Elements and Performance Criteria
- Recommend a suitable instrument
- Confirm the scope of analysis for which instrumentation is required
- Research information about the specifications and features of instruments that may be suitable and their suppliers
- Research information about the environmental operating conditions and services that instruments require
- Liaise with suppliers and/or conduct tests to compare the stated performance of available instruments against enterprise specifications
- Seek advice/assistance with evaluating instruments if beyond own technical competence
- Assist senior staff to select the most suitable instrument
- Develop a thorough understanding of the selected instrument's operation, installation requirements, routine instrument checks and maintenance requirements
- Establish a suitable operating environment for an instrument
- Commission a new instrument
- Liaise with supplier to arrange delivery and installation as appropriate
- Ensure that the supplier fully explains the instrument's operation and maintenance requirements during installation
- Ensure that full qualification of the instrument's performance is completed prior to instrument handover
- Conduct in-house checks of accessories and test measurements to confirm instrument performance for the full scope of intended use
- Liaise with supplier to resolve any performance issues, clarify aspects of instrument operation or provide additional training
- Enter all required information about the new instrument into the enterprise information management system
- Assess any new risks to instrument operators, other laboratory personnel and the environment
- Develop and document clear procedures for safely operating and maintaining the instrument and recording its use
- Train, or arrange training for, instrument operators
- Identify the knowledge and skills required to operate the instrument safely and reliably in the workplace and to evaluate the data obtained
- Develop, or access, an appropriate training program for instrument operators
- Ensure that each operator can use the instrument competently for the required analytical methods
- Record all training outcomes in accordance with the enterprise procedures
- Audit operator's use of instruments at regular intervals to ensure their ongoing competence