List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1 | Verify the accuracy of data and technical records | 1.1 | Access relevant job instructions, data and technical records in laboratory information management system (LIMS) |
| 1.2 | Confirm that technical records provide sufficient information to ensure traceability for the tests involved |
| 1.3 | Compare data with expected values and identify any outliers |
| 1.4 | Inspect data records to check the integrity of data entry, alterations, transfers and calculations |
| 1.5 | Correct and initial any incorrect data records |
| 1.6 | Sign off data records as correct |
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2 | Determine if results are acceptable and within expectation | 2.1 | Compare results with expected values and identify any significant differences |
| 2.2 | Check the reliability of results by examining data, statistical analysis of data and results from repeat tests or duplicate samples |
| 2.3 | Assess the significance of any documented observations of atypical test conditions or environment and/or sample appearance |
| 2.4 | Check that all calculations are free from error |
| 2.5 | Check that estimates of uncertainty are reasonable and consistent with the test method, client and/or product specification requirements |
| 2.6 | Authorise the issue of results that meet the organisation's quality standards and are consistent with expectations |
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3 | Investigate unexpected or unacceptable results | 3.1 | Examine records of pre-use checks and calibration performance to ensure that the equipment and/or instruments used meet test specifications and workplace requirements |
| 3.2 | Establish whether human and/or environmental factors could have affected the reliability of results |
| 3.3 | Check for obvious sources of interferences that may have occurred during measurements |
| 3.4 | Retrieve stored samples (if available) and assess whether they are atypical or contaminated |
| 3.5 | Perform control tests using the same, or new, samples to check unexpected results |
| 3.6 | Authorise the issue of unexpected results that meet the organisation's quality standards |
| 3.7 | Identify possible root causes of unacceptable results and appropriate preventative/corrective actions |
| 3.8 | Report investigation outcomes and recommendations for improvements in accordance with workplace procedures |
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4 | Liaise with clients about results | 4.1 | Establish whether sampling procedures used by the client could contribute to unexpected/unacceptable results |
| 4.2 | Arrange for new samples and/or re-testing as necessary |
| 4.3 | Explain investigation outcomes and confidence level for unexpected test results |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
verifying the accuracy and completeness of at least one (1) set of data, results and technical records for specified tests
issuing at least one (1) set of specified test results in accordance with authorisation and workplace procedures
reviewing at least one (1) set of records of sampling, sample preparation, testing and/or calibration activities to identify potential causes of unacceptable data/results
using statistical tests to estimate uncertainties and determine data acceptability
recognising unexpected or unacceptable data and results and then investigating the occurrence in a logical and efficient manner using effective problem-solving strategies
rectifying results that are not consistent with expected values
recommending appropriate preventative/corrective actions to control potential/actual non-conforming work
explaining technical details of sampling, test methods and results to clients
maintaining a professional approach and positive company/organisation image, including maintaining independence and an ability to resist improper influences.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
workplace procedures for authorising the issue of specified test results
relevant reporting requirements, such as the ISO Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement, National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) and/or test methods
the confidence level required according to the National Measurement Act 1960 (e.g. 95% for most applications, but it may be higher)
scientific and technical knowledge of the samples, procedures, equipment, materials and instrumentation used to generate the specified test results and data
at least three (3) statistical tests used to estimate uncertainties and determine data acceptability
expected values for data and results and the uncertainty components for specified test methods
common sources of interference, human and environmental factors, sample preparation problems and relevant preventative/corrective actions associated with specified test results
confidentiality requirements relevant to job role
work health and safety (WHS) and environmental management requirements relevant to job role.
Judgement of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.
This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.
Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.
Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.
Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).
This unit of competency may be assessed with:
MSL935001 Monitor the quality of test results and data
relevant MSL974000 and MSL975000 series units of competency that cover the ability to perform the tests involved, relevant data analysis and quality assurance procedures.
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of records and test results verified and issued by the candidate
feedback from supervisors and clients regarding the candidate's ability to issue authorised test results
review of recommendations and reports prepared by the candidate
questions to assess understanding of procedures governing the authorised issue of test results, acceptability of data/results, sources of uncertainty and preventative/corrective actions.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
sampling and test methods, description of test set-up, data sets, results and technical records
calculator
spreadsheets and databases
computer, relevant software or laboratory information system
workplace quality procedures.
Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.
The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.
Technical competence can be demonstrated through:
relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR
relevant workplace experience.
Currency can be demonstrated through:
performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR
having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.