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Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Verify the accuracy of data and technical records
   • Access relevant job instructions, data and technical records in laboratory information management system (LIMS)
2. Confirm that technical records provide sufficient information to ensure traceability for the tests involved
3. Compare data with expected values and identify any outliers
4. Inspect data records to check the integrity of data entry, alterations, transfers and calculations
5. Correct and initial any incorrect data records
6. Sign off data records as correct
7. Determine if results are acceptable and within expectation
   • Compare results with expected values and identify any significant differences
8. Check the reliability of results by examining data, statistical analysis of data and results from repeat tests or duplicate samples
9. Assess the significance of any documented observations of atypical test conditions or environment and/or sample appearance
10. Check that all calculations are free from error
11. Check that estimates of uncertainty are reasonable and consistent with the test method, client and/or product specification requirements
12. Authorise the issue of results that meet the organisation's quality standards and are consistent with expectations
13. Investigate unexpected or unacceptable results
    • Examine records of pre-use checks and calibration performance to ensure that the equipment and/or instruments used meet test specifications and workplace requirements
14. Establish whether human and/or environmental factors could have affected the reliability of results
15. Check for obvious sources of interferences that may have occurred during measurements
16. Retrieve stored samples (if available) and assess whether they are atypical or contaminated
17. Perform control tests using the same, or new, samples to check unexpected results
18. Authorise the issue of unexpected results that meet the organisation's quality standards
19. Identify possible root causes of unacceptable results and appropriate preventative/corrective actions
20. Report investigation outcomes and recommendations for improvements in accordance with workplace procedures
21. Liaise with clients about results
    • Establish whether sampling procedures used by the client could contribute to unexpected/unacceptable results
22. Arrange for new samples and/or re-testing as necessary
23. Explain investigation outcomes and confidence level for unexpected test results