Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to assist in the maintenance of reference materials that can be used in tests and the identification of new specimens as part of quality control of laboratory procedures. The unit of competency does not cover the scientific identification of species or specimens.
This unit applies to technical officers and laboratory technicians 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 | Acquire reference materials | 1.1 | Confirm that required transit conditions were maintained |
1.2 | Apply quarantine or isolation arrangements as necessary | ||
1.3 | Record data of accessioned reference material in the collection database | ||
1.4 | Label material to ensure that its identity is maintained during storage and issue | ||
2 | Maintain reference materials | 2.1 | Monitor storage conditions to ensure that they comply with suppliers' warranty specifications |
2.2 | Monitor storage conditions to ensure materials remain true to specification | ||
2.3 | Test material during storage and before release to report on reference characteristics and specificity | ||
2.4 | Report findings that suggest reference specimens may be deteriorating | ||
3 | Dispense reference materials to clients | 3.1 | Verify requests with supervisor before requests for reference materials are processed |
3.2 | Supply reference material without contamination of stock material | ||
3.3 | Keep records of materials issued in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
4 | Maintain a safe work environment | 4.1 | Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel |
4.2 | Follow safety protocols when handling and processing reference materials | ||
4.3 | Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts | ||
4.4 | Ensure the safe collection of redundant/outdated stocks for subsequent disposal | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Oral communication skills to interact appropriately and effectively with customers.
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Quality