This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to recognise and interpret different types of biological test samples to direct the specimen to the correct laboratory for appropriate testing. It covers knowledge of anatomy to interpret histology samples and knowledge of physiology to interpret pathology samples.This unit applies to laboratory technicians who work in histology, microbiology, haematology and biochemistry. The unit principally refers to human pathology but many aspects are relevant to veterinary pathology. This unit of competency assumes that the laboratory technician would perform tests and procedures under the close supervision of scientific and/or medical staff. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technician will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that clearly describe the scope of permitted practice in modifying testing procedures, interpretation of data and for communicating test results to people outside the laboratory.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.