Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
23/07/2026 1:01 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Perform chemical tests and procedures

Perform chemical tests and procedures

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL974003
State Code
AWO09
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
60
Description
This unit of competency covers the ability to interpret chemical test requirements, prepare samples, conduct pre-use and calibration checks on equipment and perform routine chemical tests/procedures. These tests will involve several measurement steps. The unit includes data processing and interpretation of results and tracking of obvious test malfunctions where the procedure is standardised. However, personnel are not required to analyse data, optimise tests/procedures for specific samples or troubleshoot equipment problems where the solution is not apparent.This unit of competency is applicable to laboratory or technical assistants and instrument operators in all 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 test requirements
  • 1.1 Review test request to identify samples to be tested, test method and equipment and instruments involved
  • 1.2 Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with the sample, preparation and test methods, reagents and/or equipment
  • 1.3 Plan work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple samples
2 Receive and prepare 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 and standards in accordance with chemical testing requirements
  • 2.4 Ensure traceability of samples from receipt to reporting of results
3 Check equipment before use
  • 3.1 Set up equipment and instruments in accordance with test method requirements
  • 3.2 Perform pre-use and safety checks in accordance with relevant workplace and operating procedures
  • 3.3 Identify faulty or unsafe components and equipment and report to appropriate personnel
  • 3.4 Check equipment calibration using specified standards and procedures
  • 3.5 Quarantine out-of-calibration equipment and instruments
  • 3.6 Ensure reagents required for the test are available and meet quality requirements
4 Test samples to determine chemical species or properties
  • 4.1 Operate equipment and instruments in accordance with test method requirements
  • 4.2 Perform tests or procedures on all samples and standards in accordance with specified methods
  • 4.3 Shut down equipment and instruments in accordance with operating procedures
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 wastes and environmental impacts
  • 6.3 Ensure the safe collection of laboratory and hazardous waste for subsequent disposal
  • 6.4 Care for and store equipment and reagents as required
7 Maintain laboratory records
  • 7.1 Enter approved data into laboratory information management system (LIMS)
  • 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
WA719 MSL974003A Perform chemical tests and procedures Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAC78 MSL974019 Perform chemical tests and procedures Unit of competency