Application

This unit of competency covers the ability to prepare samples and perform tests and measurements using standard methods with access to readily available advice from supervisors.
This unit of competency is applicable to laboratory/field assistants working in all industry sectors. In general, they do not calibrate equipment and make only limited adjustments to the controls. They do not interpret or analyse results or troubleshoot equipment problems.
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.

What You'll Learn

Assessment Requirements

Performance Evidence

Evidence of competence in this unit must satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria, and include demonstration of:
• accurately interpreting workplace procedures and standard methods
• preparing samples using at least three (3) different processes
• performing at least five (5) basic tests or measurements using standard methods and procedures
• checking test equipment before use
• completing all tests within the required timeline without sacrificing safety, accuracy or quality
• demonstrating close attention to the accuracy and precision of measurements and the data obtained
• calculating simple quantities using appropriate equations, units, uncertainties and precision
• recording and presenting results accurately and legibly
• maintaining the security, integrity and traceability of all samples, data/results and documentation
• following procedures for working safely and minimising environmental impacts.

Knowledge Evidence

Must provide evidence that demonstrates knowledge of:
• concepts of metrology, including:
• all measurements are estimates
• measurements belong to a population of measurements of the measured parameters
• precision, accuracy and significant figures
• sources of error, uncertainty and repeatability
• traceability
• international system of units (SI)
• purpose of tests performed as part of job role and principles of the standard methods/specifications used
• function of key components of the test equipment, pre-use equipment and safety checks
• sources of uncertainty in measurement and methods for control
• workplace and/or legal traceability requirements
• interpretation and recording of test result, including simple calculations
• procedures for recognising and reporting of unexpected or unusual results
• relevant hazards, work health safety (WHS) and environment requirements.

Assessment Conditions

• 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. 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 each case).
• This unit of competency may be assessed with:
• MSL922001 Record and present data
• Holistic assessment methods include:
• review of the quality of test data/results achieved by the candidate over time
• inspection of records and workplace documentation completed by the candidate
• observation of the candidate performing a range of basic tests
• feedback from peers and supervisors
• oral or written questioning to check required knowledge of basic test procedures.
• Access is required to instruments, equipment, materials, workplace documentation, procedures and specifications associated with this unit, including, but not limited to:
• a standard laboratory equipped with basic test equipment, common measuring instruments, materials, standard methods, workplace procedures, MSDS and equipment manuals.
• 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.

Foundation Skills

• {'skill': 'Foundation Skills', 'description': 'This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.\nFoundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.'}

Related Units

• MSL974003 — Perform chemical tests and procedures
  Same training package