Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 11:06 PM AWST

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Perform environmental biological techniques

Perform environmental biological techniques

Unit of competency
National Code
MSS024022
State Code
OAF88
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
22/10/2018
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
19/02/2019
Field of Education
010911 - Microbiology
Original Release Date
19/02/2019
Nominal Hours
100
Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge to collect and examine biological samples using microscopes, keys and biochemical tests to identify and enumerate environmentally significant organisms. Personnel are expected to prepare aseptic media and solutions, set up equipment for microbiological testing and identify basic microorganisms of environmental significance.This unit applies to environmental technicians working in a range of industry sectors, including environmental services; clean water; water treatment, storm and wastewater management; and natural resource management.No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must be applied.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Obtain biological samples
  • 1.1 Locate and read background information for site or project
  • 1.2 Review work request to identify required samples and the procedures, materials and equipment involved
  • 1.3 Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with collecting the sample, preparation methods, reagents and equipment
  • 1.4 Assemble required materials, reagents and equipment and check they are fit for purpose
  • 1.5 Collect samples in accordance with legislative requirements, codes of practice and workplace procedures
  • 1.6 Log samples using workplace procedures
  • 1.7 Record sample description, compare with specification and note and report discrepancies
  • 1.8 Ensure traceability from receipt of sample to reporting of results
2 Prepare samples and grow cultures
  • 2.1 Use aseptic techniques to prepare media for microbiological analysis
  • 2.2 Obtain samples for microbiological analysis
  • 2.3 Identify contamination pathways for both samples and media
  • 2.4 Perform simple chemical tests to identify morphology of environmentally significant bacteria
  • 2.5 Use aseptic techniques to manipulate samples and bacterial cultures
  • 2.6 Use standard techniques to grow cultures of environmentally significant microorganisms
  • 2.7 Use disinfection and sterilisation to control the growth of microorganisms
3 Prepare microscope for use
  • 3.1 Select microscope and attachments for examination and measurements
  • 3.2 Check that all microscope components are clean and fit for purpose
  • 3.3 Mount sample in accordance with specified method
  • 3.4 Adjust settings and alignment of optical and mechanical components to optimise performance
4 Perform microscopic examination in accordance with test methods
  • 4.1 Identify microorganisms, cell structures and components of animal and plant tissues in environmental samples
  • 4.2 Measure organisms and structures
  • 4.3 Enumerate microorganisms in environmental samples
5 Classify organisms
  • 5.1 Classify organisms into hierarchical structures using appropriate keys
  • 5.2 Record all observations and measurements used to determine classifications
6 Relate cell structures and their functions to environmental adaptation
  • 6.1 Identify cell structures from examination of biological specimens
  • 6.2 Associate biological functions with cell structures
  • 6.3 Associate cell physiology and enzyme cycles to environmental adaptation
  • 6.4 Identify important biochemical pathways associated with environmentally significant organisms
7 Maintain a safe work environment
  • 7.1 Use personal protective clothing and safety equipment to ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination
  • 7.2 Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety procedures
  • 7.3 Clean up spills using techniques to protect personnel, work area and environment
  • 7.4 Minimise generation of waste and environmental impacts
  • 7.5 Collect and dispose of all wastes safely
  • 7.6 Report hazards and incidents to designated personnel using workplace procedures
8 Maintain workplace records
  • 8.1 Record approved data into workplace system
  • 8.2 Maintain confidentiality and security of workplace information and data
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BAK86 MSS024010 Perform environmental biological techniques Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OES81 MSS024033 Identify environmentally significant organisms Unit of competency