SOG~Story.

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Tasmania Police's Special Operations Group has 20 members -- only two thirds of the national recommendation of 30.

The SOG is responsible for the initial response, containment and resolution of high-risk situations including terrorist incidents.

Former police commander and now independent MLC Ivan Dean said the limited staff numbers put lives of police officers and the public at risk.

Inspector Glen Ball, who is in charge of the SOG, said the below-standard numbers did not affect operations.

Insp Ball said a crew of 30 would be ideal, but the physical and mental demands of the job made attracting people difficult.

"We should be striving to achieve that number and while I've been in charge for three years it's been a focus," he said.

"There are certain skill sets you need to fulfil to be a tactical operator in the SOG; the pool is limited to very fit persons."

Insp Ball said he had focused on recruiting since taking charge of the specialist group.

"We've looked at our processes and training regime and a lot of changes have been made to it over the years," Insp Ball said.

"Attracting people of this level is difficult, but it's a nationwide problem in the military and other police groups interstate.

"But at the same time we're not about to compromise the standards that are set nationally to bolster numbers."

The tactical operators take part in week-long training sessions across the state nine times a year. They also train with interstate counterparts.

Mr Dean said more needed to be done to address the shortage.

"It is critical that we are at the recommended strength, failing that the consequences are dire, we're risking lives," he said.

Mr Dean said it was also time Tasmania caught up with the nation and had a full-time SOG.

"It is clear interstate organisations place a higher value on their SOG and we're lagging.

"How can our group, despite the fact they are highly trained, ever have the same performance as interstate counterparts who are full time?'

Liberal justice spokeswoman Vanessa Goodwin said the Government must ensure full capacity.