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 | Interpret and schedule work requirements | 1.1 | Review work request to identify samples, required procedures and materials/equipment/instruments involved |
| 1.2 | Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with the sample, preparation methods, reagents and/or equipment |
| 1.3 | Plan parallel work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple sets of samples |
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2 | Receive and prepare biological samples | 2.1 | Log samples using standard operating procedures (SOPs) |
| 2.2 | Record sample description, compare with specification and note and report discrepancies |
| 2.3 | Prepare samples in accordance with testing requirements |
| 2.4 | Ensure traceability of sample from receipt to reporting of results |
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3 | Perform techniques that assist in the classification of a cell or species | 3.1 | Select suitable techniques in accordance with workplace requirements and methods |
| 3.2 | Set up and use equipment and reagents in accordance with the method |
| 3.3 | Perform techniques in accordance with the method |
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4 | Perform techniques that analyse biological activity | 4.1 | Select suitable techniques in accordance with workplace requirements and methods |
| 4.2 | Set up and use equipment and reagents in accordance with the method |
| 4.3 | Perform techniques in accordance with the method |
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5 | Process and interpret data | 5.1 | Record test data noting atypical observations |
| 5.2 | Construct calibration graphs and compute results for all samples from these graphs |
| 5.3 | Ensure calculated values are consistent with expectations |
| 5.4 | Record and report results in accordance with workplace procedures |
| 5.5 | Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures |
| 5.6 | Interpret trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel |
| 5.7 | Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to atypical data or results |
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6 | Maintain a safe work environment | 6.1 | Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel |
| 6.2 | Minimise the generation of waste |
| 6.3 | Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous wastes |
| 6.4 | Clean, care for and store equipment and reagents as required |
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7 | Maintain laboratory records | 7.1 | Record approved data into workplace system |
| 7.2 | Maintain confidentiality and security of workplace information and laboratory data |
| 7.3 | Maintain equipment and calibration logs in accordance with workplace procedures |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
safely performing at least five (5) routine biological techniques that involve several steps to classify cell types, species and biologically active compounds by analysing their biological and chemical characteristics
accurately interpreting work requirements and following test procedures and safe work practices
safely preparing samples and using separation techniques
conducting pre-use and calibration checks on equipment
safely operating test equipment and instruments for qualitative and quantitative analysis in accordance with workplace procedures and manufacturer specifications
maintaining and evaluating reagents
processing data, estimating uncertainties, preparing calibration graphs and calculating results in appropriate units and precision
applying basic theoretical knowledge to interpret gross features of data and making relevant conclusions
troubleshooting obvious departures from standard procedures
identifying atypical results as out-of-normal range or an artefact using reference material or quality control sera
tracing and sourcing obvious causes of an artefact
communicating problems to a supervisor or outside service technician
recording and communicating results according to workplace procedures
maintaining security, integrity, traceability and identity of samples, sub-samples and documentation
safely collecting, storing and disposing of biohazardous wastes.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
biological principles and concepts underpinning tests and procedures associated with job role, such as:
chemical and biochemical characteristics of lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and proteins influencing structure, function and reactivity both in vitro and in vivo
molecular interactions within the compounds of nucleic acids and nucleotides, proteins and amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids and vitamins, influencing structure, activity, chemical reactivity and physical properties, including solubility, energy levels and emission/absorption spectra
chemical significance of biologically significant ions, such as calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride and phosphate
basic structure and function of organelles, cells, plant and animal tissue and organs relevant to the testing requirements
interrelationships of biological systems (carbon cycle, energy cycle, eutrophication and the web of life)
classification and taxonomy of organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, yeasts, single cell, multi-cellular, plants, animals, prions, helminths, prokaryotes and eukaryotes
phases of the cell cycle
Mendelian genetics, such as inheritance, meiosis, karyotypes, dominant and recessive traits, genotypes and phenotypes, and pedigrees
significance of the genetic code and transcription and translation
cell membrane activity, including diffusion (passive, facilitated and active), osmosis, tonicity and plasmolysis
staining reactions involving acid/base, redox, complex ion formation, solubility and equilibrium
operating principles and function of key components of the equipment and instruments used as part of job role
effects of modifying equipment and instrument variables
basic equipment and method troubleshooting procedures
calculation steps to give results in appropriate units and precision
sources of uncertainty in measurement and methods for control
importance and appropriate use of controls and certified reference materials
workplace and legal requirements for traceability
relevant hazards and risks in biological laboratories, work health and safety (WHS) and environmental requirements.
Judgment 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:
MSL924001 Process and interpret data
MSL974003 Perform chemical tests and procedures
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of results obtained by the candidate over a period of time to ensure accuracy, consistency and timeliness
review of testing records and workplace documentation completed by the candidate
feedback from peers and supervisors about the candidate’s ability to perform biological procedures safely and reliably
observation of candidate conducting a range of biological procedures
oral or written questioning of biological concepts and principles, techniques and methods and workplace procedures relevant to candidate’s job role.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
a standard laboratory equipped with appropriate test equipment and instruments, safety equipment, reagents and materials
standard operating procedures (SOPs) and testing methods
records, including:
test calibration results
equipment use, maintenance and servicing history
faulty or unsafe equipment
batch number, catalogue number and use-by-date for analytical kits.
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.