Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to check the serviceability and calibration of laboratory/field instruments and equipment and perform routine maintenance, such as cleaning and replacement of consumables and minor components. Personnel are also required to perform basic troubleshooting and repairs consistent with warranty and service agreements.
This unit of competency applies to technical assistants, instrument operators and technical officers working in all industry sectors.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. | ||
1 | Perform serviceability checks | 1.1 | Perform pre-use and after-use checks in accordance with appropriate workplace and manufacturer procedures |
1.2 | Identify faulty or unsafe components and equipment | ||
1.3 | Identify and analyse service faults and report for appropriate for maintenance and/or repair | ||
1.4 | Complete instrument/equipment logbooks to workplace requirements | ||
2 | Conduct routine maintenance safely | 2.1 | Identify maintenance procedures, records and safety requirements |
2.2 | Plan and adjust maintenance schedules in accordance with operational requirements | ||
2.3 | Identify and replace or repair damaged, worn and/or spent components or items | ||
2.4 | Clean instruments and equipment using recommended cleaning agents and techniques | ||
2.5 | Store instruments and equipment in accordance with workplace and/or manufacturer requirements | ||
2.6 | Update maintenance records in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
2.7 | Arrange for reordering of consumable stocks and equipment components as necessary | ||
3 | Perform calibration/qualification checks | 3.1 | Operate instruments and equipment in accordance with workplace and/or manufacturer procedures |
3.2 | Check calibration/qualification using specified standards and/or procedures | ||
3.3 | Record all calibration/qualification data accurately and legibly | ||
3.4 | Document calibration status and report out-of-calibration equipment/instruments | ||
3.5 | Quarantine out-of-calibration items | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Reading skills to effectively interpret standard procedures and manufacturer requirements
Writing skills to accurately record data and complete maintenance records
Oral communication skills to interact effectively with suppliers and service agents.
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Quality