Required skills

Required skills include

performing calculations of scientific quantities

using scientific notation

applying the concepts of metrology

applying calculations to the workplace

coding recording and checking data accurately

presenting accurate results in the required format

preparing graphs tables and charts eg pie bar and histogram andor simple maps

comparing data with reference values and interpreting variations and trends in data eg seasonal diurnal location and nonconformance

maintaining the confidentiality of data in accordance with enterprise and regulatory requirements

seeking advice when issuesproblems are beyond scope of competenceresponsibility

Required knowledge

Required knowledge includes

concepts of metrology

the international system of units SI

relevant scientific and technical terminology

uncertainty associated with measurement steps

procedures for coding entering storing retrieving and communicating data

procedures for verifying data and rectifying mistakes

converting units involving multiples and submultiples

significant figures rounding off estimating and approximating

transposing and evaluating formulae

calculations involving fractions decimals proportions and percentages

determining statistical values of data such as mean median mode and standard deviation

procedures for maintaining and filing records and maintaining security of data

Overview of assessment

Competency must be demonstrated in the ability to perform consistently at the required standard

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessors must be satisfied that the candidate can competently and consistently apply the skills covered in this unit of competency in new and different situations and contexts Critical aspects of assessment and evidence include

coding recording and checking the documentation of data

calculating statistical quantities relevant to the workplace and presenting accurate results in the required format

recognising anomalies variations and trends in data

maintaining the confidentiality of data in accordance with workplace and regulatory requirements

keeping records uptodate and secure

Context of and specific resources for assessment

This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment

Assessment should emphasise a workplace context and procedures found in the candidates workplace

This unit of competency may be assessed with

MSLA Use laboratory application software

MSL924002A Use laboratory application software

environmental monitoring units such as

MSLA Undertake environmental fieldbased monitoring

MSL974007A Undertake environmental field-based monitoring

MSSA Apply an understanding of environmental principles to a site

MSS024003A Apply an understanding of environmental principles to a site

MSSA Perform sampling and testing of water

MSS024006A Perform sampling and testing of water.

The competencies covered by this unit would be demonstrated by an individual working alone or as part of a team

Resources may include

data sets and records

computer and relevant software or laboratory information system

relevant workplace procedures

Method of assessment

The following assessment methods are suggested

review of data worksheets calculations computer files such as spreadsheets databases and statistical analysis graphs tables charts andor simple maps prepared by the candidate

review of records transcribed maintained or stored by the candidate

questions to assess understanding of relevant procedures and trends in data

feedback from supervisors and peers about the candidates ability to consistently follow enterprise procedures

observation of the candidate as they process data file and store records

In all cases practical assessment should be supported by questions to assess underpinning knowledge and those aspects of competency which are difficult to assess directly

Where applicable reasonable adjustment must be made to work environments and training situations to accommodate ethnicity age gender demographics and disability

The language literacy and numeracy demands of assessment should not be greater than those required to undertake the unit of competency in a worklike environment

Guidance information for assessment

Codes of practice

Standards, codes, procedures and/or enterprise requirements

Concepts of metrology

Environmental data

Calculations

Calculations of scientific quantities

Records

Occupational health and safety (OHS) and environmental management requirements