Unit of competency details

Unit descriptor 

This unit covers the process of collecting samples as part of a rural production or horticulture monitoring program or while conducting post-mortem examination of livestock or other animals and defines the standard required to: plan to collect samples and move equipment to the site; collect and preserve samples for a given site according to prescribed enterprise procedures, standards and principles; collecting schedules and industry best practice; record sampling results and observations accurately on data sheets.

Application of the unit 

This unit applies to collecting samples for a rural production or horticulture monitoring program. Samples collected will usually be analysed by laboratory staff, although collection staff may undertake some tests.

Prerequisite units 

Employability skills 

This unit contains employability skills.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Plan for collection of samples

1.1. Purpose and scope of sample collection activity is confirmed from discussion with supervisor or work instructions.

1.2. Sample collection schedule is read/heard and confirmed with supervisor.

1.3. Sampling site location is confirmed and, where required, approval obtained for site access following enterprise guidelines.

1.4. Samples to be collected and preserved are identified in conjunction with supervisor or by reference to enterprise guidelines.

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 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. Hazardous materials are packaged and transported in accordance with legislative requirements.

3.5. Observations including information on the surrounding area and environmental conditions are made in accordance with monitoring schedule.

3.6. Equipment operation and work practices conform to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements.

3.7. Collection outcomes including presentation of samples are reported and delivered in accordance to enterprise guidelines.

4. Complete sample collection 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 or sent to manufacturer or specialist.

4.3. Sampling results and observations are accurately recorded on data sheets and forwarded in accordance with enterprise procedures.

4.4. Changes in field conditions and equipment are conveyed to supervisor according to enterprise procedures.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE 

This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit.

Required skills 

• understand and carry out instructions
• distinguish atypical circumstances
• prepare samples
• package samples for transport to laboratory.
• use and operate relevant tools and equipment
• use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, follow sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legible information collected and select and apply procedures for a range of tasks
• use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation, including questioning techniques, active listening, clarifying information and consulting with supervisors as required
• use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine workplace measures
• use interpersonal skills to work with and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge 

• hydrological cycle
• field procedures for sampling and preservation
• collecting equipment and methods
• preservation equipment and processes
• basic habitat assessment
• water quality issues
• fauna and flora recognition relevant to sampling activities
• relevant legislation.
• topographical, climatic and/or environmental influence on material or sampling procedure.

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:

• plan to collect samples and move equipment to the site
• collect and preserve samples for a given site according to prescribed enterprise procedures, standards and principles, collecting schedules and industry best practice
• record sampling results and observations accurately on data sheets.

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.

RANGE STATEMENT 

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Sample collection may include:

• animal tissue or fluids
• plants
• moulds
• pests
• water
• soil
• manures
• artificial growth media
• fertilisers
• hydroponic solutions
• effluent
• emissions.

Unit sector 

Work

Co-requisite units 

Competency field