Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:34 AM AWST

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Authorise the issue of test results

Authorise the issue of test results

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL935003
State Code
AWO46
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
50
Description
This unit of competency covers the ability to critically assess the accuracy of data and validity of test results prior to formally authorising their release to the client. It involves the statistical analysis of data and information generated during calibration, sampling and testing to determine whether quality and/or process parameters have been achieved. Personnel are required to investigate and, if necessary, rectify results that are not consistent with expected values.This unit of competency is applicable to laboratory personnel working in all industry sectors who are approved by their organisation to authorise the results obtained for specific test methods. In many instances these personnel are known as 'signatories' or 'delegates' for the tests involved. The scope of tests authorised in each case will be determined by the specialised knowledge, technical competence and experience of the personnel involved.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 Verify the accuracy of data and technical records
  • 1.1 Access relevant job instructions, data and technical records in laboratory information management system (LIMS)
  • 1.2 Confirm that technical records provide sufficient information to ensure traceability for the tests involved
  • 1.3 Compare data with expected values and identify any outliers
  • 1.4 Inspect data records to check the integrity of data entry, alterations, transfers and calculations
  • 1.5 Correct and initial any incorrect data records
  • 1.6 Sign off data records as correct
2 Determine if results are acceptable and within expectation
  • 2.1 Compare results with expected values and identify any significant differences
  • 2.2 Check the reliability of results by examining data, statistical analysis of data and results from repeat tests or duplicate samples
  • 2.3 Assess the significance of any documented observations of atypical test conditions or environment and/or sample appearance
  • 2.4 Check that all calculations are free from error
  • 2.5 Check that estimates of uncertainty are reasonable and consistent with the test method, client and/or product specification requirements
  • 2.6 Authorise the issue of results that meet the organisation's quality standards and are consistent with expectations
3 Investigate unexpected or unacceptable results
  • 3.1 Examine records of pre-use checks and calibration performance to ensure that the equipment and/or instruments used meet test specifications and workplace requirements
  • 3.2 Establish whether human and/or environmental factors could have affected the reliability of results
  • 3.3 Check for obvious sources of interferences that may have occurred during measurements
  • 3.4 Retrieve stored samples (if available) and assess whether they are atypical or contaminated
  • 3.5 Perform control tests using the same, or new, samples to check unexpected results
  • 3.6 Authorise the issue of unexpected results that meet the organisation's quality standards
  • 3.7 Identify possible root causes of unacceptable results and appropriate preventative/corrective actions
  • 3.8 Report investigation outcomes and recommendations for improvements in accordance with workplace procedures
4 Liaise with clients about results
  • 4.1 Establish whether sampling procedures used by the client could contribute to unexpected/unacceptable results
  • 4.2 Arrange for new samples and/or re-testing as necessary
  • 4.3 Explain investigation outcomes and confidence level for unexpected test results
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WA684 MSL935003A Authorise the issue of test results Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAC27 MSL935005 Authorise the issue of test results Unit of competency