Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to log samples, check sample documentation, and schedule and prepare samples for testing in accordance with workplace procedures. This unit does not include testing, tissue processing or similar techniques.
This unit of competency applies to field and laboratory assistants in all industry sectors who receive and prepare samples as part/all of their job in a sample reception area.
No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. | ||
1 | Log samples | 1.1 | Record date (and time of arrival, if required) of samples at workplace |
1.2 | Check and match samples with request forms before they are accepted | ||
1.3 | Enter details of samples into the laboratory information management system (LIMS) | ||
1.4 | Apply required document tracking procedures | ||
1.5 | Process 'urgent' test requests according to workplace requirements | ||
1.6 | Ensure security and traceability of all information, laboratory data and records | ||
2 | Address client and customer service issues | 2.1 | Report to referring client/supervisor when samples and request forms do not comply with workplace requirements |
2.2 | Maintain confidentiality of all client/workplace data and information | ||
2.3 | Ensure that information provided to customers is accurate, relevant and authorised for release | ||
2.4 | Deal with customers politely and efficiently and in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
3 | Prepare samples for testing | 3.1 | Perform physical separation of the samples, as required |
3.2 | Prepare the required number of sub-samples | ||
3.3 | Perform chemical separation of the samples, as required | ||
3.4 | Place samples in appropriate transport media, as required | ||
3.5 | Monitor and control sample conditions before, during and after processing | ||
4 | Distribute samples | 4.1 | Group samples requiring similar testing requirements |
4.2 | Distribute samples to workstations maintaining sample integrity | ||
4.3 | Distribute request forms for data entry or filing in accordance with workplace procedures | ||
4.4 | Check that samples and relevant request forms have been received by laboratory personnel | ||
5 | Maintain a safe work area and environment | 5.1 | Apply safe work practices to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel |
5.2 | Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety when sampling, processing, transferring or disposing of samples | ||
5.3 | Report all accidents and spillages to supervisor | ||
5.4 | Clean up splashes and spillages immediately using appropriate techniques and precautions | ||
5.5 | Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts | ||
5.6 | Ensure the safe disposal of hazardous materials and other laboratory wastes | ||
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
Writing skills to accurately label samples.
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Competency Field
Sampling