This unit of competency covers the ability to record and store data, perform simple calculations of scientific quantities and present information in tables and graphs. The unit of competency requires personnel to solve predictable problems using clear information or known solutions. Where alternatives exist, they are limited or apparent.

This unit of competency is applicable to production operators, field assistants and laboratory assistants working in all industry sectors.

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.

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

accurately coding, checking, recording and storing data in the required format

performing simple calculations involving scientific quantities, with or without a calculator or computer software. The following must be performed:

decimals, fractions, ratios, proportions and percentages

unit conversion, multiples and submultiples

use of significant figures, rounding off, estimation and approximation

substitution of data in formulae

conversions between SI units

performing at least five (5) of the following calculations:

perimeters

angles

areas (m2) and volumes (mL, L, m3) of regular shapes (e.g. packaging and moulds)

average mass, mass %, density, specific gravity, moisture, relative and absolute humidity

ratios, such as mass to mass, mass to volume and volume to volume percentages

industry specific ratios, such as g/cm2 , kg/m2

concentration (e.g. g/100mL, mg/L, mg/L)

dilution

statistical values, such as mean, median, mode and standard deviation

average count, colonies per swab surface and cell counts (live and dead/total)

process variables, such as pressure, velocity and flow rates

% content of moisture, ash, fat, protein, alcohol, sulphur dioxide and trace metals, such as calcium or zinc

food properties, such as % concentration (dry), friability, bitterness, brix, free amino nitrogen, diastatic power, calorific content and yeast viability

preparing and interpreting straightforward tables, graphs and charts of data

recognising obvious features and trends in data, including:

maximum and minimum values

spread of data

increasing/decreasing data, rate of change

outliers, data beyond control limits or normal range

presenting accurate results in the required format

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

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:

concepts of metrology, including:

that all measurements are estimates

repeated measurements belong to a sample of the measured parameter

repeatability, precision, accuracy and significant figures

the international system of units (SI)

scientific and technical terminology relevant to job role

procedures for coding, entering, storing, retrieving and communicating data

procedures for verifying data and rectifying mistakes

procedures for maintaining and filing records, and security of data

work health and safety (WHS) and environment requirements.

Judgement 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, and assessment evidence must be relevant to the particular workplace context. 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 either case).

This unit may be assessed with technical units, such as:

MSL973001 Perform basic tests

MSL973002 Prepare working solutions

MSL973007 Perform microscopic examination

Holistic assessment methods include:

review of data worksheets, calculations, graphs and tables prepared by the candidate

review of records transcribed, maintained or stored by the candidate

feedback from supervisors and peers

observation of the candidate as they record data and perform calculations

questions to assess understanding of relevant procedures and trends in data.

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

data sets and records

computer and relevant software or laboratory information system

relevant workplace procedures.

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.

This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.

Foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.

Data