Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:57 AM AWST

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Collect and preserve biological samples

Collect and preserve biological samples

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCNAR302A
State Code
D7060
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
10/06/2011
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
13/10/2014
Field of Education
019909 - Laboratory Technology
Original Release Date
13/10/2014
Nominal Hours
35
Description
This unit covers the process of collecting and preserving biological samples as part of a monitoring program and defines required to: establish the equipment and facilities to take biological samples; carry out biological sampling; preserve and record samples and forward for testing if required; record sampling data and observations; report outcomes of collection.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Plan for collection
  • 1.1. Sampling schedule is read/heard and confirmed with manager.
  • 1.2. Sampling site location is confirmed and approval obtained for site access following enterprise and legislative guidelines.
  • 1.3. Samples to be collected and preserved are identified by supervisory staff.
  • 1.4. Equipment requirements for biological sampling and preserving are determined and arranged.
  • 1.5. Range of likely operating conditions, hazards and difficult/sensitive environments are assessed for impact on sampling and testing.
2. Prepare equipment and resources
  • 2.1. Equipment required for sampling and preserving is sourced according to sampling procedures.
  • 2.2. Equipment is checked for availability and serviceability in accordance with enterprise procedures.
  • 2.3. Data or record sheets/books are collected for use.
  • 2.4. Equipment, data sheets and personnel are moved to sampling sites without injury or damage and readied for use.
3. Carry out biological sampling and preserving procedures
  • 3.1. Samples are collected in accordance with sampling plan and enterprise procedures and industry protocols/guidelines.
  • 3.2. Samples are preserved and recorded in accordance with sampling standards and guidelines.
  • 3.3. Samples for external analysis are prepared, packaged and sent to laboratory in accordance with sampling schedule and laboratory standards.
  • 3.4. Specific and general observations including information on relevant ambient and antecedent environmental conditions are made in accordance with monitoring schedule.
  • 3.5. Equipment operation and work practices conform to occupational health and safety requirements.
  • 3.6. Collection outcomes including presentation of samples are reported and delivered in accordance to enterprise guidelines.
4. Complete collection of biological sampling activities
  • 4.1. Equipment and clothing is cleaned, sanitised, repaired and stored in accordance with enterprise procedures.
  • 4.2. Damaged or malfunctioning equipment is repaired on site sampling results and observations are accurately recorded on data sheets and forwarded in accordance with enterprise procedures.
  • 4.3. Changes in field conditions and equipment are conveyed to supervisor according to enterprise procedures.
RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.
Types of samples may include:
collecting and preserving biological samples of macro invertebrates, aquatic vegetation, intertidal organisms, soil and water
equipment used to collect and preserve biological specimens.
EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:
establish the sampling purpose and requirements
prepare equipment and facilities to take biological samples
carry out biological sampling
preserve and record samples and forward for testing if required
record sampling data and observations
report outcomes of collection.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
S2622 RTD3509A Collect and preserve biological samples Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
BAM14 AHCNAR302 Collect and preserve biological samples Unit of competency