Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to carry out an internal audit in a seed testing laboratory. It applies to senior seed analysts who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and they analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
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. Prepare for internal audit | 1.1 Review previous internal audits 1.2 Source and review relevant enterprise documents 1.3 Prepare audit plan to suit staff availability and laboratory operations 1.4 Prepare appropriate checklists and audit related documentation 1.5 Agree on specific methods and techniques |
2. Conduct audit | 2.1 Ensure seed testing techniques are conducted by analysts and observed and reported on by auditor 2.2 Use questioning strategies to obtain further information on testing techniques and approaches from analysts 2.3 Report deviations to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) observed during observations of testing 2.4 Inspect seed storage, chemical store and sampling areas 2.5 Scrutinise work charts, schedules, reports and plans 2.6 Ensure the availability and currency of laboratory documents 2.7 Inspect archived documents to ensure they are complete and meet the statutory holding period |
3. Report findings | 3.1 Hold staff meeting to discuss outcomes of audit 3.2 Complete continuous improvement forms by auditor with suggested corrective actions 3.3 Prepare and provide an audit report to management for review 3.4 Present continuous improvement forms at future staff meetings until all corrective action is completed 3.5 File data collected during audit in laboratory information management system 3.6 Maintain confidentiality and security of enterprise information and laboratory data |
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:
prepare an audit plan and strategy for a seed testing laboratory audit
gather data and information by a variety of methods
undertake an internal audit in a seed testing laboratory
prepare an audit report for management review
develop a continuous improvement report with suggested corrective actions
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
auditing methods and techniques
enterprise standard operating procedures (SOPs)
relevant legislation affecting business operation
seed testing techniques, equipment and methodologies
the role of the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the ISTA Rules for Seed Testing
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
Seed testing (SDT)