Elements and Performance Criteria
- Interpret and schedule client requirements
- Review client request to identify sample/analysis requirements, preparation methods and equipment involved
- Inspect samples, compare with specifications, record and report any discrepancies
- Liaise with client when samples and/or request forms do not comply with enterprise procedures
- Identify hazards and enterprise controls associated with the sample, preparation methods, reagents and equipment
- Plan parallel work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple sets of samples
- Assemble all required equipment materials, reagents and check they are fit for purpose
- Prepare client samples for analysis
- Estimate safe times for the preparation of required sample proportions
- Split samples to obtain representative sub-samples as required
- Safely operate comminution equipment
- Monitor texture of the samples as an indicator of particle size and adjust milling times accordingly
- Monitor sample compaction and build up of residues on equipment and rectify as necessary
- Record preparation difficulties that may impact on quality or cause additional client costs
- Report any departure from preparation methods or client specifications
- Label client samples and record chain of custody information
- Store all client samples in accordance with enterprise procedures
- Use non-destructive methods to prepare laboratory portions for analysis
- Examine the recommended preparation method to identify critical steps that will affect the quality of analytical results
- Closely follow each preparation step with particular attention to safety, precision and minimisation of cross-contamination of samples
- Monitor parameters that indicate completion or failure of each preparation step
- Analyse and record invalid preparation steps and take corrective action before repeating the procedure
- Present laboratory portions for analysis in appropriate containers with all required chain of custody documentation
- Maintain a safe work environment
- Apply established safe work practices and use protective equipment to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
- Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts
- Ensure the safe disposal of all hazardous waste and spent/surplus samples
- Clean, care for and store equipment and reagents as required