Assessor Resource

MSL975020
Apply routine spectrometric techniques

Assessment tool

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


This unit of competency covers the ability to analyse samples using routine spectrometric techniques. The unit also includes establishing client needs for routine and non-routine samples, optimising workplace procedures and instruments for specific samples, obtaining valid and reliable data and reporting test results. Personnel are required to recognise atypical test data/results and troubleshoot common analytical procedure and equipment problems.

This unit of competency is applicable to technical officers working in all industry sectors, government agencies and research laboratories. All operations and analytical methods must comply with relevant standards, appropriate procedures and/or workplace requirements. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technician will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that clearly describe the scope of permitted practice, including varying workplace/test procedures and communicating results to people outside the laboratory.

While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, laboratory operations are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.

You may want to include more information here about the target group and the purpose of the assessments (eg formative, summative, recognition)


Evidence Required

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

Establish client needs and schedule analysis

1.1

Liaise with client or sample provider to determine client needs and sample history

1.2

Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies

1.3

Identify non-routine samples and the possible need to vary workplace procedures

1.4

Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes

1.5

Schedule analysis using workplace procedures

2

Prepare samples and standards

2.1

Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample

2.2

Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements

2.3

Prepare validation checks for analytical portion

3

Set up and optimise instrument

3.1

Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures

3.2

Start up and condition the instrument using workplace procedures

3.3

Optimise instrumental parameters to suit sample and test requirements

3.4

Check calibration status of instrument and perform calibration using specified standards and procedures, as required

4

Perform analysis

4.1

Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples

4.2

Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data

4.3

Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required

5

Process and analyse data

5.1

Confirm data is the result of valid measurements

5.2

Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations

5.3

Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units

5.4

Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method

6.2

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested

6.3

Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts

6.4

Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste

6.5

Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures

7

Maintain laboratory records

7.1

Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS)

7.2

Maintain equipment logs in accordance with workplace procedures

7.3

Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

7.4

Communicate results to appropriate personnel

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

accurately interpreting client requests, test methods/procedures

applying routine spectrometric techniques on least three (3) occasions to obtain valid and reliable data

establishing client needs for routine and non-routine samples

preparing samples using at least three (3) different processes

preparing standards

safely setting up, operating and shutting down equipment

checking calibration and qualification status of equipment

choosing and optimising procedures and equipment settings to suit sample and test requirements, such as selection of wavelength maxima and position of burner

making approved adjustments to procedures for non-routine samples

interpreting data, recognising atypical test data and results and making relevant conclusions

troubleshooting common analytical procedure and equipment problems

preparing and using calibration charts and standards

identifying and calculating potential sources of uncertainty

calculating results using appropriate equations, units, uncertainties and precision

recording and reporting data and results in accordance with workplace procedures

maintaining security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

following workplace safety procedures.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

relationship of chemical structure to electromagnetic radiation absorption, spectrometric principles and concepts related to instrumentation operation and testing

use of different spectrometric methods for qualitative and quantitative analysis and preparation of specific samples relevant to job role

handling of unstable or hazardous chemicals and samples and the fragile and labile nature of biological materials

sample preparation procedures

function of key components of the equipment and effects on spectra of modifying and optimising instrumental variables, such as wavelength, slit width, burner position and lamp voltage

basic procedure and equipment troubleshooting techniques

common analytical procedure and equipment problems, such as:

dirty or contaminated sample cells

inappropriate selection of wavelength

problems with interfering or complexing substances

incomplete atomisation of analyte

poor resolution of peaks

poor sensitivity

need to dilute samples

calculation steps to give results in appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units

workplace and legal traceability requirements

basic equipment maintenance procedures

relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment 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:

MSL925001 Analyse data and report results

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of test data and results obtained by the candidate over time to ensure accuracy, consistency and timeliness of results

inspection of test records and workplace documentation completed by the candidate

feedback from peers and supervisors

observation of the candidate applying a range of routine spectrometric techniques

oral or written questioning of chemical principles and concepts, spectrometric techniques and workplace procedures.

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 spectrometers, laboratory reagents and equipment, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test methods.

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.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assingnment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Establish client needs and schedule analysis

1.1

Liaise with client or sample provider to determine client needs and sample history

1.2

Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies

1.3

Identify non-routine samples and the possible need to vary workplace procedures

1.4

Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes

1.5

Schedule analysis using workplace procedures

2

Prepare samples and standards

2.1

Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample

2.2

Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements

2.3

Prepare validation checks for analytical portion

3

Set up and optimise instrument

3.1

Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures

3.2

Start up and condition the instrument using workplace procedures

3.3

Optimise instrumental parameters to suit sample and test requirements

3.4

Check calibration status of instrument and perform calibration using specified standards and procedures, as required

4

Perform analysis

4.1

Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples

4.2

Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data

4.3

Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required

5

Process and analyse data

5.1

Confirm data is the result of valid measurements

5.2

Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations

5.3

Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units

5.4

Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel

5.5

Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results

6

Maintain a safe work environment

6.1

Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method

6.2

Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested

6.3

Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts

6.4

Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste

6.5

Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures

7

Maintain laboratory records

7.1

Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS)

7.2

Maintain equipment logs in accordance with workplace procedures

7.3

Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

7.4

Communicate results to appropriate personnel

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements include the latest version of one or more of:

Australian and international standards covering the requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories, laboratory design and construction, physical containment levels and facility types, laboratory safety, and quality and environmental management

national work health and safety (WHS) standards and codes of practice, and national measurement regulations and guidelines

Australian and international standards and guidelines covering chemical analysis by spectrometry/spectrophotometry, accuracy of measurement methods and results, expression of uncertainty and quantifying uncertainty

specific codes, guidelines, procedures and methods, such as the Australian code of good manufacturing practice for medicinal products (GMP), and principles of good laboratory practice (GLP)

workplace documents, such as SOPs; quality and equipment manuals; calibration and maintenance schedules; material safety data sheets (MSDS) and safety procedures; material, production and product specifications; production and laboratory schedules; workplace recording and reporting procedures; waste minimisation and safe disposal procedures; cleaning, hygiene and personal hygiene requirements; and stock records and inventory

sampling procedures (labelling, preparation, storage, transport and disposal)

test procedures (validated and authorised)

Routine spectrometric techniques

Routine spectrometric techniques include one or more of:

ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS)

infrared, including Fourier transform infrared and near infrared

atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS)

fluorescence

flame emission spectroscopy

Tests

Tests include, but are not limited to, methods for one or more of:

control of starting materials, in-process materials and finished products (e.g. petroleum, food, mining and manufacturing)

environmental monitoring pollutants in air, water, soil and vegetation

forensic tests

therapeutic drug analysis

diagnostic pathology tests

determinations of enzyme activity

routine chemical analytes, such as starch, glucose, DNA and therapeutic degradation products

troubleshooting workplace processes

Preparation of sample

Preparation of sample includes, but is not limited to one or more of:

identification of hazards associated with samples and/or analytical chemicals

use of processes, such as grinding, mulling, preparation of discs, ashing, dissolving, refluxing, extraction, filtration, evaporation, precipitation, centrifugation, drying and washing

determination of and, if appropriate, removal of any contaminants, impurities or interfering substances

Safe work practices

Safe work practices include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

ensuring access to service shut-off points

recognising and observing hazard warnings and safety signs

labelling of samples, reagents, aliquoted samples and hazardous materials

handling and storage of hazardous materials and equipment in accordance with labelling, MSDS and manufacturer instructions

identifying and reporting operating problems or equipment malfunctions

cleaning and decontaminating equipment and work areas regularly using workplace procedures

using PPE, such as gloves, safety glasses, coveralls and gowns

reporting abnormal emissions, discharges and airborne contaminants, such as noise, light, solids, liquids, water/wastewater, gases, smoke, vapour, fumes, odour and particulates, to appropriate personnel

WHS and environmental management requirements

WHS and environmental management requirements include:

· complying with WHS and environmental management requirements at all times, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation. These requirements must not be compromised at any time

· applying standard precautions relating to the potentially hazardous nature of samples

accessing and applying current industry understanding of infection control issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and State and Territory Departments of Health, where relevant

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

accurately interpreting client requests, test methods/procedures

applying routine spectrometric techniques on least three (3) occasions to obtain valid and reliable data

establishing client needs for routine and non-routine samples

preparing samples using at least three (3) different processes

preparing standards

safely setting up, operating and shutting down equipment

checking calibration and qualification status of equipment

choosing and optimising procedures and equipment settings to suit sample and test requirements, such as selection of wavelength maxima and position of burner

making approved adjustments to procedures for non-routine samples

interpreting data, recognising atypical test data and results and making relevant conclusions

troubleshooting common analytical procedure and equipment problems

preparing and using calibration charts and standards

identifying and calculating potential sources of uncertainty

calculating results using appropriate equations, units, uncertainties and precision

recording and reporting data and results in accordance with workplace procedures

maintaining security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation

following workplace safety procedures.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

relationship of chemical structure to electromagnetic radiation absorption, spectrometric principles and concepts related to instrumentation operation and testing

use of different spectrometric methods for qualitative and quantitative analysis and preparation of specific samples relevant to job role

handling of unstable or hazardous chemicals and samples and the fragile and labile nature of biological materials

sample preparation procedures

function of key components of the equipment and effects on spectra of modifying and optimising instrumental variables, such as wavelength, slit width, burner position and lamp voltage

basic procedure and equipment troubleshooting techniques

common analytical procedure and equipment problems, such as:

dirty or contaminated sample cells

inappropriate selection of wavelength

problems with interfering or complexing substances

incomplete atomisation of analyte

poor resolution of peaks

poor sensitivity

need to dilute samples

calculation steps to give results in appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units

workplace and legal traceability requirements

basic equipment maintenance procedures

relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment 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:

MSL925001 Analyse data and report results

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of test data and results obtained by the candidate over time to ensure accuracy, consistency and timeliness of results

inspection of test records and workplace documentation completed by the candidate

feedback from peers and supervisors

observation of the candidate applying a range of routine spectrometric techniques

oral or written questioning of chemical principles and concepts, spectrometric techniques and workplace procedures.

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 spectrometers, laboratory reagents and equipment, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and test methods.

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.
Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Liaise with client or sample provider to determine client needs and sample history 
Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies 
Identify non-routine samples and the possible need to vary workplace procedures 
Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes 
Schedule analysis using workplace procedures 
Obtain a representative analytical portion of the laboratory sample 
Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements 
Prepare validation checks for analytical portion 
Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures 
Start up and condition the instrument using workplace procedures 
Optimise instrumental parameters to suit sample and test requirements 
Check calibration status of instrument and perform calibration using specified standards and procedures, as required 
Measure analyte response for standards, validation checks and samples 
Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data 
Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required 
Confirm data is the result of valid measurements 
Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations 
Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units 
Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel 
Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results 
Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method 
Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested 
Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts 
Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory waste 
Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures 
Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS) 
Maintain equipment logs in accordance with workplace procedures 
Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation 
Communicate results to appropriate personnel 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MSL975020 - Apply routine spectrometric techniques
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

MSL975020 - Apply routine spectrometric techniques

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: