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 | Prepare automated analysis system for operation | 1.1 | Confirm equipment status, shift priorities, work flow issues and/or specific client requirements with supervisor and other operators |
| 1.2 | Plan or adjust work flow to suit maintenance or servicing as required |
| 1.3 | Review job requests to identify samples/batches, required operating parameters and any special instructions/analyses for each |
| 1.4 | Identify hazards, safety equipment and safe work procedures associated with samples, reagents, analytical methods and operating robotic arms |
| 1.5 | Perform routine system checks at start of shift |
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2 | Conduct or monitor loading of samples into system | 2.1 | For systems with a manual in-feed station, prepare vials with the specified sample volume and load them in the correct sequence |
| 2.2 | For fully automated systems, monitor sample in-feed station to ensure vials contain specified minimum volumes |
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3 | Monitor and adjust system operation | 3.1 | Adjust system operating parameters, such as furnace temperature, to suit specific batch requirements |
| 3.2 | Monitor control screens continuously and respond promptly to error codes |
| 3.3 | Conduct regular visual checks to ensure that system elements are operating correctly |
| 3.4 | Interpret routine error codes to identify faulty system elements |
| 3.5 | Take control of system and activate interlocks to isolate relevant system elements before investigating faults |
| 3.6 | Clean and reposition robots, vials, crucibles or other system elements as necessary |
| 3.7 | Use appropriate system checks and commands to reset system elements, re-enter sample data and resume operations |
| 3.8 | Seek advice about dealing with any situation beyond scope of responsibility or knowledge |
| 3.9 | Liaise with and assist relevant service personnel to ensure major breakdowns are rectified promptly |
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4 | Maintain a safe work environment | 4.1 | Use safe work practices, safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of others |
| 4.2 | Clean and maintain system elements, maintain consumable stocks, and care for and store equipment as required |
| 4.3 | Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts |
| 4.4 | Segregate and dispose of wastes in accordance with workplace requirements |
Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
operating an automated mineral analysis system safely, reliably and efficiently for at least three (3) different sets of operating conditions or three (3) different types of samples
interpreting and applying workplace procedures for operating an automated mineral analysis system
recognising potential problems caused by prior sample handling and/or preparation
applying specified start-up/shutdown procedures and system checks
recognising and promptly responding to common system error codes
taking control of the system and safely investigating and rectifying faults using specified procedures
cleaning and repositioning automated system elements
using appropriate commands to reset system, update system information and resume operations after stoppages
maintaining sequential control of samples through all stages of analysis
recognising hazards and using specified safety equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) and safe work practices
communicating problems clearly and promptly to supervisors and/or service personnel
minimising rework, waste and environmental impacts
working safely.
Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
importance of good customer relations, achieving production targets and minimising costs and rework
purpose of analytical tests conducted in job role
function and operation of automated system elements and flow chart for automated analysis process
computer operating procedures, including use of specific control screens, menus and control commands
common faults, routine system error codes and specified corrective actions for each
procedures for cleaning/maintaining equipment and instruments used in job role
procedures for preventing contamination of samples and equipment
procedures for ensuring traceability of samples
relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.
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).
Holistic assessment methods include:
review of production data in operator/system logs showing the range of operating conditions and samples handled by the candidate
review of quality control performance and analytical results traceable to samples handled by the candidate
feedback from supervisors, other operators and/or service personnel about the candidate’s ability to safely operate an automated mineral analysis system, achieve quality and production targets, communicate effectively with other personnel and seek advice when necessary
observation of the candidate using an automated mineral analysis system and handling stoppages or breakdowns
oral or written questions to assess candidate’s knowledge of automated system procedures, prioritising work flows, recognising and rectifying common faults, and safe work procedures.
Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
an automated mineral analysis system, operating procedures, reagents, sample containers and labels
mineral ore samples, such as iron ore
client requests/documentation, such as client profile, sample identification and sample receipts, required analyses, storage and/or disposal, and service charges
safe work procedures, safety equipment and PPE.
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.