Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1

Receive microbiological samples

1.1

Check samples and accompanying documentation in accordance with workplace procedures.

1.2

Log samples and record sufficient details to enable accurate tracking and chain of custody.

1.3

Distribute samples for local testing or dispatch samples to other testing facilities, as necessary.

1.4

Store samples appropriately where testing or transport is to be delayed.

2

Prepare for safe microbiological work and aseptic applications

2.1

Select work area and equipment required for the safe handling of materials that may contain microorganisms of specified risk groups.

2.2

Wear protective clothing, replacing it when contamination is suspected.

2.3

Apply correct disinfection procedures to work areas before and after use.

2.4

Locate relevant emergency equipment for timely response to microbiological accidents.

2.5

Apply standard precautions when handling biological materials.

2.6

Minimise the production and release of aerosols, using biological safety cabinets, where necessary.

2.7

Clean up spills, and report all spills and suspected incidents to supervisor.

2.8

Wash hands before and after laboratory work and when contamination is suspected.

2.9

Ensure the safe collection and disposal of biohazardous materials and other laboratory wastes in accordance with workplace procedures.

3

Process samples for direct examination

3.1

Prepare thin smears of samples for subsequent staining to enable microscopic identification of cells.

3.2

Prepare liquid films of specimens for direct observation of cell structure.

3.3

Prepare samples to concentrate material for subsequent staining or microscopy.

4

Prepare pure cultures for microbiological work and aseptic applications

4.1

Select culture media to maximise growth of microorganisms and cells.

4.2

Inoculate media aseptically, applying techniques suitable for purpose of culture.

4.3

Incubate inoculated media in conditions to optimise growth of organisms and cells.

4.4

Subculture on suitable media to optimise production of pure cultures.

5

Perform environmental microbiological analyses

5.1

Identify major microorganisms and groups of microorganisms in air, water and soil samples.

5.2

Count cells in undiluted samples to indicate the dilution necessary to reliably count organisms in culture.

5.3

Prepare serial dilutions of samples aseptically for culture and colony counting.

5.4

Count colonies for calculating number of viable organisms per unit volume.

5.5

Count microorganisms in samples and cultures using spectrometric and electronic methodologies, where relevant.

5.6

Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures, where relevant.

5.7

Use rapid detection techniques to monitor the presence of microorganisms in water.

5.8

Use indicator organisms to estimate the likely presence of other pathogenic species.

6

Examine test data for legislative compliance

6.1

Confirm data are the result of valid measurements.

6.2

Report details of sampling/testing procedures and quality assurance in accordance with legislative requirements.

6.3

Report data in the required format with the appropriate accuracy, precision, statistic type and units.

6.4

Compare data with specified assessment criteria.

6.5

Comment on any significant data trends and identify the possible causes or implications.

6.6

Identify atypical or out-of-range results and the risk and/or instances of potential/actual non-compliance.

6.7

Confirm all unexpected findings with supervisor.

7

Maintain records

7.1

Enter approved data and results into workplace information management system.

7.2

Maintain instrument logs as required by accreditation checklists.

7.3

Maintain security and confidentiality of all client information, data, test results and records.