Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 5:59 PM AWST

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Perform biological procedures

Perform biological procedures

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL974006
State Code
AWO06
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
01/03/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
16/08/2016
Field of Education
019909 - Laboratory Technology
Original Release Date
16/08/2016
Nominal Hours
120
Description
This unit of competency covers the ability to interpret work requirements, prepare samples, conduct pre-use and calibration checks on equipment, and perform routine biological procedures. These procedures may involve several steps and are used to classify cell types, species and biologically active compounds by analysing their biological and chemical characteristics. This unit includes data processing, interpretation of results and troubleshooting obvious departures from standard procedures.This unit of competency is applicable to technical assistants working in the biomedical, environmental, biotechnology and education 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.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Interpret and schedule work requirements
  • 1.1 Review work request to identify samples, required procedures and materials/equipment/instruments involved
  • 1.2 Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with the sample, preparation methods, reagents and/or equipment
  • 1.3 Plan parallel work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple sets of samples
2 Receive and prepare biological samples
  • 2.1 Log samples using standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • 2.2 Record sample description, compare with specification and note and report discrepancies
  • 2.3 Prepare samples in accordance with testing requirements
  • 2.4 Ensure traceability of sample from receipt to reporting of results
3 Perform techniques that assist in the classification of a cell or species
  • 3.1 Select suitable techniques in accordance with workplace requirements and methods
  • 3.2 Set up and use equipment and reagents in accordance with the method
  • 3.3 Perform techniques in accordance with the method
4 Perform techniques that analyse biological activity
  • 4.1 Select suitable techniques in accordance with workplace requirements and methods
  • 4.2 Set up and use equipment and reagents in accordance with the method
  • 4.3 Perform techniques in accordance with the method
5 Process and interpret data
  • 5.1 Record test data noting atypical observations
  • 5.2 Construct calibration graphs and compute results for all samples from these graphs
  • 5.3 Ensure calculated values are consistent with expectations
  • 5.4 Record and report results in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 5.5 Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 5.6 Interpret trends in data and/or results and report out-of-specification or atypical results promptly to appropriate personnel
  • 5.7 Determine if obvious procedure or equipment problems have led to atypical data or results
6 Maintain a safe work environment
  • 6.1 Use established safe work practices and personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
  • 6.2 Minimise the generation of waste
  • 6.3 Ensure the safe disposal of biohazardous wastes
  • 6.4 Clean, care for and store equipment and reagents as required
7 Maintain laboratory records
  • 7.1 Record approved data into workplace system
  • 7.2 Maintain confidentiality and security of workplace information and laboratory data
  • 7.3 Maintain equipment and calibration logs in accordance with workplace procedures
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WA722 MSL974006A Perform biological procedures Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAC39 MSL974021 Perform biological procedures Unit of competency