Unit of competency
Modification History
Release 1. Supersedes and equivalent to MSL904002 Perform standard calibrations. Minor changes to Performance Criteria and Knowledge Evidence. Performance Evidence changed for improved flexibility and use across multiple industry sectors.
Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge to calibrate test and measurement equipment in accordance with standard calibration procedures and documented test methods. These procedures/methods specify all associated reference standards, materials, equipment and methods to be used and the required parameters or quantities and ranges to be tested, including the criteria for rejection or approval.
This unit applies to laboratory and calibration technicians who carry out tests and/or calibrations using standard calibration methods in first, second and third-party laboratories, and generate calibration reports. Personnel are not permitted to deviate from explicit instructions in any manner, modify the procedure, nor substitute alternative equipment. They work under limited supervision and results of their work are interpreted and checked by the laboratory supervisor, quality inspector or designated signatory.
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.
Pre-requisite Unit
Nil.
Competency Field
Calibration
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements |
Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare items for calibration |
1.1 Select the appropriate calibration procedure for the test in accordance with workplace procedures 1.2 Identify hazards and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), safety equipment and procedures 1.3 Confirm all measuring equipment complies with laboratory’s specification requirements and calibration procedure 1.4 Prepare reference standards and equipment for testing 1.5 Verify performance of reference standards and measuring equipment before use and quarantine out-of-calibration items in accordance with workplace procedures 1.6 Identify and minimise potential sources of measurement error |
2. Perform calibration |
2.1 Perform individual tests without variance in accordance with the documented procedure to ensure repeatability of measurement 2.2 Confirm readings are the result of a valid measurement and record data (as-found or before adjustment) 2.3 Adjust device under test to bring readings within specification of calibration and record data (as-left or after adjustment) 2.4 Analyse test data for trends or inconsistencies that would significantly affect the accuracy or validity of test results 2.5 Repeat calibration if measurement has been compromised 2.6 Seek appropriate advice when interpretation of results is outside authorised scope of approval |
3. Document results |
3.1 Estimate and document uncertainty of measurement in accordance with workplace procedures 3.2 Document compliance or non-compliance with test requirements and/or specifications 3.3 Record the results of each test or calibration accurately, unambiguously and objectively 3.4 Ensure confidentiality of workplace information in accordance with workplace procedures |
4. Finalise calibration |
4.1 Prepare and issue a final report detailing testing carried out, traceability, statement of compliance and relevant information 4.2 Report any non-compliance and verify next course of action 4.3 Attach calibration labels, equipment stickers, quality control tags and tamper-resistant seals in accordance with workplace procedures 4.4 Store test equipment, measurement standards and results in accordance with workplace procedures |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential to performance.
- Numeracy skills to:
- perform calculations to give results in appropriate accuracy, precision and units
- use statistical analysis (means, ranges and standard deviations) and estimation of uncertainty of measurement.
Other foundation skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit.
Unit Mapping Information
Supersedes and is equivalent to MSL904002 Perform standard calibrations.
Links
MSL Laboratory Operations Companion Volume Implementation Guide is available from VETNet - - https://vetnet.gov.au/Pages/TrainingDocs.aspx?q=5c63a03b-4a6b-4ae5-9560-1e3c5f462baa