Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 4:46 PM AWST

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Prepare mineral samples for analysis

Prepare mineral samples for analysis

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL954002
State Code
AWO30
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
40
Description
The unit of competency covers the ability to reduce given mineral samples to representative client samples and analytical portions that meet client requirements for analysis. Personnel are also required to recognise problems and invalid preparation steps and take appropriate corrective actions.This unit of competency is applicable to technical assistants working in the mineral assay and construction materials testing sectors.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 Interpret and schedule client requirements
  • 1.1 Review client request to identify sample/analysis requirements, preparation methods and equipment involved
  • 1.2 Inspect samples, compare with specifications, record and report any discrepancies
  • 1.3 Liaise with client when samples and/or request forms do not comply with workplace procedures
  • 1.4 Identify hazards, safety equipment and safe work procedures specified for the sample, preparation methods, reagents and equipment
  • 1.5 Plan parallel work sequences to optimise throughput of multiple sets of samples
  • 1.6 Assemble all required equipment materials, reagents and check they are fit for purpose
2 Prepare client samples for analysis
  • 2.1 Estimate safe times for the preparation of required sample portions
  • 2.2 Split samples to obtain representative sub-samples as required
  • 2.3 Safely operate comminution equipment
  • 2.4 Monitor texture of the samples as an indicator of particle size and adjust milling times accordingly
  • 2.5 Monitor sample compaction and build up of residues on equipment and rectify as necessary
  • 2.6 Record preparation difficulties that may impact on quality or cause additional client costs
  • 2.7 Report any departure from preparation methods or client specifications
  • 2.8 Label client samples and record chain of custody information
  • 2.9 Store all client samples in accordance with workplace procedures
3 Use non-destructive methods to prepare laboratory portions for analysis
  • 3.1 Examine the recommended preparation method to identify critical steps that will affect the quality of analytical results
  • 3.2 Closely follow each preparation step with particular attention to safety, precision and minimisation of cross-contamination of samples
  • 3.3 Monitor parameters that indicate completion or failure of each preparation step
  • 3.4 Analyse and record invalid preparation steps and take corrective action before repeating the procedure
  • 3.5 Present laboratory portions for analysis in appropriate containers with all required chain of custody documentation
4 Maintain a safe work environment
  • 4.1 Apply established safe work practices and use personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
  • 4.2 Minimise the generation of waste and environmental impacts
  • 4.3 Ensure the safe disposal of all hazardous waste and spent/surplus samples
  • 4.4 Clean, care for and store equipment and reagents as required
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WA697 MSL954002A Prepare mineral samples for analysis Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAB97 MSL954005 Prepare mineral samples for analysis Unit of competency