Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 12:12 PM AWST

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Receive and prepare samples for testing

Receive and prepare samples for testing

Unit of competency
National Code
MSL953001
State Code
AWO34
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
This unit of competency covers the ability to log samples, check sample documentation, and schedule and prepare samples for testing in accordance with workplace procedures. This unit does not include testing, tissue processing or similar techniques.This unit of competency is applicable to field and laboratory assistants in all industry sectors who receive and prepare samples as part/all of their job in a sample reception area.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 Log samples
  • 1.1 Record date (and time of arrival, if required) of samples at workplace
  • 1.2 Check and match samples with request forms before they are accepted
  • 1.3 Enter samples into the laboratory information management system (LIMS)
  • 1.4 Apply required document tracking procedures
  • 1.5 Process 'urgent' test requests according to workplace requirements
  • 1.6 Ensure security and traceability of all information, laboratory data and records
2 Address client and customer service issues
  • 2.1 Report to referring client when samples and request forms do not comply with workplace requirements
  • 2.2 Refer to supervisor for instruction where 'return to source' is inappropriate or not possible
  • 2.3 Maintain confidentiality of all client/workplace data and information
  • 2.4 Ensure that information provided to customers is accurate, relevant and authorised for release
  • 2.5 Deal with customers politely and efficiently and in accordance with workplace procedures
3 Prepare samples for testing
  • 3.1 Perform physical separation of the samples, as required
  • 3.2 Prepare the required number of sub-samples
  • 3.3 Perform chemical separation of the samples, as required
  • 3.4 Place samples in appropriate transport media, if appropriate
  • 3.5 Monitor and control sample conditions before, during and after processing
4 Distribute samples
  • 4.1 Group samples requiring similar testing requirements
  • 4.2 Distribute samples to workstations maintaining sample integrity
  • 4.3 Distribute request forms for data entry or filing in accordance with workplace procedures
  • 4.4 Check that samples and relevant request forms have been received by laboratory personnel
5 Maintain a safe work area and environment
  • 5.1 Apply safe work practices to ensure personal safety and that of other laboratory personnel
  • 5.2 Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure personal safety when sampling, processing, transferring or disposing of samples
  • 5.3 Report all accidents and spillages to supervisor
  • 5.4 Clean up splashes and spillages immediately using appropriate techniques and precautions
  • 5.5 Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts
  • 5.6 Ensure the safe disposal of hazardous materials and other laboratory wastes
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
WA694 MSL953001A Receive and prepare samples for testing Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
OAC60 MSL953003 Receive and prepare samples for testing Unit of competency