This unit applies to the process of collecting and preserving biological samples and is likely to be under limited supervision from others with checking only related to overall progress. It requires knowledge of industry biological sampling and preserving guidelines and protocols, flora and fauna, environmental legislation, and sampling and preserving methods.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Plan for collection

1.1. Sampling schedule is read/heard and confirmed with manager.

1.2. Sampling site location is confirmed and approval obtained for site access following enterprise and legislative guidelines.

1.3. Samples to be collected and preserved are identified by supervisory staff.

1.4. Equipment requirements for biological sampling and preserving are determined and arranged.

1.5. Range of likely operating conditions, hazards and difficult/sensitive environments are assessed for impact on sampling and testing.

2. Prepare equipment and resources

2.1. Equipment required for sampling and preserving is sourced according to sampling procedures.

2.2. Equipment is checked for availability and serviceability in accordance with enterprise procedures.

2.3. Data or record sheets/books are collected for use.

2.4. Equipment, data sheets and personnel are moved to sampling sites without injury or damage and readied for use.

3. Carry out biological sampling and preserving procedures

3.1. Samples are collected in accordance with sampling plan and enterprise procedures and industry protocols/guidelines.

3.2. Samples are preserved and recorded in accordance with sampling standards and guidelines.

3.3. Samples for external analysis are prepared, packaged and sent to laboratory in accordance with sampling schedule and laboratory standards.

3.4. Specific and general observations including information on relevant ambient and antecedent environmental conditions are made in accordance with monitoring schedule.

3.5. Equipment operation and work practices conform to occupational health and safety requirements.

3.6. Collection outcomes including presentation of samples are reported and delivered in accordance to enterprise guidelines.

4. Complete collection of biological sampling activities

4.1. Equipment and clothing is cleaned, sanitised, repaired and stored in accordance with enterprise procedures.

4.2. Damaged or malfunctioning equipment is repaired on site sampling results and observations are accurately recorded on data sheets and forwarded in accordance with enterprise procedures.

4.3. Changes in field conditions and equipment are conveyed to supervisor according to enterprise procedures.

Required skills

plan for collection

prepare equipment and resources

carry out biological sampling and preserving procedures

complete collection of biological sampling activities

use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks

use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required

use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures

use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

hydrological cycle

field procedures for biological sampling and preservation

collecting equipment and methods

preservation equipment and processes

basic habitat assessment

water quality issues.

fauna and flora recognition relevant to sampling activities

relevant environmental legislation.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

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

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

establish the sampling purpose and requirements

prepare equipment and facilities to take biological samples

carry out biological sampling

preserve and record samples and forward for testing if required

record sampling data and observations

report outcomes of collection.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Types of samples may include:

collecting and preserving biological samples of macro invertebrates, aquatic vegetation, intertidal organisms, soil and water

equipment used to collect and preserve biological specimens.

Unit sector

Natural area restoration

This unit contains employability skills.