] PACI Protocols (scroll down) Password = copyright (enter if required)	642 KB
3	Knots exam	2.3 01/Aug/2024	Mandatory exam for all trainee Guides - including Guides working on artificial surfaces. Knots are fundamental to all roping systems. Study guides: [ ] PACI knot study guide (scroll down). [ ] PACI Protocols (scroll down) [ ] Knots webpage: http://www.paci.com.au/knots.php [ ] Animated knots: https://www.animatedknots.com/ Password = copyright (enter if required)	4.36 MB
ACTIVITY SPECIFIC EXAMS: Download the exams that are relevant to your scope of activity specialisations. For example, if you are training to be an indoor climbing guide (on artificial surfaces) you obviously don't need to complete any exams that deal with outdoor knowledge and skills!
	EXAM PAPERS FOR NATURAL (OUTDOOR) SURFACES
4	Anchors (natural surfaces)	1.8b 01/Aug/2024	This is a core exam for all Guides who work on natural surfaces. [ ] this exam paper is applicable for all courses conducted outdoors on natural surfaces Password = copyright (if required)	2.21 MB
5	Abseiling	1.9 01/Aug/2024	Complete this exam if you are enrolled on any of the following Guide courses: [ ] Abseiling Guide [ ] Canyoning Guide [ ] Caving Guide [ ] Vertical mobility (self-rescue) [ ] Vertical rescue Password = copyright	1.0 MB
6	Vertical mobility (self-rescue)	2.0 18/Apr/2024	Complete this exam if you are enrolled on any of the following Guide courses: [ ] vertical mobility (self-rescue) [ ] vertical rescue Password = copyright	2.24 MB
7	Mechanical advantage (hauling)	2.6 22/Feb/2024	This is a core exam for all professional Guides. [ ] applicable to all courses conducted outdoors on natural surfaces (also applicable to challenge ropes courses) Password = copyright	2.21 MB
8	Top rope climbing (natural surfaces)	4.8b 01/Aug/2024	Complete this exam if you are enrolled on a Guide course with top rope climbing endorsement (natural surfaces). Password = copyright	12.7 MB
9	Lead climbing natural surfaces (core exam paper - fillable format)	2.1 01/Mar/2021	For Guides specialising in lead climbing (single-pitch). This is a core knowledge exam paper - required for all lead climbing courses on natural surfaces. Password = copyright	1.4 MB
10	Lead climbing natural surfaces Multi-pitch	1.4 22/Aug/2007	For Guides specialising in lead climbing (multi-pitch).	146 KB

	EXAM PAPERS FOR ARTIFICIAL SURFACES AND/OR ARTIFICIAL STRUCTURES
11	Challenge ropes courses	1.7 01/Aug/2024	Mandatory exam paper if you will be working on a challenge ropes course or conducting activities on high elements. Password = copyright	3.7 MB
12	Climbing on artificial surfaces	1.6 10/Jan/2024	Mandatory exam paper if you will be working at an indoor climbing gym or conducting climbing activities on artificial surfaces. Password = copyright	5.62 MB
13	Flying fox (zip lines)	1.0 01/July/2016	Flying fox (zipline) exam. Complete this exam if you are intending to Guide flying fox (ie zipline) activities. (this exam paper is old and is being updated)	296 KB

WRITTEN ASSIGNMENTS
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
Information: An important element of your training includes preparing and handing-in 2 written assignments. These assignments need to be completed outside of course contact hours. All Guides need to have effective risk management skills to discharge their duties at a workplace. Effective risk management skills are also an Australian national competency requirement. Many outdoor recreation activities are regarded as high risk and as such, detailed plans need to be documented to manage those risks in a consistent and effective manner. Furthermore, it is a WHS legislative requirement that risks are identified and controlled at all workplaces.
1	Activity plan (Safe Work Method Statement) Download Template (word.doc) Download template (pdf) Scroll down for learning support materials Download the assessment tool here: Assessment tool		There are 3 mandatory assignments that all trainee Guides are required to complete. These assignments form a major part of your assessment. The assignments are part of the risk management process which all trainee Guides are required to achieve competency. Assignment 1 is the 'SWMS Activity plan'. Plagiarism is expressly forbidden. Assignment content must be your own work and not the work of someone else. Group collaboration is forbidden. Assignments must have your name, date and signature so it can be authenticated. Assignments must be handed-in in electronic 'PDF' format (not Word.doc or Word.docx). Assignments not meeting these criteria will be rejected. NOTE 1: The activity plan is in fact an expanded Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) - and the format and content requirements are identified in the WHS Regulations in all States (harmonised). The activity plan is not to be confused with a 'lesson plan' - it is a documented component of the overall risk management plan. NOTE 2: The activity plan is not intended as a substitute for an employee induction. New employees starting out at a workplace need to be 'inducted' (ie receive an orientation) as to how clients are managed including the particular nuances of how activities are conducted at a particular workplace. Every workplace is different (ie unique) and every employer has their own unique vision as to how business activities are to be conducted. Even highly experienced Guides still need to receive an induction when they commence employment with a new company.
2	Risk assessment Download Template (word.doc) Download template (pdf) Scroll down for learning support materials		Assignment 2 is the 'risk assessment'. Plagiarism is expressly forbidden. Assignment content must be your own work and not the work of someone else. Group collaboration is forbidden. Assignments must have your name, date and signature so it can be authenticated. Assignments must be handed-in in electronic 'PDF' format (not Word.doc or Word.docx). Assignments not meeting these criteria will be rejected. NOTE: All activities that take place at height carry an inherent risk of injury and/or death. WHS legislation in all States require hazards and risks to be identified and controlled at a workplace (it is a legal obligation). All trainee Guides are required to be competent in developing and documenting a risk assessment.
3	Defective equipment report Download template (pdf)	VER 1.0	Assignment 3 is the 'Defective Equipment Report'. You must complete and hand-in 2 defective equipment reports. Download and use this template to complete your reports. The content you enter into the form must be your own work.

PRE-EXISTING QUALIFICATIONS AND CONDITIONS
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Baseline level of skill (you must have an existing level of skill in each of the activity specializations you intend to Guide)		Mandatory Before undertaking professional Guide training, you need to ensure that you have a base level of existing knowledge and skills. You should at least have a 'recreational participant' level of skill in the particular activity specialisation that you want to Guide. For example, if you want to become a Guide with scope in abseiling and top rope climbing, you first need to be able to abseil and climb a route using a top rope belay system. This is what is meant by a 'base level' of existing skill. Your Guide training will significantly build upon your existing skills - refining and enhancing your abilities so that you can operate as a 'Guide'. Higher levels of pre-existing skills will significantly benefit you during Guide training. It means that your instructor has a solid foundation from which to build upon.
2	Health and Fitness		Mandatory. You must be fit and healthy for undertaking professional activities at height. You have a legal duty to disclose any medical condition that could impact upon your ability to discharge your legal duty-of-care when Guiding activities. For example, if you have severe allergic reactions to insect stings that could cause you to go into shock and/or die, you have a duty to disclose. Or, if you have an existing back injury that is incompatible with suspension in a harness, this type of occupation may be unsuitable for you! The last page of the PACI membership agreement has a medical declaration.
3	Minimum age		Mandatory minimum age. In Australia, the minimum legal age is 18 years - this marks the turning point when you are no longer considered to be a 'minor' (ie child). Guides need to sign contracts and give technical advice, which involves a legal concept known as 'tort law'. In a nutshell, you can be held responsible for adverse effects caused by faulty advice or negligent actions. Children can't enter into a contract or take responsibility for adults.

PPE and EQUIPMENT
	ITEM	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Equipment and PPE		You are expected to have all of your own personal protective equipment (PPE) for the course. You have a duty to notify your instructor if you don't have any PPE or need to borrow certain items. This means you must have the following items as a minimum: [ ] harness [ ] helmet (not necessary for indoor climbing) [ ] locking carabiners [ ] belay device (self-locking and/or manual type) Depending on your scope (activity specialisation) you may also require additional items as follows: [ ] gloves [ ] climbing shoes and chalk bag (if you are climbing) [ ] rope (EN1891 certified low stretch abseil rope or equivalent) [ ] rope (EN892 certified dynamic rope) [ ] accessory cord (different lengths eg 5.5mm-8mm diameters) [ ] slings (tape/webbing) [ ] small pulley (to aid in using haul systems) [ ] mechanical ascender / 'Jumar' (recommended) [ ] backpack - to carry all your gear! Clothing and personal comfort: [ ] You should wear clothing that is appropriate to the site and the activity. [ ] You will need adequate sun protection (if outdoors) [ ] You will need a water bottle / hydration pack [ ] You will need to BYO lunch and snacks Learning support materials: [ ] electronic device to download, save and reference pdf files [ ] notebook + pen
2	PAL		Personal Adjustable Lanyard (PAL) All Guides need to have their own personal fall protection kit when working in close proximity to exposed edges (eg cliff edges). The PAL system is used and recommended by most industry professionals. A PAL can be assembled from individual components or it can be purchased in pre-assembled commercial form.

LEARNING SUPPORT MATERIALS
	TITLE	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
LEGAL NOTICE Most of the content on this web site has been locked down with passwords to prevent theft of intellectual property. Students enrolled on a PACI course do not have access to the printable versions. We do not recommend that hard copy versions are printed – since there is a regular update cycle where content is changed. Commercial use (for profit) requires a commercial application form to be completed and sent to PACI. Licencing fees will apply. All content is copyright and subject to intellectual property laws. Access to PACI intellectual property is not a right, it is a privilege that is granted. Private/personal use that is not of a commercial nature is entirely free. However, if you are a business or a commercial entity, you must apply to PACI for permission and licencing fees will apply. Send email request to: i-n-f-o-(at)-p-a-c-i-.-c-o-m-.-a-u (remove spaces) Commercial entities (or any use where it is intended to generate an income) must contact PACI to obtain express permission to use this document. Failure to do so is a crime known as stealing. Our anti-fraud procedures require that you also provide proof of your corporate identity including address & telephone contact.
1	Knot study guide Knots web page (general)	5.9 01/OCT/2024	PACI KNOT STUDY GUIDE Download and review the latest PACI knot study guide. This is a crucial study guide for all courses. Download and save this document to your favourite electronic device (eg laptop). We don't recommend printing this out in hard copy because there are too many pages and you will run out of ink! NOTICE: All PACI documents are copyright and subject to intellectual property laws. You must apply for permission to use PACI intellectual property. Permission to download and use PACI intellectual property is not a right, it is a privilege that is granted. Permission is granted only after an application is made and reviewed - and that you agree to abide by the rules we have set. Password = copyright Our anti-fraud procedures require that you provide proof of your identity including address & telephone contact. Email: i-n-f-o(at)p-a-c-i.c-o-m.a-u (remove spaces) You MUST practice tying knots BEFORE course commencement. You are expected to be proficient in tying knots! You will not be successful if you arrive on day 1 without having practiced any knots (expect to fail). You should try to expand your knowledge of knots beyond the basics! The following knots are considered fundamental to all roped activities at height: [ ] Figure 8 (#1047) - 2 different tying methods [ ] Butterfly (#1053) - 2 different tying methods [ ] Double fishermans (#1415) [ ] Prusik hitch (#1763) - 3 wrap version [ ] Double overhand noose (#409) [ ] Munter hitch (#1195) Additional knots that are also important depending the activity: [ ] Double figure 8 (aka bunny ears) #1085 [ ] Clove hitch (#1245) [ ] Tensionless hitch (#2047) [ ] Klemheist (#1762) - where extra grip is required [ ] Tape knot (#1412) [ ] Secure Bowline (EBSB variant or Scotts locked Bowline) Animated knots is a good if you like to see video/GIF images. It has a ‘play’ button so you can pause, rewind, and go forward, to see how knots are tied. Link: https://www.animatedknots.com/	24.7 MB
2	PACI Protocols	4.9  01/NOV/2024	This is a crucial document. All PACI training is referenced to this master document. This document outlines the protocols which govern all PACI activities at height. This masterwork is released into the public domain in an effort to improve safety and professional standards. You may not use this document for commercial gain and/or personal profit unless prior contractual terms have been agreed upon (ie a licence fee). It is an implied condition of use that users will acknowledge PACI Pty Ltd and Mark Gommers as the author and original copyright holder. PASSWORD = copyright Note: Commercial use or any use that generates a profit will incur licencing fees. Don't print this in hard copy because there are too many pages! If you are a professional Guide or Instructor - you should reference this document for all operating protocols at a workplace. Instructor candidates undertaking training and assessment should also reference this document. Legal notice: No document can be a substitute for competent, experienced instruction. To the maximum extent permitted under Australian law, PACI Pty Ltd and its Directors, employees, agents and business partners do not accept liability for death, injury or damages however caused or contributed to by the use of this document. Any reliance placed on this document is understood to be at your own risk. Uncontrolled copy	63 MB
3	Effect of water on climbing ropes: [ ] Karen Andrew report 2006 [ ] Technical paper on effects of moisture May 2011		These papers provide useful background information about the effects of moisture on dynamic ropes. Original copyright is held by the respective authors. They are not mandatory - they are additional resources to expand your knowledge.
4	Risk study guide Assessment tool	1.2 01 Jul 2017	The risk study guide is an important learning resource. Content includes technical definitions, legal precedents from significant court cases and templates to assist you in developing you own activity plan and risk assessment. PASSWORD = copyright Additional risk management learning resources are located at this link: Risk These additional resources are for expansion of your knowledge beyond the basics. When developing your activity plan (SWMS) and risk assessment, you should be aware of the risks of plagiarism. All trainee Guides are expected to develop their own content based on their own efforts. If you are unsure of plagiarism, please visit these sites: Link: https://student.unsw.edu.au/what-plagiarism Link: http://www.kappanonline.org/cleary-top-10-reasons-students-plagiarize/ Link: http://www.pammarketingnut.com/2010/12/plagiarism-is-for-lazy-birds-27-common-sense-reasons-tips-to-create-your-own-content/	1.1 MB
5	Impact attenuation (floor/ground coverings)		This document provides an excellent overview of the Australian requirements for floor/ground covering at fixed artificial climbing structures. The requirements are based on playground standards. AS 2316.1 has the specification.

TRAINING PACKAGES
	TITLE	CODE	VER	DESCRIPTION	SIZE
1	Outdoor recreation	SIS10	3.1	Outdoor recreation training package (SIS10) These are the Australian national competency standards for Guides working in the outdoor recreation industry. All professional Guides should have a basic understanding and familiarity of these standards. Please review the units that are relevant to you. You will be assessed against one or more of these units (depending on your scope of endorsements). DO NOT PRINT THESE IN HARD COPY! Units of competency (abbreviated): [ ] SISOABS008: Guide abseiling on single-pitch artificial surfaces [ ] SISOABS009: Guide abseiling on single-pitch natural surfaces [ ] SISOABS010: Guide abseiling on multi-pitch natural surfaces [ ] SISOCAY006: Guide single pitch canyoning trips (easier) [ ] SISOCAY007: Guide multi-pitch canyoning trips (advanced) [ ] SISOCLM008: Guide climbing on artificial surfaces [ ] SISOCLM009: Guide top rope climbing activities on natural surfaces [ ] SISOCLM011: Guide lead climbing activities on multi-pitch natural surfaces [ ] SISOCHC003: Lead a high ropes session [ ] SISOCHC004: Supervise a high ropes session [ ] SISOCVE307A: Guide vertical single-pitch caving trips [ ] SISOCVE414A: Guide vertical multi-pitch caving trips

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