Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect a wide range of reliable scientific data and samples for fisheries and/or environmental management. It includes the ability to identify sampling plans, assemble equipment, conduct measurements and observations, collect, store and preserve samples, and collect and report data.
The unit applies to observers who collect scientific data and samples related to fisheries and/or environmental management.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety, biosecurity and environmental regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for measurements and sampling | 1.1 Confirm and explain purpose of collection to relevant personnel 1.2 Identify relevant sampling plans, procedures, materials and equipment 1.3 Confirm required measurements, observations, samples and sampling frequencies 1.4 Assemble, check and calibrate all measuring and sampling equipment before use |
2. Conduct measurements and observations | 2.1 Perform required sequence of measurements and observations according to sampling plan 2.2 Operate equipment according to manufacturer instructions and health and safety requirements 2.3 Record measurements and estimations with the appropriate units, required precision and accuracy 2.4 Recognise atypical or out-of-specification data and record explanatory notes 2.5 Identify and rectify procedures or equipment problems that have led to atypical data 2.6 Clean and store measuring equipment and dispose of any wastes according to environmental requirements |
3. Obtain samples | 3.1 Collect samples ensuring that sample types and sampling conditions are according to the sampling plan 3.2 Place, preserve and store samples in labelled containers to maintain security, integrity and traceability 3.3 Recognise and record atypical observations made during sampling 3.4 Clean and store sampling tools and dispose of any wastes according to environmental requirements |
4. Report on data and samples | 4.1 Provide feedback to relevant personnel at key stages of the data collection and sampling processes 4.2 Validate measurements, observations and samples for relevance and quality promptly after collection 4.3 Complete documentation of data and samples promptly, check for completeness and quality, and duplicate as required 4.4 Prepare reports on sampling and data outcomes in the required format 4.5 Arrange transportation and storage of samples 4.6 Respect confidentiality of data collected from individual sources |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Numeracy | Prepares and measures samples according to sampling plans, and conducts basic measurements, calculations and estimations to reflect fishing operations and environmental impacts |
Reading | Interprets sampling plans, procedures, scientific data and sampling information |
Interact with others | Selects and uses appropriate vocabulary, conventions and protocols, including technical language, to communicate and engage with crew members |
Sectors
Fisheries Observer (OBS)