Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

MSL975018 Mapping and Delivery Guide
Perform complex tests to measure chemical properties of materials

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency MSL975018 - Perform complex tests to measure chemical properties of materials
Description
Employability Skills
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit of competency covers the ability to isolate analytes from complex matrices and perform multi-staged and multi-component analyses on them. The unit requires personnel to apply detailed knowledge of analytical chemistry to plan the analysis, prepare and measure samples, analyse and report results and make approved adjustments to procedures as required. Personnel are required to recognise atypical test data and results and troubleshoot common analytical procedure and equipment problems.This unit of competency is applicable to technical working in all industry sectors. All operations must comply with relevant standards, appropriate procedures and workplace requirements. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technician will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that clearly describe the scope of permitted practice, including varying workplace/test procedures and communicating results to people outside the laboratory.While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, laboratory operations are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.

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:

MSL925001 Analyse data and report results

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of test data/results obtained by the candidate over time to ensure accuracy and consistency of results

inspection of test records and workplace documentation completed by the candidate

observation of candidate conducting a range of complex tests to measure chemical properties of materials

feedback from clients, peers and supervisors about the candidate’s ability to provide valid and reliable results within expected timeframes

oral or written questioning of relevant chemical principles, concepts, sample preparation, isolation of analytes, analytical techniques 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.
Prerequisites/co-requisites
Competency Field Testing
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Develop an analysis plan with supervisor
  • Liaise with client or sample provider to determine test requirements and sample characteristics
  • Record sample description, compare with specification, record and report discrepancies
  • Confirm suitable sample preparation methods, quantification and analytical techniques with supervisor
  • Schedule analysis using workplace procedures
       
Element: Reduce the complexity of the sample
  • Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample
  • Prepare validation checks for analytical portions
  • Use workplace procedures to simplify the sample matrix
  • Conduct tests to ensure that sample preparation is complete
       
Element: Apply quantification method
  • Add modifiers to remove/minimise interferences
  • Conduct preliminary analysis to estimate analyte concentration
  • Match the concentration of analyte in the sample with the working range of the instrument
  • Prepare calibration standards to suit quantification method
       
Element: Perform analysis
  • Set up and optimise instruments to suit sample/test requirements
  • Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples
  • Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data
  • Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required
       
Element: Process and analyse data
  • Confirm data is the result of valid measurements
  • Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with estimations and expectations
  • Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision units and uncertainty
  • Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
  • Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results
       
Element: Maintain a safe work environment
  • Identify risks/hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and test methods
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures as specified for test method and materials to be tested
  • Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impact
  • Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste
  • Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures
       
Element: Maintain laboratory records
  • Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS)
  • Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation
  • Maintain equipment and logs in accordance with workplace procedures
       


Evidence Required

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

Develop an analysis plan with supervisor

1.1

Liaise with client or sample provider to determine test requirements and sample characteristics

1.2

Record sample description, compare with specification, record and report discrepancies

1.3

Confirm suitable sample preparation methods, quantification and analytical techniques with supervisor

1.4

Schedule analysis using workplace procedures

2

Reduce the complexity of the sample

2.1

Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample

2.2

Prepare validation checks for analytical portions

2.3

Use workplace procedures to simplify the sample matrix

2.4

Conduct tests to ensure that sample preparation is complete

3

Apply quantification method

3.1

Add modifiers to remove/minimise interferences

3.2

Conduct preliminary analysis to estimate analyte concentration

3.3

Match the concentration of analyte in the sample with the working range of the instrument

3.4

Prepare calibration standards to suit quantification method

4

Perform analysis

4.1

Set up and optimise instruments to suit sample/test requirements

4.2

Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples

4.3

Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data

4.4

Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required

5

Process and analyse data

5.1

Confirm data is the result of valid measurements

5.2

Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with estimations and expectations

5.3

Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision units and uncertainty

5.4

Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Identify risks/hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and test methods

6.2

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures as specified for test method and materials to be tested

6.3

Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impact

6.4

Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste

6.5

Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures

7

Maintain laboratory records

7.1

Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS)

7.2

Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

7.3

Maintain equipment and logs in accordance with workplace procedures

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

isolating analytes from complex matrices and performing multi-staged and/or multi-component analysis on them on at least three (3) different occasions

accurately interpreting client requests, test methods and procedures

applying detailed knowledge of analytical chemistry to develop an analysis plan for approval by a supervisor

maintaining close attention to measurement procedures, accuracy and precision during lengthy and complex tests

preparing samples and standards

safely setting up, starting up and shutting down equipment using workplace procedures

checking the calibration and qualification status of equipment

optimising procedures and equipment to suit sample and test requirements

making approved adjustments to procedures

preparing and using calibration charts and standards

analysing data, recognising atypical or anomalous results and troubleshooting common analytical procedure and equipment problems

calculating analyte concentrations with appropriate accuracy, precision, units and uncertainty

recording data and reporting results using workplace procedures

maintaining security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

following workplace safety procedures.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

principles and concepts underpinning the analysis, including:

nature of specific sample matrices

effects of interferents with analyte behaviour, such as ionisation, complexation, precipitation, masking and association

quantification methods, such as internal standards, standard additions, Gran's Plot and recovery checks

chemical and physical treatments to minimise interferences

fragile and labile nature of biological sample materials

sample preparation procedures used for analyses

special needs for sample treatment or pre-treatment

function of key components of equipment and effects of modifying instrumental variables on outputs and results

basic procedure and equipment troubleshooting techniques

common analytical procedure and equipment problems, including:

matrix interference

spectral interference

problems associated with the physical state of the analyte, such as blockages and viscosity changing flow rates to instruments

basic equipment maintenance procedures

calculation steps to give results in appropriate units, precision and uncertainty

workplace and legal traceability requirements

relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Develop an analysis plan with supervisor

1.1

Liaise with client or sample provider to determine test requirements and sample characteristics

1.2

Record sample description, compare with specification, record and report discrepancies

1.3

Confirm suitable sample preparation methods, quantification and analytical techniques with supervisor

1.4

Schedule analysis using workplace procedures

2

Reduce the complexity of the sample

2.1

Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample

2.2

Prepare validation checks for analytical portions

2.3

Use workplace procedures to simplify the sample matrix

2.4

Conduct tests to ensure that sample preparation is complete

3

Apply quantification method

3.1

Add modifiers to remove/minimise interferences

3.2

Conduct preliminary analysis to estimate analyte concentration

3.3

Match the concentration of analyte in the sample with the working range of the instrument

3.4

Prepare calibration standards to suit quantification method

4

Perform analysis

4.1

Set up and optimise instruments to suit sample/test requirements

4.2

Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples

4.3

Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data

4.4

Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required

5

Process and analyse data

5.1

Confirm data is the result of valid measurements

5.2

Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with estimations and expectations

5.3

Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision units and uncertainty

5.4

Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Identify risks/hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and test methods

6.2

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures as specified for test method and materials to be tested

6.3

Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impact

6.4

Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste

6.5

Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures

7

Maintain laboratory records

7.1

Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS)

7.2

Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

7.3

Maintain equipment and logs in accordance with workplace procedures

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements include the latest version of one or more of:

Australian and international standards covering the requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, laboratory design and construction, physical containment levels and facility types, laboratory safety, and quality and environmental management

national work health and safety (WHS) standards and codes of practice, and national measurement regulations and guidelines

Australian and international standards and guidelines covering chemical analysis, specialised spectrometric and chromatographic analysis, accuracy of measurement methods and results, expression of uncertainty and quantifying uncertainty

specific codes, guidelines, procedures and methods, such as the Australian code of good manufacturing practice for medicinal products (GMP), principles of good laboratory practice (GLP), Association of Analytical Communities International (AOAC International) Official Methods of Analysis, and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

workplace documents, such as SOPs; quality and equipment manuals; calibration and maintenance schedules; material safety data sheets (MSDS) and safety procedures; material, production and product specifications; production and laboratory schedules; data quality procedures; workplace recording and reporting procedures; waste minimisation and safe disposal procedures; cleaning, hygiene and personal hygiene requirements; and stock records and inventory

sampling procedures (labelling, preparation, storage, transport and disposal)

test procedures (validated and authorised)

Test requirements

Test requirements include:

specification of concentration and limits of analytes

time and cost limitations

Sample preparation

Sample preparation includes identification of any hazards associated with the samples and/or analytical chemicals and use of techniques, such as:

grinding, mulling, preparation of disks, digestion, dissolving, ashing, refluxing, extraction, filtration, evaporation, flocculation, precipitation, washing, drying and centrifugation

solid-phase micro-extraction

determination of, and if appropriate, removal of any contaminants or impurities

ultra-trace procedures requiring high purity solvents, clean rooms, ultra clean glassware and specialised glassware

Quantification techniques

Quantification techniques include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

matrix matched standards

standard additions

international standards

Analytical techniques

Analytical techniques include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

spectrometric techniques, such as inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS)

chromatographic techniques, such as gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) and ion chromatography (IC)

electrometric techniques, such as ion selective electrodes, voltammetry (polarography) and anodic stripping voltammetry

electrophoretic techniques, such as capillary electrophoresis

Typical analytes and samples requiring complex tests

Typical analytes and samples requiring complex tests include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

contaminants in food, such as heavy metals and afflotoxins

trace level (microgram and nanogram/litre) analytes

forensic testing, and drug testing in body tissues and fluids

multiple analytes, such as organochlorins and polyaromatic hydrocarbons

environmental contaminants in water, soil and air (such as pesticides)

sludge, wastewater and sewage

samples with matrix interferences

Validation checks

Validation checks include:

recovery checks

use of standard/certified samples

Tests for completeness of sample preparation

Tests for completeness of sample preparation include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

visual inspection for colour and solids

odour

pH and conductivity

chemical tests for interferents, such as precipitation and colour forming

basic screening instrumental tests, such as infrared, ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) and gas chromatography

Modifiers

Modifiers include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

ionisation suppressants, such as Caesium for calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), and potassium (K) in atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS)

ionic strength and pH buffers, such as total ionic strength adjustment buffer (TISAB) for fluoride in ion-selective electrode (ISE)

releasing agents, such as Lanthanum and Strontium for Ca in AAS

volatility suppressants, such as phosphate for lead (Pb) in electrothermal AAS

Safety procedures

Safety procedures include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

ensuring access to service shut-off points

recognising and observing hazard warnings and safety signs

labelling of samples, reagents, aliquoted samples and hazardous materials

handling and storage of hazardous materials and equipment in accordance with labelling, MSDS and manufacturer instructions

identifying and reporting operating problems or equipment malfunctions

use of fumehoods and direct extraction of vapours and gases

use of appropriate equipment, such as biohazard containers, laminar flow cabinets, Class I, II and III biohazard cabinets

cleaning and decontaminating equipment and work areas regularly using workplace procedures

using PPE, such as gloves, safety glasses, coveralls and gowns

minimising exposure to radiation ionising, such as lasers, electromagnetic and UV radiation

reporting abnormal emissions, discharges and airborne contaminants, such as noise, light, solids, liquids, water/wastewater, gases, smoke, vapour, fumes, odour and particulates, to appropriate personnel

WHS and environmental management requirements

WHS and environmental management requirements include:

· complying with WHS and environmental management requirements at all times, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation. These requirements must not be compromised at any time

· applying standard precautions relating to the potentially hazardous nature of samples

accessing and applying current industry understanding of infection control issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and State and Territory Departments of Health, where relevant

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Liaise with client or sample provider to determine test requirements and sample characteristics 
Record sample description, compare with specification, record and report discrepancies 
Confirm suitable sample preparation methods, quantification and analytical techniques with supervisor 
Schedule analysis using workplace procedures 
Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample 
Prepare validation checks for analytical portions 
Use workplace procedures to simplify the sample matrix 
Conduct tests to ensure that sample preparation is complete 
Add modifiers to remove/minimise interferences 
Conduct preliminary analysis to estimate analyte concentration 
Match the concentration of analyte in the sample with the working range of the instrument 
Prepare calibration standards to suit quantification method 
Set up and optimise instruments to suit sample/test requirements 
Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples 
Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data 
Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required 
Confirm data is the result of valid measurements 
Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with estimations and expectations 
Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision units and uncertainty 
Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel 
Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results 
Identify risks/hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and test methods 
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures as specified for test method and materials to be tested 
Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impact 
Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste 
Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures 
Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS) 
Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation 
Maintain equipment and logs in accordance with workplace procedures 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MSL975018 - Perform complex tests to measure chemical properties of materials
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

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Result: Competent Not yet competent

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Assessor name:

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Assessment Record Sheet

MSL975018 - Perform complex tests to measure chemical properties of materials

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

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