Unit of Competency Mapping – Information for Teachers/Assessors – Information for Learners

MSL975001 Mapping and Delivery Guide
Perform microbiological tests

Version 1.0
Issue Date: May 2024


Qualification -
Unit of Competency MSL975001 - Perform microbiological tests
Description
Employability Skills
Learning Outcomes and Application This unit of competency covers the ability to contribute to the culture, isolation and identification of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoans, algae and parasites, in order to investigate the physiology and pathology of plants and animals, monitor the natural environment, and to assist in the production of foods, pharmaceutical goods and other manufactured materials.This unit of competency is applicable to laboratory technicians and technical officers working in the biomedical, biotechnology, environmental, manufacturing and food processing industry sectors. The results of work performed by technical personnel would normally be integrated, interpreted and reported on by scientists, medical, veterinary or plant pathologists or other responsible officers in a workplace. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technician will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that will clearly describe the scope of permitted practice in modifying testing procedures, interpreting of data and for communicating test results to people outside the laboratory. It is applicable to investigations as well as addressing the broader needs of biotechnology and tissue culture applications.While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, laboratory operations are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.
Duration and Setting X weeks, nominally xx hours, delivered in a classroom/online/blended learning setting.

Judgment of competence must be based on holistic assessment of the evidence. Assessment methods must confirm consistency of performance over time, rather than a single assessment event.

This unit of competency is to be assessed in the workplace or a simulated workplace environment. A simulated workplace environment must reflect realistic operational workplace conditions that cover all aspects of workplace performance, including the environment, task skills, task management skills, contingency management skills and job role environment skills.

Foundation skills are integral to competent performance of the unit and should not be assessed separately.

Assessment processes and techniques must be appropriate to the language, literacy and numeracy requirements of the work being performed and the needs of the candidate.

Knowledge evidence may be collected concurrently with performance evidence or through an independent process, such as workbooks, written assessments or interviews (provided a record is kept in each case).

This unit of competency may be assessed with:

MSL934002 Apply quality system and continuous improvement processes

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of results/data/records generated by the candidate

feedback from peers and supervisors to confirm that the candidate consistently follows workplace procedures and generates results that meet workplace requirements

oral and/or written questions associated with laboratory determinations and record keeping

integrated assessment with a case study focus, such as the isolation and identification of bacterial species in a specimen containing two or more species by relating sample, cultural, morphological and biochemical data from other relevant tests and procedures.

Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:

a standard microbiology laboratory with relevant samples; reagents; protective and physical containment equipment; sample preparation and storage equipment; test equipment, such as microscopes and counters; and sterilising equipment, such as autoclaves

workplace procedures, test methods and equipment manuals.

Under duty of care requirements, off-the-job training providers will only use samples and organisms of a risk category compatible with their laboratory as defined in AS/NZS 2243.3 Set:2006 Safety in laboratories.

Assessors must satisfy the assessor competency requirements that are in place at the time of the assessment as set by the VET regulator.

The assessor must demonstrate both technical competence and currency.

Technical competence can be demonstrated through:

relevant VET or other qualification/Statement of Attainment AND/OR

relevant workplace experience.

Currency can be demonstrated through:

performing the competency being assessed as part of current employment OR

having consulted with a laboratory about performing the competency being assessed within the last twelve months.
Prerequisites/co-requisites
Competency Field Testing
Development and validation strategy and guide for assessors and learners Student Learning Resources Handouts
Activities 		Slides
PPT 		Assessment 1 Assessment 2 Assessment 3 Assessment 4
Elements of Competency Performance Criteria              
Element: Receive samples and process associated request forms
  • Check samples and request form details before they are accepted
  • Return samples and request forms that do not comply with requirements to source with reasons for non-acceptance
  • Log samples, recording details that allow accurate tracking and chain of custody
  • Distribute samples for local testing or dispatch samples to other testing facilities
  • Store samples appropriately where testing or transport is to be delayed
       
Element: Prepare for safe microbiological work and aseptic applications
  • Select work area and equipment required for the safe handling of materials that may contain microorganisms of specified risk groups
  • Wear protective apparel, replacing it when contamination is suspected
  • Apply correct disinfection procedures to work areas before and after use
  • Locate relevant emergency equipment for timely response to microbiological accidents
  • Apply standard precautions when handling biological materials
  • Minimise the production and release of aerosols, using biological safety cabinets where necessary
  • Clean spills, and report all spills and suspected incidents to supervisor
  • Wash hands before and after laboratory work and when contamination is suspected
  • Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures
       
Element: Process samples for direct examination
  • Prepare thin smears of samples for subsequent staining to enable microscopic identification of cells
  • Prepare liquid films of specimens for direct observation for motility or cell structure
  • Prepare samples to concentrate material for subsequent staining or microscopy
       
Element: Prepare pure cultures for microbiological work and aseptic applications
  • Select culture media to maximise growth of microorganisms and cells
  • Inoculate media aseptically, applying techniques suitable for purpose of culture
  • Incubate inoculated media in conditions to optimise growth of organisms and cells
  • Subculture on suitable media to optimise production of pure cultures
       
Element: Perform procedures that can assist in the identification of microorganisms
  • Select staining techniques to demonstrate required cellular characteristics
  • Stain prepared films to demonstrate diagnostically useful characteristics
  • Inoculate and incubate media with pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms
  • Perform tests on pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms
  • Perform antibiotic sensitivity testing, if required
       
Element: Estimate the number and/or size of micro-organisms in samples
  • Count cells in undiluted samples to indicate the dilution necessary to reliably count organisms in culture
  • Prepare serial dilutions of samples aseptically for culture and colony counting
  • Count colonies for calculating number of viable organisms per unit volume
  • Count microorganisms in samples and cultures using spectrometric and electronic methodologies, where relevant
  • Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures, where relevant
       
Element: Maintain records of laboratory work
  • Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required
  • Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checklists
  • Maintain security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records
       


Evidence Required

List the assessment methods to be used and the context and resources required for assessment. Copy and paste the relevant sections from the evidence guide below and then re-write these in plain English.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Receive samples and process associated request forms

1.1

Check samples and request form details before they are accepted

1.2

Return samples and request forms that do not comply with requirements to source with reasons for non-acceptance

1.3

Log samples, recording details that allow accurate tracking and chain of custody

1.4

Distribute samples for local testing or dispatch samples to other testing facilities

1.5

Store samples appropriately where testing or transport is to be delayed

2

Prepare for safe microbiological work and aseptic applications

2.1

Select work area and equipment required for the safe handling of materials that may contain microorganisms of specified risk groups

2.2

Wear protective apparel, replacing it when contamination is suspected

2.3

Apply correct disinfection procedures to work areas before and after use

2.4

Locate relevant emergency equipment for timely response to microbiological accidents

2.5

Apply standard precautions when handling biological materials

2.6

Minimise the production and release of aerosols, using biological safety cabinets where necessary

2.7

Clean spills, and report all spills and suspected incidents to supervisor

2.8

Wash hands before and after laboratory work and when contamination is suspected

2.9

Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures

3

Process samples for direct examination

3.1

Prepare thin smears of samples for subsequent staining to enable microscopic identification of cells

3.2

Prepare liquid films of specimens for direct observation for motility or cell structure

3.3

Prepare samples to concentrate material for subsequent staining or microscopy

4

Prepare pure cultures for microbiological work and aseptic applications

4.1

Select culture media to maximise growth of microorganisms and cells

4.2

Inoculate media aseptically, applying techniques suitable for purpose of culture

4.3

Incubate inoculated media in conditions to optimise growth of organisms and cells

4.4

Subculture on suitable media to optimise production of pure cultures

5

Perform procedures that can assist in the identification of microorganisms

5.1

Select staining techniques to demonstrate required cellular characteristics

5.2

Stain prepared films to demonstrate diagnostically useful characteristics

5.3

Inoculate and incubate media with pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms

5.4

Perform tests on pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms

5.5

Perform antibiotic sensitivity testing, if required

6

Estimate the number and/or size of micro-organisms in samples

6.1

Count cells in undiluted samples to indicate the dilution necessary to reliably count organisms in culture

6.2

Prepare serial dilutions of samples aseptically for culture and colony counting

6.3

Count colonies for calculating number of viable organisms per unit volume

6.4

Count microorganisms in samples and cultures using spectrometric and electronic methodologies, where relevant

6.5

Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures, where relevant

7

Maintain records of laboratory work

7.1

Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required

7.2

Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checklists

7.3

Maintain security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:

safely performing at least five (5) microbiological tests/procedures for the culturing, isolating, identifying and counting microorganisms

consistently and accurately describing different bacterial colony forms on common media

preparing and staining thin smears and preparing liquid films

estimating the number and size of microorganisms in samples

selecting, inoculating and incubating culture media

performing biochemical and immunological identification tests on pure cultures to assist in the of microorganisms

not contaminating self, other people, the work area, equipment or the samples or materials under test

not contaminating media or reagents during manipulations involving the transfer of cultures

identifying artefacts or image aberrations attributable to misalignment or obstruction of light paths or condensers used in microscopy, or with other steps in microscopic examinations

consistently and accurately performing Gram staining of bacteria

accurately and concisely preparing data and documentation that is in accordance with workplace requirements

reporting all incidents or accidents

disinfecting any spillages and safely disposing of all contaminated materials

decontaminating the work area upon completion of work.

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

microbiological terminology, including bacteriology, parasitology, virology and mycology

disinfection and sterilisation as applied to practical aspects of microbiology

microbial diversity

microorganisms of importance in medicine, in production of foods and other manufactured goods, and in assessment of the natural environment

cell biology and chemistry related to laboratory phenomena, such as growth and isolation of organisms for identification

microbial genetics

rationale for sample dilution when preparing materials for enumerating organisms and other pure culture work (e.g. Most Probable Number (MPN) technique)

need for accurate identification of sample source (e.g. body, specimen, process line and field location)

relevant hazards, work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.

Submission Requirements

List each assessment task's title, type (eg project, observation/demonstration, essay, assignment, checklist) and due date here

Assessment task 1: [title]      Due date:

(add new lines for each of the assessment tasks)

Assessment Tasks

Copy and paste from the following data to produce each assessment task. Write these in plain English and spell out how, when and where the task is to be carried out, under what conditions, and what resources are needed. Include guidelines about how well the candidate has to perform a task for it to be judged satisfactory.

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Receive samples and process associated request forms

1.1

Check samples and request form details before they are accepted

1.2

Return samples and request forms that do not comply with requirements to source with reasons for non-acceptance

1.3

Log samples, recording details that allow accurate tracking and chain of custody

1.4

Distribute samples for local testing or dispatch samples to other testing facilities

1.5

Store samples appropriately where testing or transport is to be delayed

2

Prepare for safe microbiological work and aseptic applications

2.1

Select work area and equipment required for the safe handling of materials that may contain microorganisms of specified risk groups

2.2

Wear protective apparel, replacing it when contamination is suspected

2.3

Apply correct disinfection procedures to work areas before and after use

2.4

Locate relevant emergency equipment for timely response to microbiological accidents

2.5

Apply standard precautions when handling biological materials

2.6

Minimise the production and release of aerosols, using biological safety cabinets where necessary

2.7

Clean spills, and report all spills and suspected incidents to supervisor

2.8

Wash hands before and after laboratory work and when contamination is suspected

2.9

Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures

3

Process samples for direct examination

3.1

Prepare thin smears of samples for subsequent staining to enable microscopic identification of cells

3.2

Prepare liquid films of specimens for direct observation for motility or cell structure

3.3

Prepare samples to concentrate material for subsequent staining or microscopy

4

Prepare pure cultures for microbiological work and aseptic applications

4.1

Select culture media to maximise growth of microorganisms and cells

4.2

Inoculate media aseptically, applying techniques suitable for purpose of culture

4.3

Incubate inoculated media in conditions to optimise growth of organisms and cells

4.4

Subculture on suitable media to optimise production of pure cultures

5

Perform procedures that can assist in the identification of microorganisms

5.1

Select staining techniques to demonstrate required cellular characteristics

5.2

Stain prepared films to demonstrate diagnostically useful characteristics

5.3

Inoculate and incubate media with pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms

5.4

Perform tests on pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms

5.5

Perform antibiotic sensitivity testing, if required

6

Estimate the number and/or size of micro-organisms in samples

6.1

Count cells in undiluted samples to indicate the dilution necessary to reliably count organisms in culture

6.2

Prepare serial dilutions of samples aseptically for culture and colony counting

6.3

Count colonies for calculating number of viable organisms per unit volume

6.4

Count microorganisms in samples and cultures using spectrometric and electronic methodologies, where relevant

6.5

Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures, where relevant

7

Maintain records of laboratory work

7.1

Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required

7.2

Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checklists

7.3

Maintain security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records

This field allows for different work environments and conditions that may affect performance. Essential operating conditions that may be present (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) are included.

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements

Standards, codes, procedures and/or workplace requirements include the latest version of one or more of:

Australian and international standards, guidelines and codes covering laboratory safety; competence of testing and calibration laboratories; occupational protective equipment; labelling of workplace substances; storage, handling and transport of dangerous goods; environmental management; physical containment levels and facility types; and safety cabinets

national work health and safety (WHS) standards and codes of practice, and national measurement regulations and guidelines

specific codes, guidelines and methods covering microbiological procedures, and small scale genetic manipulation work in accordance with gene technology regulations

workplace documents, such as SOPs; quality procedures; equipment manuals; calibration and maintenance schedules; material safety data sheets (MSDS) and safety procedures; laboratory schedules; workplace recording and reporting procedures; waste minimisation, containment and safe disposal procedures; cleaning, hygiene and personal hygiene requirements

instructions to comply with new legislation, standards, guidelines and codes

sampling procedures (labelling, preparation, storage, transport and disposal)

test procedures (validated and authorised)

schematics, work flows and laboratory layouts

Communication

Communication includes interactions with one or more of:

supervisors and managers (laboratory, quality and customer service)

personnel in other laboratories in the workplace or in other workplaces to which work may be referred

customers, patients and clients

external auditors and accreditation agencies (e.g. National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA))

Safe work practices

Safe work practices include, but are not limited to, one or more of:

ensuring access to service shut-off points

recognising and observing hazard warnings and safety signs

labelling of samples, reagents, aliquoted samples and hazardous materials

handling and storage of hazardous materials and equipment in accordance with labelling, MSDS and manufacturer instructions

identifying and reporting operating problems or equipment malfunctions

cleaning and decontaminating equipment and work areas regularly using workplace procedures

using personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, coveralls and gowns

using containment facilities (e.g. PCII, PCIII and PCIV physical containment laboratories), containment equipment (e.g. biohazard containers, laminar flow cabinets, Class I, II and III biohazard cabinets) and containment procedures

WHS and environmental management requirements

WHS and environmental management requirements include:

applying standard precautions relating to the potential infectivity of samples and materials presented for laboratory processing

complying with WHS and environmental management requirements at all times, which may be imposed through state/territory or federal legislation. These requirements must not be compromised at any time

applying standard precautions relating to the potentially hazardous nature of samples

accessing and applying current industry understanding of infection control issued by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) and State and Territory Departments of Health, where relevant

Copy and paste from the following performance criteria to create an observation checklist for each task. When you have finished writing your assessment tool every one of these must have been addressed, preferably several times in a variety of contexts. To ensure this occurs download the assessment matrix for the unit; enter each assessment task as a column header and place check marks against each performance criteria that task addresses.

Observation Checklist

Tasks to be observed according to workplace/college/TAFE policy and procedures, relevant legislation and Codes of Practice Yes No Comments/feedback
Check samples and request form details before they are accepted 
Return samples and request forms that do not comply with requirements to source with reasons for non-acceptance 
Log samples, recording details that allow accurate tracking and chain of custody 
Distribute samples for local testing or dispatch samples to other testing facilities 
Store samples appropriately where testing or transport is to be delayed 
Select work area and equipment required for the safe handling of materials that may contain microorganisms of specified risk groups 
Wear protective apparel, replacing it when contamination is suspected 
Apply correct disinfection procedures to work areas before and after use 
Locate relevant emergency equipment for timely response to microbiological accidents 
Apply standard precautions when handling biological materials 
Minimise the production and release of aerosols, using biological safety cabinets where necessary 
Clean spills, and report all spills and suspected incidents to supervisor 
Wash hands before and after laboratory work and when contamination is suspected 
Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures 
Prepare thin smears of samples for subsequent staining to enable microscopic identification of cells 
Prepare liquid films of specimens for direct observation for motility or cell structure 
Prepare samples to concentrate material for subsequent staining or microscopy 
Select culture media to maximise growth of microorganisms and cells 
Inoculate media aseptically, applying techniques suitable for purpose of culture 
Incubate inoculated media in conditions to optimise growth of organisms and cells 
Subculture on suitable media to optimise production of pure cultures 
Select staining techniques to demonstrate required cellular characteristics 
Stain prepared films to demonstrate diagnostically useful characteristics 
Inoculate and incubate media with pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms 
Perform tests on pure cultures to assist in the biochemical and immunological identification of microorganisms 
Perform antibiotic sensitivity testing, if required 
Count cells in undiluted samples to indicate the dilution necessary to reliably count organisms in culture 
Prepare serial dilutions of samples aseptically for culture and colony counting 
Count colonies for calculating number of viable organisms per unit volume 
Count microorganisms in samples and cultures using spectrometric and electronic methodologies, where relevant 
Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures, where relevant 
Make entries on report forms or into computer systems, accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required 
Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checklists 
Maintain security and confidentiality of all clinical information, laboratory data and records 

Forms

Assessment Cover Sheet

MSL975001 - Perform microbiological tests
Assessment task 1: [title]

Student name:

Student ID:

I declare that the assessment tasks submitted for this unit are my own work.

Student signature:

Result: Competent Not yet competent

Feedback to student

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Assessment Record Sheet

MSL975001 - Perform microbiological tests

Student name:

Student ID:

Assessment task 1: [title] Result: Competent Not yet competent

(add lines for each task)

Feedback to student:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overall assessment result: Competent Not yet competent

Assessor name:

Signature:

Date:

Student signature:

Date: