Elements and Performance Criteria
- Perform analysis
- Establish client needs and schedule analysis
- Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies
- Identify non-routine samples and the possible need to vary workplace procedures
- Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes
- Schedule analysis using workplace procedures
- Prepare samples and standards
- Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements
- Prepare validation checks for analytical portion
- Set up and optimise instrument
- Start up and condition the instrument using workplace procedures
- Optimise instrumental parameters to suit sample and test requirements
- Check calibration status of instrument and perform calibration using specified standards and procedures, as required
- Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with workplace procedures
- Conduct sufficient measurements to obtain reliable data
- Return instruments to standby or shutdown condition as required
- Process and analyse data
- Perform required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations
- Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision and units
- Analyse trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
- Troubleshoot analytical procedure or equipment problems which have led to atypical data or results
- Maintain laboratory records
- Ensure traceability of sample from receipt to reporting of results