Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:59 PM 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 environmental biological techniques

Perform environmental biological techniques

Unit of competency
National Code
MSS024010
State Code
BAK86
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
22/06/2016
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
08/08/2016
Field of Education
010911 - Microbiology
Original Release Date
08/08/2016
Nominal Hours
100
Description
This unit of competency covers the ability 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 of competency is applicable to environmental technicians working in a range of industry sectors, such as environmental services (e.g. sampling and monitoring of air quality, water and soil); clean water (e.g. catchments, supply and environmental flows); water treatment, storm and wastewater management; and natural resource management.While no specific licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication, environmental monitoring and management activities are governed by relevant legislation, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements. Local requirements should be checked.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 Obtain biological samples
  • 1.1 Locate and review background information for site/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/or equipment.
  • 1.4 Assemble required materials, reagents and equipment and check they are fit for purpose.
  • 1.5 Collect samples in accordance with relevant 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 Perform basic biological techniques associated with the examination of microorganisms
  • 2.1 Use aseptic techniques to prepare media for microbiological analysis.
  • 2.2 Obtain samples aseptically for microbiological analysis.
  • 2.3 Identify possible 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 appropriate 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/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 Ensure safety and minimise cross-contamination through the use of personal protective clothing and safety equipment.
  • 7.2 Handle all samples and equipment in accordance with workplace safety procedures.
  • 7.3 Clean up spills using appropriate 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
D7764 MSS024010A Perform environmental biological techniques Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAF88 MSS024022 Perform environmental biological techniques Unit of competency