Elements and Performance Criteria
- Interpret and schedule test requirements
- Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment/instruments involved
- Identify hazards and enterprise control measures associated with the sample, preparation/test methods, reagents and/or equipment
- Plan work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple samples (if appropriate)
- Receive and prepare samples
- Check equipment before use
- Set up equipment/instruments in accordance with test method requirements
- Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with relevant enterprise and operating procedures
- Identify faulty or unsafe components and equipment and report to appropriate personnel
- Check equipment calibration using specified standards and procedures (if applicable)
- Quarantine out-of-calibration equipment/instruments
- Ensure reagents required for the test are available and meet quality requirements
- Test samples to determine chemical species or properties
- Process and interpret data
- Record test data noting atypical observations
- Construct calibration graphs (if appropriate) and compute results for all samples from these graphs
- Ensure calculated values are consistent with expectations
- Record and report results in accordance with enterprise procedures
- Interpret trends in data and/or results and report 'out-of-specification' or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
- Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to atypical data or results
- Maintain a safe work environment
- Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
- Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts
- Ensure the safe collection of laboratory and hazardous waste for subsequent disposal
- Care for and store equipment and reagents as required
- Maintain laboratory records