List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 | Establish client needs and schedule analysis | 1.1 | Obtain evidential material/samples following accepted chain of custody procedures |
| 1.2 | Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies |
| 1.3 | Evaluate samples and select appropriate laboratory procedure from accepted standard forensic techniques and validated scientific methods |
| 1.4 | Identify the possible need to modify workplace techniques or methods, for example, to ensure recovery of sample materials |
| 1.5 | Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes according to workplace quality system and judicial requirements |
| 1.6 | Schedule analysis using workplace procedures |
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2 | Prepare samples and standards | 2.1 | Obtain a representative analytical portion of the sample |
| 2.2 | Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements |
| 2.3 | Prepare validation checks and/or calibration standards for analytical portions |
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3 | Perform analysis | 3.1 | Perform laboratory examination in accordance with validated technique or method on standards, validation checks and samples |
| 3.2 | Conduct sufficient testing to obtain reliable data |
| 3.3 | Perform tests according to workplace requirements for timeframe and cost |
| 3.4 | Troubleshoot technique or method problems which have led to atypical data or results |
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4 | Process and analyse data | 4.1 | Confirm data is the result of valid measurements |
| 4.2 | Perform any required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations |
| 4.3 | Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units |
| 4.4 | Draw conclusions from examination of results according to accepted forensic practices and documented requirements |
| 4.5 | Review laboratory methodology and test results |
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5 | Maintain a safe work environment | 5.1 | Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method |
| 5.2 | Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested |
| 5.3 | Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts |
| 5.4 | Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste |
| 5.5 | Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures |
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6 | Maintain laboratory records and report results | 6.1 | Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS) according to workplace quality system and judicial requirements |
| 6.2 | Maintain equipment logs in accordance with workplace procedures |
| 6.3 | Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation |
| 6.4 | Prepare reports for presentation of evidence and communicate results to appropriate personnel |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
safely performing complex laboratory testing of forensic samples to produce valid and reliable results on at least three (3) occasions
establishing client needs for routine and non-routine forensic samples
completing chain of custody forms according to judicial and workplace requirements
prioritising the evaluation of items of evidence to ensure sample integrity is maintained
selecting suitable techniques and methods and modifying them if required
sequencing and selecting forensic sample techniques and methods to maximise recovery of sample materials
performing complex laboratory examinations in accordance with validated technique or method on standards, validation checks and samples
applying theoretical knowledge and deductive processes to draw conclusions from test results
recognising atypical test data and results
communicating any problems to a supervisor or industry professional using current and appropriate terminology
troubleshooting common analytical procedure and equipment problems
ensuring all testing and reporting meets judicial requirements
maintaining security, integrity and traceability of forensic samples, evidence, sub-samples, test data, results and documentation
reporting results of forensic examinations and tests according to judicial and workplace protocols
following workplace safety procedures.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
terminology and principles of locating, recording, collecting, storing, transporting, testing and reporting forensic samples and evidence
legal, regulatory, policy, procedural and quality system requirements for the collection, preservation, security, continuity and disposal of forensic samples and evidence (exhibits)
principles and concepts related to testing techniques and methods
potential limitations of own specialist knowledge and when to seek advice from other services
peer services available to assist laboratory examination, testing and interpretation of forensic samples
review processes for examination of test findings
relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.
Judgment of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.
This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).
This unit of competency may be assessed with:
MSL977003 Contribute to the validation of test methods
MSL975024 Locate, record and collect forensic samples
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of test data, results and reports obtained by the candidate over a period of time to check accuracy, consistency and timeliness of results
review of workplace documentation and reports completed by the candidate
feedback from clients, peers, supervisors and/or industry professionals about the candidate’s ability to conduct complex laboratory testing of forensic samples to produce valid and reliable results
observation of candidate testing a range of forensic samples and evidence
oral or written questioning of relevant chemical principles and concepts, analytical techniques, forensic protocols and workplace procedures.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
a standard laboratory with specialised analytical instruments, laboratory reagents and equipment, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test methods.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR
relevant workplace experience.
Currency can be demonstrated through:
performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR
having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.