Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to test the analytical purity of seed in a working sample to infer the composition of a seed lot. It applies to seed analysts working within enterprise requirements and procedures.
It applies to individuals who take responsibility for their own work and for the quality of the work of others. They use discretion and judgement in the selection, allocation and use of available resources. All work is carried out to comply with workplace procedures.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for a purity test | 1.1 Identify samples, test methods and equipment to perform the test 1.2 Clean and calibrate equipment and working spaces 1.3 Prepare a working sample using mixing and dividing processes 1.4 Check and record sample details on worksheets and sample packets |
2. Assess working samples | 2.1 Separate the working sample into its component parts using appropriate equipment 2.2 Separate pure seed using visual characteristics, mechanical or pressure aids appropriate to the type of seed 2.3 Handle seeds carefully so as not impair their capacity for germination 2.4 Weigh separated component parts and matter to the number of decimal places required by enterprise guidelines 2.5 Identify contaminant seeds |
3. Process and interpret data | 3.1 Add and compare weights of all components’ parts with original working sample weight 3.2 Undertake a retest if required 3.3 Refer to a supervisor seeds that cannot be identified 3.4 Calculate the percentage weight of various component parts to one decimal place 3.5 Add percentages of all fractions together and round to 100% 3.6 Report results of test |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
prepare a working sample
report percentages of component parts
round off calculations to enterprise requirements
separate a working sample into component parts
test the analytical purity of seed to infer the composition of a seed lot
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
enterprise and/or legal traceability requirements
enterprise standard operating procedures (SOPs)
materials and apparatus used in seed purity tests
relevant work health, safety and environment requirements
seed biology
seed identification
the role of the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the ISTA Rules for Seed Testing
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Seed testing (SDT)