Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect and preserve biological samples as part of a monitoring program.
This unit applies to individuals who most likely work under limited supervision from others with checking only related to overall progress.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Plan for collection | 1.1 Confirm the purpose of sampling 1.2 Confirm sampling schedule with manager 1.3 Confirm sampling site location and obtain approval for site access 1.4 Identify samples to be collected and preserved 1.5 Organise equipment required for biological sampling and preserving 1.6 Assess range of likely operating conditions, hazards and sensitive environments for impact on sampling and testing 1.7 Identify work health and safety policies and procedures for sampling tasks, including required personal protective equipment |
2. Prepare equipment and resources | 2.1 Obtain equipment required for sampling and preserving 2.2 Check equipment for availability and serviceability 2.3 Clean and sanitise equipment where necessary to maintain integrity of samples and biosecurity of area 2.4 Collect data or record sheets necessary for task 2.5 Move equipment, data sheets and personnel to sampling sites without injury or damage and prepare for use |
3. Carry out biological sampling and preserving procedures | 3.1 Collect samples in accordance with sampling plan 3.2 Apply environmental sustainability and biosecurity practices to collection processes 3.3 Preserve and record samples in accordance with sampling standards and guidelines 3.4 Prepare, package and send samples for external analysis in accordance with sampling schedule and laboratory standards 3.5 Make specific and general observations on relevant ambient and antecedent environmental conditions 3.6 Operate equipment and undertake work in accordance with work health and safety requirements 3.7 Report and deliver collection outcomes, including presentation of samples, according to enterprise guidelines |
4. Complete collection of biological sampling activities | 4.1 Clean, sanitise, repair and store equipment and clothing 4.2 Repair damaged or malfunctioning equipment 4.3 Record site sampling results and observations on data sheets 4.4 Report changes in field conditions and equipment to supervisor |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
collect and preserve biological samples as part of a monitoring program according to enterprise procedures
establish the sampling purpose and requirements
plan the collection
prepare equipment and facilities to take biological samples
carry out biological sampling as part of a monitoring program and according to enterprise procedures
preserve and record samples as part of a monitoring program and forward for testing if required according to enterprise procedures
record sampling data and observations according to enterprise procedures
report outcomes of collection according to enterprise procedures and monitoring program
apply work health and safety practices in the context of own work
apply biosecurity measures in the context of own work
apply appropriate sustainability practices in the context of own work
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
types of biological samples that may be included in the plan, including water, animal, plant samples
industry biological sampling and preserving guidelines and protocols
field procedures for biological sampling and preservation
collecting equipment and methods
preservation equipment and processes
fauna and flora recognition relevant to sampling activities
own role in complying with relevant environmental legislation
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Natural Area Restoration (NAR)