Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to prepare samples and perform tests and measurements using standard methods with access to readily available advice from supervisors.
This unit of competency applies to laboratory/field assistants working in all industry sectors. In general, they do not calibrate equipment and make only limited adjustments to the controls. They do not interpret or analyse results or troubleshoot equipment problems.
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 | Interpret test requirements | 1.1 | Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment involved |
1.2 | Identify hazards and workplace controls associated with the sample, preparation methods, reagents and/or equipment | ||
2 | Prepare sample | 2.1 | Record sample description, compare with specification, record and report discrepancies |
2.2 | Prepare sample in accordance with appropriate standard methods | ||
3 | Check equipment before use | 3.1 | Set up test equipment in accordance with test method |
3.2 | Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures and manufacturer instructions | ||
3.3 | Identify faulty or unsafe equipment and report to appropriate personnel | ||
3.4 | Check calibration status of equipment and report any out-of-calibration items to appropriate personnel | ||
4 | Perform tests on samples | 4.1 | Identify, prepare and weigh or measure sample and standards to be tested |
4.2 | Conduct tests in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
4.3 | Record data in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
4.4 | Perform calculations on data as required | ||
4.5 | Identify and report out of specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel | ||
4.6 | Shut down equipment in accordance with operating procedures | ||
5 | Maintain a safe work environment | 5.1 | Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel |
5.2 | Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts | ||
5.3 | Ensure safe disposal of laboratory and hazardous wastes | ||
5.4 | Clean, care for and store equipment and reagents as required | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Numeracy skills to calculate simple quantities using appropriate equations, units, uncertainties and precision
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Testing