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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare seed extraction and gel
   • Prepare working sample from submitted sample
   • Identify seed to be tested and complete records
   • Cut or crush single seeds and transfer to centrifuge tubes
   • Add extraction solution and mix with crushed seeds and allow to stand for prescribed period
   • Centrifuge tubes and collect and store supernatants
   • Prepare gel mixture and chemicals and use to achieve required level of polymerisation
2. Carry out electrophoresis
   • Place buffer solution in tanks
   • Load samples into wells and place gel in tanks
   • Carry out electrophoresis at the prescribed voltage and duration
   • Maintain temperature as required throughout the process
3. Fix and stain sample
   • Remove gel from tank and treat with chemicals as prescribed
   • Wash gel and treat to enhance stain
   • Examine and/or photograph stain
4. Evaluate stain
   • Compare banding pattern with that of an authentic variety or that of a known control sample
   • Provide records and reports
   • Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to atypical data or results
5. Maintain a safe work environment
   • Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment
   • Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts
   • Ensure the safe collection of laboratory and hazardous waste for subsequent disposal
   • Care for and store equipment and reagents
6. Maintain laboratory records
   • Enter approved data into laboratory information management system
   • Maintain confidentiality and security of enterprise information and laboratory data

Range Statement

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Performance Evidence

The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.

The candidate must provide evidence that they can:

extract seed and prepare gel

centrifuge seed and gel mixes

interpret stain bands and patterns

test seed by separating proteins of varying size and/or electric charge

enter data into laboratory information management system

maintain confidentiality and security of information and data

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:

enterprise standard operating procedures (SOPs)

materials and apparatus used in electrophoresis testing

principles of electrophoresis

range of electrophoresis testing procedures

relevant health, safety and environment requirements

seed biology

the role of the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the ISTA Rules for Seed Testing

using stain patterns and ‘fingerprints’ to determine seed variety

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