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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Receive, handle and store samples
   • Register samples upon receipt in accordance with quality and workplace procedures
   • Check labelling and history of sampling in accordance with laboratory procedures
   • Record sample information and cross-reference with current or previous test data according to workplace requirements
   • Observe universal precautions and relevant legislative requirements during the handling and storage of all samples
   • Record samples requiring analysis by external laboratories and forward following workplace procedures
   • Dispose of unwanted samples in accordance with workplace and hygiene standards
2. Prepare for sample collection
   • Confirm type of sample required prior to collection
   • Follow prescribed procedures to ensure representative sampling and record details to workplace requirements
   • Prepare or assemble appropriate sampling equipment to safety and workplace requirements
3. Perform sample collection
   • Collect gross samples in accordance with workplace procedures
   • Preserve sample integrity throughout all aspects of sampling
   • Place samples in suitable containers and label to clearly identify sample type, location, date and any other workplace-specific information
   • Store, preserve and transport samples in accordance with relevant regulations and laboratory procedures
   • Maintained sampling equipment in clean, safe and sterile working order
   • Recognised and report unusual or non-standard observations made during sampling
4. Perform standard chemical or biological sample preparation (where applicable)
   • Prepared samples and controls for analysis
   • Take action to minimise loss of analyses from sample
   • Use separation equipment to provide the required sample fractions
5. Receive, handle and store samples
   • Register samples upon receipt in accordance with quality and workplace procedures
   • Check labelling and history of sampling in accordance with laboratory procedures
   • Record sample information and cross-reference with current or previous test data according to workplace requirements
   • Observe universal precautions and relevant legislative requirements during the handling and storage of all samples
   • Record samples requiring analysis by external laboratories and forward following workplace procedures
   • Dispose of unwanted samples in accordance with workplace and hygiene standards
6. Prepare for sample collection
   • Confirm type of sample required prior to collection
   • Follow prescribed procedures to ensure representative sampling and record details to workplace requirements
   • Prepare or assemble appropriate sampling equipment to safety and workplace requirements
7. Perform sample collection
   • Collect gross samples in accordance with workplace procedures
   • Preserve sample integrity throughout all aspects of sampling
   • Place samples in suitable containers and label to clearly identify sample type, location, date and any other workplace-specific information
   • Store, preserve and transport samples in accordance with relevant regulations and laboratory procedures
   • Maintained sampling equipment in clean, safe and sterile working order
   • Recognised and report unusual or non-standard observations made during sampling
8. Perform standard chemical or biological sample preparation (where applicable)
   • Prepared samples and controls for analysis
   • Take action to minimise loss of analyses from sample
   • Use separation equipment to provide the required sample fractions

Range Statement

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Performance Evidence

Evidence must demonstrate the candidate’s consistency of performance over time. Sample collection techniques must comply with the relevant meat industry regulations and standards.

The candidate must:

collect samples in accordance with workplace and regulatory requirements

apply relevant workplace health and safety requirements

use relevant communications skills

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Knowledge Evidence

The candidate must demonstrate a factual, technical, procedural and theoretical knowledge of:

procedures for collecting, receiving, handling and storing specimens in accordance with laboratory procedures, universal precautions and legislative requirements

use of aseptic techniques in collecting samples

how sample collection has to be coordinated with workplace activities

importance of obtaining representative samples and how this can be achieved

procedures for documenting all pertinent sample information in the required format

workplace Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for collecting and preparing samples

relevant workplace health and safety requirements

steps in preparing samples and sub-samples to comply with required procedures

workplace procedures to recognise sampling equipment and, as required, maintain it in a sterile condition

correct disposal procedures

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