Tasmania Police Hobart Station - Architectural & Operational Specifications

The Tasmania Police Hobart Station at 47 Liverpool Street is a four-storey purpose-built facility constructed 2001-2003, serving as Southern Division headquarters. This comprehensive technical reference documents the building's floor-by-floor layout, security systems, operational procedures, and facility specifications across 4,850 square metres. Housing everything from public reception and custody cells to detective workspaces, forensic laboratories, and secure evidence storage, the station operates 24/7 with capacity for 225 personnel, 32 vehicles, and 8 detainees, maintaining detailed protocols for evidence handling, access control, and emergency response.

TASMANIA POLICE HOBART STATION - ARCHITECTURAL & OPERATIONAL SPECIFICATIONS

OFFICIAL REFERENCE DOCUMENT
Tasmania Police Southern Division
Facility Classification: Law Enforcement Headquarters

FACILITY OVERVIEW

Official Address: 47 Liverpool Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000
Secondary Frontage: Argyle Street (staff and operational access)
Land Parcel: Corner site, Liverpool Street / Argyle Street intersection
Building Type: Purpose-built law enforcement facility
Construction Period: 2001–2003
Operational Commencement: March 2003
Total Floor Area: Approximately 4,850 square metres
Building Height: Four storeys above ground plus basement level
Structural Classification: Reinforced concrete frame with masonry infill
External Cladding: Light-coloured render with blue-grey accent panels
Architectural Style: Utilitarian modernist (early 2000s government standard)

Primary Function: Tasmania Police Southern Division headquarters, serving as the operational centre for law enforcement activities across greater Hobart and surrounding southern Tasmania regions.

Operational Capacity:

Sworn officers: Approximately 180 (across all shifts and units)
Civilian staff: Approximately 45
Maximum temporary detainee capacity: 8 cells
Vehicle capacity: 32 bays (basement garage)
Interview rooms: 6 (ground floor)
Operational hours: 24/7/365

SITE CHARACTERISTICS

Location Context:
Central Hobart business district, positioned at the transition zone between commercial core and residential neighbourhoods. Within 500 metres of Salamanca Place, Hobart's waterfront precinct, and State Parliament House.

Site Boundaries:

North: Liverpool Street (primary public entrance)
East: Argyle Street (staff parking and operational access)
South: Adjacent commercial properties
West: Mixed-use buildings

Access Points:

Public Entrance: Liverpool Street frontage, single-door entry with security vestibule
Staff Entrance: Argyle Street side, swipe-card access, connects to basement parking
Operational Vehicle Entry: Argyle Street roller door access to basement garage
Emergency Exits: Four locations (fire code compliance), alarmed when not in emergency use
Delivery/Evidence Transfer: Dedicated bay on Argyle Street side, security-controlled

External Features:

Limited street-level windows (security consideration)
CCTV coverage on all external walls
Concrete bollards at vehicle approach points (anti-ram protection, installed 2016)
Small landscaped area with native shrubs along Liverpool Street frontage
Disabled access ramp at public entrance
Bicycle parking racks (staff use) on Argyle Street side
Flat roof with HVAC equipment and communications aerials

GROUND FLOOR - PUBLIC INTERFACE & OPERATIONS CONTROL

Total Floor Area: Approximately 1,200 square metres

Public Access Zone

Reception & Front Desk

Location: Immediately inside Liverpool Street entrance
Configuration: Curved counter with bullet-resistant glazing partition (installed to ceiling)
Staffing: Two civilian reception officers during business hours (0800–1800 weekdays); one officer after hours
Equipment: Computer terminals (2), telephone system, panic buttons (3), CCTV monitors (4), public address system
Security Features: Reinforced desk structure, lockable cash drawer for payment processing, direct communication to Operations Control Room
Public Interface: Transaction window (30cm height clearance), document pass-through drawer, hearing loop system for accessibility
Waiting Area: 12 seats, bolted to floor, positioned under CCTV coverage
Notice Boards: Community safety information, crime statistics, recruitment materials

Interview Rooms (Ground Floor Suite)

Total Rooms: 6
Configuration: Standard 3m x 3m rooms with table and chairs
Rooms 1-4: Standard interview configuration
- Fixed table (150cm x 75cm, bolted to floor)
- 4 chairs (2 officer side, 2 subject side)
- Audio recording system (ceiling-mounted microphones)
- CCTV camera (ceiling-mounted, PTZ capability)
- Panic button (wall-mounted, officer-side)
- Climate control (individual room thermostats)
- Soundproofing (acoustic wall panels)
Room 5: Child-friendly interview space
- Softer furnishing, age-appropriate seating
- Toy selection (sealed, evidence-grade storage)
- Child psychologist-approved colour scheme
Room 6: Legal consultation room
- Private attorney-client meetings
- No recording equipment (privacy protection)
- External window (frosted glass)
Observation Suite: Adjacent monitoring room with live feeds from Rooms 1-5

Custody Suite

Holding Cells: 8 individual cells
- Dimensions: 2.5m x 3m each
- Furnishing: Fixed concrete bench with thin mattress
- Toilet: Stainless steel unit (no-hanging-point design)
- Lighting: Recessed LED (tamper-resistant)
- Observation: Window in door (reinforced glass) plus CCTV
- Construction: Reinforced concrete walls, steel door
- Ventilation: Forced air system
Custody Sergeant Desk: Central monitoring position with CCTV feeds from all cells
Processing Area: Fingerprinting station, breathalyser equipment, photography backdrop
Property Storage: Secure lockers for detainee belongings
Shower Facility: Single unit for detainee hygiene (supervised access)
Medical Assessment Room: Basic first aid and assessment space

Operations Control Centre

Operations Control Room

Location: Central ground floor position
Size: Approximately 60 square metres
Staffing: Minimum 2 operators per shift (24/7 coverage)
Primary Functions:
- Radio dispatch coordination
- Emergency call triage and deployment
- Real-time officer location monitoring
- Incident logging and tracking
- Resource allocation across Southern Division
Equipment:
- Computer workstations: 4 primary, 2 backup
- Radio communications system (VHF/UHF)
- Telephone system (landline and mobile integration)
- Digital mapping system with GPS tracking
- CCTV monitoring (internal and external)
- Weather monitoring feeds
- Traffic camera access
- Emergency services liaison systems
Wall Displays:
- Large-format digital map of Southern Division
- Unit status board (available/deployed/out of service)
- Priority incident board
- Weather displays
- Time/date displays (multiple time zones)
Security: Swipe-card access, backup power supply, soundproofing

Secure Areas (Ground Floor)

Armoury

Location: Ground floor, interior position (no external walls)
Access: Dual-authentication swipe card system
Authorised Personnel: Armourer, senior command, authorised operational officers
Storage:
- Service pistols (Glock 22 Gen4): 80 units
- Tactical shotguns (Remington 870P): 24 units
- Rifles: 12 units (various models)
- Less-lethal options: 18 units (beanbag shotguns, Tasers)
- Ammunition: Secured in separate internal vault
- Body armour: 45 sets (various threat levels)
- Tactical equipment: Shields, helmets, breaching tools
Features:
- Climate-controlled (ammunition preservation)
- Digital check-in/check-out system
- Video surveillance (all access recorded)
- Alarmed (24/7 monitoring)
- Fire suppression (inert gas system)

Evidence Transfer Room

Purpose: Secure handover point for evidence between officers and forensic services
Features: Airlock-style double-door entry, evidence logging station, temporary secure storage

Support Spaces (Ground Floor)

Staff Entrance & Security Checkpoint

Location: Argyle Street side
Access: Swipe-card entry
Features: Security desk (after-hours verification), locker bank (personal storage), equipment issue point

Equipment Room

Radios, torches, first aid kits, traffic control equipment, crime scene tape, evidence collection kits

Uniform Storage

Clean uniform collection point
Dry cleaning drop-off
Specialist uniform items (riot gear, high-visibility clothing)

Loading Bay

Roller door access from Argyle Street
Evidence transfer point
Supply deliveries
Secure when not in active use

FIRST FLOOR - DETECTIVE DIVISION & INVESTIGATIVE OPERATIONS

Total Floor Area: Approximately 1,250 square metres

Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) Workspace

Detective Shared Workspace (Open Plan)

Configuration: Approximately 600 square metres of open-plan office space
Desk Allocation: 38 workstations with modular dividers
Layout: Pods of 4-6 desks, enabling team-based case work
Equipment per Desk:
- Dual-monitor computer setup
- Ergonomic office chair
- Lockable drawer unit (3 drawers)
- Telephone with secure line capability
- Desk lamp
- Document holder/organiser
Shared Resources:
- Network printers (4 locations): Standard and secure printing
- Scanner stations (2)
- Shredders (3): Standard and cross-cut
- Filing cabinets (wall-mounted, various locations)
- Whiteboards (multiple, movable)
Security Features:
- Clear desk policy enforcement
- Screen privacy filters
- Secure document bins
- Swipe-card access to floor
Amenities:
- Small kitchenette: Sink, kettle, microwave, refrigerator
- Coffee machine (well-used, frequently empty)
- Water cooler
- Coat hooks and personal storage lockers

Senior Detective Offices (Private Offices)

Total Offices: 6
Configuration: Glass-fronted offices along exterior wall
Size: Approximately 12 square metres each
Furnishing:
- Executive desk with return
- Office chair (ergonomic)
- 2-3 visitor chairs
- Filing cabinet (lockable)
- Bookshelf
- Small meeting table (some offices)
Features:
- Natural light via external windows
- Venetian blinds for privacy
- Door locks
- Individual climate control
- White noise system (conversation privacy)
Notable Occupants:
- Detective Senior Sergeant Karl Jenkins (Office 4, 2016-2018)
- Detective Sergeant Charlie Claiborne (Office 2)
- [Others as assigned]

Incident Room (Major Case Operations Centre)

Size: Approximately 80 square metres
Configuration: Large open room with flexible layout
Primary Features:
- Whiteboard walls (3 walls, floor-to-ceiling)
- Cork board panels for evidence pinning
- Large central table (seats 12-16)
- Digital display screens (2): Connected to case management systems
- Map display capability: Wall-mounted projector and screen
Typical Setup During Major Investigation:
- Timeline construction across whiteboards
- Suspect/victim/witness photographs and relationship mapping
- Evidence catalog displays
- Task allocation boards
- Press release preparation area
Equipment:
- Mobile whiteboards (additional)
- Pin boards on wheels
- Laptop docking stations (6)
- Conference phone system
- Video conferencing capability
Security: Swipe-card access, additional security during high-profile cases (keypad entry)
Usage: Reserved for major crimes, missing persons operations, task force investigations

Cold Case & Records Room

Size: Approximately 50 square metres
Function: Physical archive access and digital records workstation
Contents:
- Physical case files: Compactus shelving system (mobile shelving units)
- Categorisation: By year, case type, status (active/cold/closed)
- Digital archive terminals: 3 workstations with access to historical records database
- Microfilm/microfiche readers (2): Historical records pre-digitalisation
- Evidence catalog systems
Access: Restricted (detective rank or with authorisation)
Environmental Controls: Climate control (document preservation), fire suppression
Notable Cases Stored: Jenkins-Lahey investigation materials (2018-present, periodically reviewed by DS Alexander Stout)

Evidence Viewing Room

Size: 15 square metres
Purpose: Controlled environment for examining physical evidence or sensitive materials
Features:
- Large examination table with task lighting
- Evidence locker (temporary storage during examination)
- Photography equipment (for documenting evidence)
- Magnification equipment
- Computer terminal (for simultaneous digital record review)
- Sink and basic cleaning supplies
Security: Logged access, CCTV coverage, chain-of-custody protocols
Usage: Particularly for items too sensitive for general workspace or requiring specialist examination

Support Spaces (First Floor)

Meeting Rooms

Total Rooms: 3 small meeting rooms
Configuration: 4-6 person capacity each
Usage: Case conferences, witness consultations, team meetings
Booking System: Digital calendar reservation

Print & Records Office

Centralised printing for case documents
Secure document binding
Digital scanning services
Record request processing

Interview Rooms (Detective Suite)

2 additional interview rooms (more formal than ground floor)
Used for extended witness interviews
More comfortable furnishing (voluntary cooperation context)

Stairwell Access

Primary stairs connecting all floors
Secondary fire stairs (emergency use)

SECOND FLOOR - COMMAND, ADMINISTRATION & SUPPORT SERVICES

Total Floor Area: Approximately 1,200 square metres

Command & Leadership

Division Superintendent's Office

Size: Approximately 30 square metres
Location: Corner position (Liverpool Street / Argyle Street corner, maximum natural light)
Furnishing:
- Executive desk setup
- Conference table (seats 6)
- Leather chairs
- Credenza
- Display cabinets (awards, ceremonial items)
- Tasmania Police flag and Australian flag
Features:
- Private bathroom (ensuite)
- Coat closet
- Secure document safe
- Direct phone lines
- Video conferencing equipment
- External windows with views
Adjacent Spaces:
- Executive Assistant office
- Small waiting area

Senior Command Offices

Total Offices: 4
Occupants: Deputy commanders, senior administrative officers, strategic planning personnel
Configuration: Similar to superintendent's office but smaller (approximately 15-20 square metres each)

Briefing Room / Conference Suite

Size: Approximately 100 square metres
Configuration: Theatre-style seating (80 capacity) or boardroom setup (30 capacity)
Primary Functions:
- Morning briefings for shift changes
- Press conferences and media liaison
- Internal training sessions
- Strategic planning meetings
- External stakeholder meetings
Equipment:
- Projection system with large screen
- Video conferencing (high-quality)
- Audio system with microphones
- Podium with integrated controls
- Whiteboards and flip charts
- Retractable seating (flexible configuration)
Adjacent Spaces:
- Small preparation room
- Audio-visual equipment storage
- Catering preparation area

Administrative Services

Human Resources Office

Size: Approximately 40 square metres
Staffing: 3-4 HR personnel
Functions:
- Recruitment and onboarding
- Leave management
- Payroll liaison
- Occupational health and safety
- Staff welfare
- Performance management
- Training coordination
Configuration: Open-plan workspace with one private consultation room
Security: Confidential personnel files (locked cabinets), privacy for sensitive discussions

Internal Affairs Office

Size: Approximately 35 square metres
Configuration: 2 private offices plus small reception area
Function: Investigation of officer misconduct, complaint handling, integrity oversight
Security: Highest confidentiality protocols, limited access, secure file storage
Features:
- Private interview room
- Secure digital storage
- Independent phone lines
- Separate entrance (discretion for officers reporting)
Notable Investigations: Berriedale incident (Karl Jenkins, July 2018), Sarah Lahey surveillance authorisation (August 2018)

Finance & Procurement Office

Budget management
Equipment purchasing
Vendor coordination
Expense processing

IT Support Office

Technical support desk
Equipment repairs
Systems administration
Network monitoring

Staff Amenities

Break Room / Kitchenette

Size: Approximately 60 square metres
Configuration: Open space with seating for approximately 30
Facilities:
- Kitchen area: Sink, dishwasher, 2 refrigerators, microwave ovens (3), toaster, kettle
- Coffee machine (commercial grade, frequently malfunctioning)
- Water cooler
- Ice machine
- Vending machines (2): Snacks and cold drinks
Seating:
- Mixed seating: Tables with chairs, lounge-style seating along walls
- Usually crowded during peak lunch hours (1200-1400)
Amenities:
- Television (wall-mounted, usually showing news)
- Notice board (social events, roster changes, general announcements)
- First aid station
- Microwave food smell: Persistent, usually curry or leftover pizza
Atmosphere: Informal space, off-duty conversations, occasional tension when cases are stressful

Locker Room (Officer Amenities)

Personal lockers for secure storage
Change facilities
Rest area with recliners (for officers on long shifts)

THIRD FLOOR - SPECIALIST UNITS & TRAINING

Total Floor Area: Approximately 900 square metres

Note: The third floor houses rotating specialist units and is sometimes reconfigured based on operational needs. Current configuration as of 2018:

Specialist Investigation Units

Cybercrime & Digital Forensics Unit

Size: Approximately 80 square metres
Staffing: 6 specialist officers
Functions:
- Online crime investigation
- Digital evidence extraction
- Computer forensics
- Dark web monitoring
- Cryptocurrency tracking
- Social media investigation
Equipment:
- High-performance forensic workstations
- Data recovery systems
- Mobile device forensic tools
- Secure evidence storage servers
- Faraday bags and containment
Security: Enhanced cybersecurity measures, isolated network segments

Drug Investigation Unit

Size: Approximately 70 square metres
Staffing: 8-10 detectives (rotational)
Functions:
- Narcotics trafficking investigations
- Organised crime connections
- Surveillance coordination
- Informant management
- Joint operations with federal agencies
Features:
- Secure communication systems
- Intelligence database access
- Operational planning space

Missing Persons Unit

Size: Approximately 50 square metres
Staffing: 4 dedicated officers plus rotational support
Functions:
- Missing person investigations
- Family liaison
- Media appeals coordination
- Search and rescue coordination
- Long-term missing persons case management
Features:
- Dedicated phone line (public reporting)
- Case board (active missing persons)
- Database terminals
- Family consultation room

Training & Development

Training Rooms

Total Rooms: 2
Configuration:
- Room 1: 30-person capacity, classroom style
- Room 2: 20-person capacity, workshop/practical style
Usage:
- New recruit orientation
- Continuing professional development
- Scenario training
- Equipment training
- External provider training sessions
Equipment:
- Projection systems
- Whiteboards
- Training mannequins and props
- Audio-visual recording (training review)

Professional Standards Library

Police procedure manuals
Legal reference materials
Training videos and resources
Computer terminals for online learning

Support Spaces (Third Floor)

Conference Rooms

3 small conference rooms (6-8 person capacity)
Used by specialist units for case discussions

Storage

Equipment storage
Training materials
Seasonal equipment (e.g., winter gear)

BASEMENT LEVEL - LOGISTICS, FORENSICS & SECURE OPERATIONS

Total Floor Area: Approximately 1,300 square metres

Access: Staff entrance via internal stairs or lift, vehicle access via Argyle Street roller door

Environmental Characteristics:

Concrete floors throughout (polished finish in most areas)
Steel-reinforced doors for secure areas
Limited natural light (small windows at ground level on Argyle Street side)
Industrial-grade ventilation (necessary due to enclosed nature)
Fluorescent lighting (some areas have LED upgrades)
Temperature-controlled in specific zones
Drainage systems for vehicle bay and shower areas

Vehicle Operations

Vehicle Garage

Size: Approximately 500 square metres
Capacity: 32 parking bays
Vehicle Types:
- Marked patrol vehicles: 18 bays
- Unmarked detective vehicles: 10 bays
- Specialist vehicles (dog units, traffic operations): 4 bays
Configuration:
- Two-way traffic flow
- Clearly marked bay numbers
- Vehicle charging stations (2): For electric/hybrid vehicles
- Direct access to evidence transfer area
Features:
- Roller door entry/exit (Argyle Street)
- Security gate (internal, controls access to rest of basement)
- CCTV coverage (comprehensive)
- Basic maintenance area: Tyre inflation, fluid top-up, cleaning station
Security:
- Swipe-card access from garage to building interior
- Vehicle key management system
- Log of all vehicle movements

Vehicle Fleet Management Office

Small office adjacent to garage
Fleet coordinator workstation
Vehicle maintenance scheduling
Fuel and service records

Forensic Operations

Forensic Services Laboratory ("The Lair")

Size: Approximately 150 square metres
Configuration: Segmented into specialised zones
Primary Zones:
- Evidence Processing: Initial examination and cataloging
- Chemical Analysis: Fume hood, spectroscopy equipment, chemical storage
- Biological Evidence: Refrigeration, microscopy, sterile work area
- Trace Evidence: Microscopes, comparison tools, fiber analysis
- Photography Studio: Controlled lighting, evidence documentation, macro photography
- Ballistics Examination: Comparison microscope, reference collection
- Tool Mark Analysis: Comparison equipment, casting materials
Equipment:
- Forensic-grade microscopes (various types)
- Chemical analysis systems
- Fingerprint development chambers
- DNA sample processing equipment (basic; advanced sent to state lab)
- Digital imaging systems
- Evidence drying cabinets
- Sterile work benches
- Reference libraries (fingerprints, tool marks, etc.)
Staff:
- Forensic technicians (typically 2-3 on duty)
- Police forensic investigators
- External forensic scientists (as needed)
Security:
- Restricted access (forensic personnel only)
- Chain-of-custody protocols
- Evidence tracking systems
- Climate control (evidence preservation)
- Fire suppression (specialised for chemical storage)

Evidence Storage & Logistics

Secure Evidence Lockup (Major Case Evidence Storage)

Size: Approximately 100 square metres
Configuration: High-security room with caged sections
Access: Dual-authentication required, comprehensive logging
Storage Types:
- Weapons: Secured in steel cabinets
- Large items: Shelving and floor storage
- Drugs and controlled substances: Double-locked cabinet within lockup
- High-value property: Separate caged section
- Biological evidence: Refrigerated storage
- Digital evidence: Climate-controlled section
Features:
- 24/7 monitoring (CCTV plus alarm system)
- Environmental controls (temperature, humidity)
- Fire suppression
- Evidence tracking system (barcode/RFID)
- Regular audit procedures

General Evidence Storage

Size: Approximately 120 square metres
Configuration: Industrial shelving system with compactus units
Contents:
- Standard case evidence (less sensitive than secure lockup)
- Property from less serious crimes
- Found property awaiting claim
- Historical evidence (pending disposal authorisation)
Organisation: By case number, date, type
Access: Logged but less restrictive than secure lockup

Evidence Transport Staging Area

Airlock-style entry from vehicle garage
Temporary holding for evidence arriving or departing
Documentation station
Chain-of-custody transfer point

Operational Support

K9 Holding Facility

Size: Approximately 40 square metres
Purpose: Short-term housing for operational police dogs (when handlers on shift)
Configuration:
- 4 individual kennels (2m x 2m each)
- Stainless steel construction
- Epoxy-coated concrete floors (easy cleaning, drainage)
- Individual water supply per kennel
Features:
- Ventilation system (odour control)
- Exercise area (small, approximately 20 square metres)
- Equipment storage (leads, harnesses, toys, cleaning supplies)
- Grooming station (basic)
- Food preparation area
- Hose-down cleaning capability
Usage: Primarily when dogs deployed with handlers on long shifts, not permanent housing
Notable Occupants (Historical): Jargus-9B (when deployed with Karl Jenkins, 2017-2018)

Showers & Locker Facilities

Size: Approximately 80 square metres
Configuration:
- Men's showers: 6 shower stalls
- Women's showers: 4 shower stalls
- Gender-neutral facilities: 1 private shower/change room
- Locker banks: Approximately 100 lockers total
Usage:
- Officers after physical activities
- After contaminated crime scene work
- Shift changes
- Emergency decontamination
Amenities:
- Benches, hooks, mirrors
- Basic toiletries dispensers
- Towel service
- First aid station

Equipment Storage & Maintenance

Size: Approximately 100 square metres
Contents:
- Crime scene equipment (cameras, measuring tools, markers)
- Traffic control equipment (cones, signs, barriers)
- Public order equipment (shields, barriers, crowd control gear)
- Search and rescue equipment (ropes, climbing gear, stretchers)
- Seasonal equipment (winter clothing, rain gear)
- Spare radios, torches, batteries
- PPE supplies (masks, gloves, protective suits)
- Tools and maintenance equipment
Configuration: Industrial shelving, equipment cages, wall-mounted racks
Access: Equipment issue point with sign-out system

General Storage

Office supplies bulk storage
Cleaning supplies
Building maintenance materials
Archives (non-evidential)

Building Services

Mechanical room (HVAC equipment)
Electrical switchboards
Backup generator room
Water systems
Communications equipment room

Waste Management

General waste: Standard bins
Secure waste: Locked bins for confidential paper (scheduled shredding)
Recycling: Separated categories
Hazardous waste: Locked storage awaiting specialist removal

SECURITY SYSTEMS & PROTOCOLS

Physical Security

Access Control System

Technology: Swipe-card system with magnetic stripe cards
Access Levels:
- Level 1: Public areas (ground floor public zone)
- Level 2: General staff (standard office areas, break rooms)
- Level 3: Sworn officers (detective workspace, briefing rooms)
- Level 4: Senior command (command offices, sensitive files)
- Level 5: Restricted (armoury, secure evidence lockup, Internal Affairs)
Features:
- Time-based access restrictions
- Location-based access permissions
- Comprehensive logging of all access events
- Lost/stolen card immediate deactivation
- Biometric backup (fingerprint) for highest security areas

CCTV Surveillance

Coverage: Comprehensive internal and external coverage
Camera Count: Approximately 120 cameras throughout facility
Monitoring:
- 24/7 monitoring (Operations Control Room)
- Recording: 90-day retention (standard areas), 1-year retention (high-security areas)
- Multiple monitor stations (Operations, Security Office, Command)
Camera Types:
- Fixed position (most areas)
- PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) for critical areas
- Thermal imaging (perimeter at night)
- Number plate recognition (vehicle entry)

Intrusion Detection

Perimeter alarms on all external doors and accessible windows
Motion sensors in secure areas when unoccupied
Glass-break sensors on ground floor external windows
Panic buttons throughout facility (approximately 80 locations)

Physical Barriers

Reinforced concrete construction
Security glazing on ground floor
Steel-reinforced doors for secure areas
Bollards preventing vehicle-borne attacks
Fencing around staff parking areas

Communications Systems

Radio System

VHF/UHF radio network
Encryption capability for sensitive operations
Coverage extending across Southern Division
Backup channels for emergencies
Integration with other emergency services

Telephone System

Digital PABX system
Direct lines to command offices
Emergency services hotlines
Public reporting lines
Secure lines for sensitive communications

Computer Network

Isolated from public internet
VPN connections for authorised external access
Redundant servers
Regular backup protocols
Cybersecurity monitoring

Emergency Protocols

Fire Safety

Smoke detectors throughout facility
Manual call points at exits
Automatic suppression systems in high-risk areas (armoury, forensics, server rooms)
Emergency lighting
Evacuation plans posted
Regular fire drills

Backup Systems

Emergency generator (powers critical systems: cells, communications, security)
UPS (uninterruptible power supply) for computer systems
Battery backup for access control and alarms
Backup radio systems

Emergency Evacuation

Primary assembly point: Liverpool Street frontage (safe distance)
Secondary assembly point: Argyle Street (vehicle bay area if safe)
Evacuation coordinators (per shift)
Special procedures for detainees in custody
Communication with Operations Control mandatory during evacuation

Incident Lockdown Protocols

Automatic door locking capability
Panic button activation protocol
Armed response procedures
External assistance coordination
Public safety priority procedures

OPERATIONAL PROCEDURES & PROTOCOLS

Evidence Handling

Chain of Custody Requirements

Comprehensive logging at every transfer point
Barcode/RFID tracking system
Photographic documentation of evidence condition
Sealed containers with tamper-evident seals
Two-person verification for high-value evidence
Digital signature system for all transfers

Evidence Processing Flow

Scene collection (field officers)
Transport to station (logged transfer)
Evidence receiving (basement staging area)
Initial cataloging (evidence officer)
Forensic examination (if required)
Secure storage (appropriate lockup)
Court preparation (as needed)
Post-trial storage or disposal (per retention schedules)

Detainee Management

Custody Procedures

Booking process (fingerprints, photograph, property inventory)
Rights notification (recorded on video)
Medical screening
Regular welfare checks (minimum every 30 minutes)
Meal provision (3 meals per 24-hour period)
Legal representation access
Phone call rights
Separation of juveniles and adults
Gender-appropriate handling
Mental health crisis protocols
Medical emergency procedures
Exercise entitlements for extended detention

Shift Operations

Shift Structure

Day Shift: 0600-1400
Afternoon Shift: 1400-2200
Night Shift: 2200-0600
Overlap periods for briefings and handovers

Briefing Protocols

Pre-shift briefing (30 minutes before shift start)
Intelligence updates
Outstanding warrant notifications
Vehicle and area assignments
Equipment issue
Safety briefings

Visitor Management

Public Visitors

Sign-in at reception
Photo ID requirement
Visitor badge issue
Escort requirement for non-public areas
Sign-out on departure

Official Visitors (Other Agencies, Legal Representatives)

Pre-arranged access
Security clearance verification
Escorted access as needed
Confidential meeting room provision

BUILDING MAINTENANCE & SERVICES

Cleaning & Hygiene

Contract cleaning service (daily after hours)
Deep cleaning schedules (weekly for high-traffic areas)
Specialist cleaning for forensics and evidence areas
Waste removal (daily general waste, weekly secure waste)

Maintenance Schedule

HVAC servicing (quarterly)
Elevator inspections (monthly)
Fire system testing (quarterly)
Generator testing (monthly)
Security system testing (monthly)
Building fabric inspections (annual)

Utilities

Mains water supply with backup tanks
Dual electrical feeds (redundancy)
Natural gas (kitchen facilities)
Data communications (multiple service providers for redundancy)

HISTORICAL NOTES

Construction History

2001: Site acquisition and planning approval
2001-2003: Construction period
March 2003: Operational commencement
2016: Security upgrade (bollard installation, CCTV expansion)
2018: Access control system upgrade

Significant Events

2 August 2018: Last documented entry by Detective Karl Jenkins (Operations desk log, 14:37)
8 August 2018: Detective Sarah Lahey death during operation (Myrtle Forest)
2018-present: Ongoing Jenkins-Lahey investigation materials housed in Cold Case Room
2020: COVID-19 modifications (enhanced cleaning, spacing modifications, remote working capabilities)

Renovations & Upgrades

2015: First floor detective workspace reconfiguration
2016: Basement forensic lab expansion
2019: Briefing room audio-visual upgrade
2021: IT infrastructure modernisation

Tasmania Police Hobart Station - Architectural & Operational Specifications