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Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Interpret and schedule test requirements
   • Access relevant job instructions from laboratory information management system (LIMS)
2. Interpret test request to confirm samples to be tested, the test method and equipment involved
3. Identify hazards and workplace controls associated with the sample, preparation methods, reagents and/or equipment
4. Assemble all required equipment and materials
5. Plan work sequences for optimum efficiency and/or throughput of multiple samples
6. Prepare samples or test pieces
   • Retrieve samples and/or test pieces from storage and record their general appearance
7. Check the accuracy and completeness of accompanying labels and documentation to ensure traceability
8. Check that the storage/curing conditions of samples and/or test pieces were appropriate
9. Compare samples and/or test pieces with test specifications, record observations and report discrepancies
10. Prepare samples and/or test pieces in accordance with appropriate test method
11. Conduct preliminary measurements to establish initial dimensions and test conditions as necessary
12. Check test equipment before use
    • Set up test equipment/instruments in accordance with test method
13. Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with workplace procedures
14. Identify faulty or unsafe equipment/instruments and report to appropriate personnel
15. Check calibration status of instruments and report any out-of-calibration items to appropriate personnel
16. Conduct test to determine sample properties
    • Perform each treatment/measurement stage of the test method precisely and in the correct sequence
17. Record all data, observations and any factors that may impact on the quality of results
18. Recognise obvious errors or atypical data and take appropriate corrective actions
19. Seek advice to deal with any situation beyond own technical competence
20. Shut down test equipment/instruments in accordance with workplace procedures
21. Process and interpret data
    • Check data for accuracy and completeness
22. Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with expected values for the sample type
23. Record and report results with the appropriate accuracy, precision and units
24. Interpret trends in data and/or results and report out of specification or unexpected results promptly to appropriate personnel
25. Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to unexpected data or results
26. Maintain laboratory records
    • Enter approved data and test results into LIMS
27. Maintain confidentiality and security of workplace information and test results
28. Maintain technical/administrative records and test reports in accordance with workplace procedures
29. Maintain a safe work environment
    • Use safe work procedures and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of others
30. Minimise generation of wastes and environmental impacts of testing
31. Collect and/or dispose of all waste in accordance with environmental/quarantine requirements and workplace procedures
32. Care for and store equipment, used test pieces and back-up samples in accordance with workplace procedures