Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:15 PM AWST

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Perform food tests

Perform food tests

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL974020
State Code
OAC11
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
20/07/2018
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
29/11/2018
Field of Education
019909 - Laboratory Technology
Original Release Date
29/11/2018
Nominal Hours
60
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to interpret food test requirements, prepare samples, conduct pre-use and calibration checks on equipment, and perform routine testing of raw food materials, in-process materials and final products. These tests will involve several measurement steps. The unit includes data processing and some 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 applies to laboratory or technical assistants and instrument operators working in the food and beverage processing industry sectors.No licensing or certification requirements exist at the time of publication. However, regulations and/or external accreditation requirements for laboratory operations exist, so local requirements should be checked. Relevant legislation, industry standards and codes of practice within Australia must also be applied.
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/instruments involved
  • 1.2 Identify hazards and workplace controls associated with the sample, preparation/test methods, reagents and/or equipment
  • 1.3 Plan parallel work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple sets of samples
2 Receive and prepare food 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 food testing requirements
3 Check equipment before use
  • 3.1 Set up equipment/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 Check equipment calibration using specified standards and procedures
  • 3.4 Inspect reagents required for quality issues including visual checks and expiry
4 Test samples to determine food components and characteristics
  • 4.1 Operate equipment/instruments in accordance with test method requirements
  • 4.2 Perform tests/procedures on all samples and standards in accordance with specified methods
  • 4.3 Shut down equipment/instruments in accordance with operating procedures
5 Process 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 reference standards and expectations
  • 5.4 Record and report results in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 5.5 Determine if basic 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 Make entries on report forms or into a laboratory information management system accurately calculating, recording or transcribing data as required
  • 7.2 Ensure traceability of sample from receipt to reporting of results
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
AWO08 MSL974004 Perform food tests Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OEY02 MSL974033 Perform food tests Unit of competency