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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Perform analysis
   • Perform laboratory examination in accordance with validated technique or method on standards, validation checks and samples
   • Conduct sufficient testing to obtain reliable data
   • Perform tests according to workplace requirements for timeframe and cost
   • Troubleshoot technique or method problems which have led to atypical data or results
2. Establish client needs and schedule analysis
   • Obtain evidential material/samples following accepted chain of custody procedures
3. Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies
4. Evaluate samples and select appropriate laboratory procedure from accepted standard forensic techniques and validated scientific methods
5. Identify the possible need to modify workplace techniques or methods, for example, to ensure recovery of sample materials
6. Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes according to workplace quality system and judicial requirements
7. Schedule analysis using workplace procedures
8. Prepare samples and standards
   • Obtain a representative analytical portion of the sample
9. Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements
10. Prepare validation checks and/or calibration standards for analytical portions
    • Perform laboratory examination in accordance with validated technique or method on standards, validation checks and samples
11. Conduct sufficient testing to obtain reliable data
12. Perform tests according to workplace requirements for timeframe and cost
13. Troubleshoot technique or method problems which have led to atypical data or results
14. Process and analyse data
    • Confirm data is the result of valid measurements
15. Perform any required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations
16. Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units
17. Draw conclusions from examination of results according to accepted forensic practices and documented requirements
18. Review laboratory methodology and test results
19. Maintain a safe work environment
    • Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method
20. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested
21. Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts
22. Safely dispose of laboratory waste
23. Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures
24. Maintain laboratory records and report results
    • Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS) according to workplace quality system and judicial requirements
25. Maintain equipment logs in accordance with workplace procedures
26. Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation
27. Prepare reports for presentation of evidence and communicate results to appropriate personnel