Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 8:42 PM AWST

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Identify environmentally significant organisms

Identify environmentally significant organisms

Unit of competency
National Code
MSS024033
State Code
OES81
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
16/12/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
03/05/2023
Field of Education
010911 - Microbiology
Original Release Date
03/05/2023
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. This unit applies to environmental technicians and similar roles who are required to prepare aseptic media and solutions, set up equipment for microbiological testing, classify organisms and apply safety and infection control protocols. This unit applies in a range of industry sectors, including but not limited to environmental services; clean water; water treatment, storm and wastewater management; and natural resource managementNo 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 site or project information to determine background and context of work
  • 1.2 Review work request to identify required samples and procedures, materials and equipment to be used
  • 1.3 Identify hazards and workplace control measures associated with collecting samples, 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 any discrepancies
  • 1.8 Apply traceability protocols 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 Prepare samples for microbiological analysis according to procedures
  • 2.3 Identify contamination pathways for both samples and media and apply relevant controls
  • 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 to meet work request
  • 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 biological samples
  • 4.2 Measure organisms and structures
  • 4.3 Enumerate microorganisms in biological samples
5. Classify organisms
  • 5.1 Select and use dichotomous key to classify organisms into hierarchical structures
  • 5.2 Record all observations and measurements used to determine classifications according to workplace procedures
6. Determine environmental significance of organisms
  • 6.1 Identify cell structures of organisms
  • 6.2 Associate biological functions with cell structures
  • 6.3 Associate cell physiology and enzyme cycles to environmental adaptation relevant to site or project
  • 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 waste 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
OAF88 MSS024022 Perform environmental biological techniques Unit of competency