Modification History
New unit
Unit Descriptor
This unit of competency covers the ability to perform complex laboratory testing of samples that may be used as forensic evidence. Competency includes the ability to establish client needs for routine and non-routine forensic samples, select suitable techniques and methods and modify them if required, obtain valid and reliable data, and report test results. Personnel are required to recognise atypical test data/results, troubleshoot common analytical procedure and equipment problems and ensure all testing and reporting meets judicial requirements.
Application of the Unit
This unit of competency is applicable to technical officers working in all industry sectors and government agency laboratories, for example, in food, forensic, medical and environmental laboratories. The term forensic is used to describe tests which may have legal implications, for example, testing to verify claims for insurance companies.
Complex forensic laboratory tests are non-routine and may require the development of new or modified methods. They require a high degree of analytical skill and knowledge, or practical experience required to perform the analysis and interpret the results. Complex forensic tests include all forms of comparative, evaluative, analytical and optical (visual) methods and techniques. They can be performed on specialised analytical instruments and include tests such as DNA profiling, gunshot residue analysis using scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), identification of accelerant residue samples from arson attacks using gas chromatography mass spectroscopy (GC-MS), and explosive residue analysis.
All operations and analytical methods must comply with relevant standards, appropriate procedures and/or enterprise requirements. Although a supervisor may not always be present, the technical officer will follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) that clearly describe the scope of permitted practice including modifying enterprise/test procedures and communicating results to people outside the laboratory.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Not applicable.
Pre-Requisites
Not applicable.
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements describe the essential outcomes of a unit of competency. |
Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised text is used, further information is detailed in the required skills and knowledge section and the range statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the evidence guide. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
1 |
Establish client needs and schedule analysis |
1.1 |
Obtain evidential material/samples following accepted chain of custody procedures |
1.2 |
Record sample description, compare with specification and record and report discrepancies |
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1.3 |
Evaluate samples and select appropriate laboratory procedure from accepted standard forensic techniques and validated scientific methods |
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1.4 |
Identify the possible need to modify enterprise techniques or methods, for example, to ensure recovery of sample materials |
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1.5 |
Seek advice from supervisor about any proposed variations and document all approved changes according to enterprise quality system and judicial requirements |
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1.6 |
Schedule analysis using enterprise procedures |
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2 |
Prepare samples and standards |
2.1 |
Obtain a representative analytical portion of the sample |
2.2 |
Prepare sample in accordance with testing requirements |
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2.3 |
Prepare validation checks and/or calibration standards for analytical portions |
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3 |
Perform analysis |
3.1 |
Perform laboratory examination in accordance with validated technique or method on standards, validation checks and samples |
3.2 |
Conduct sufficient testing to obtain reliable data |
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3.3 |
Perform tests according to enterprise requirements for timeframe and cost |
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3.4 |
Troubleshoot technique or method problems which have led to atypical data or results |
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4 |
Process and analyse data |
4.1 |
Confirm data is the result of valid measurements |
4.2 |
Perform any required calculations and ensure results are consistent with standards or estimations and expectations |
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4.3 |
Record results with the appropriate accuracy, precision, uncertainty and units |
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4.4 |
Draw conclusions from examination of results according to accepted forensic practices and documented requirements |
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4.5 |
Review laboratory methodology and test results |
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5 |
Maintain a safe work environment |
5.1 |
Identify risks, hazards, safety equipment and control measures associated with sample handling, preparation and analytical method |
5.2 |
Use personal protective equipment and safety procedures specified for test method and materials to be tested |
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5.3 |
Minimise the generation of wastes and environmental impacts |
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5.4 |
Ensure the safe disposal of laboratory wastes |
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5.5 |
Clean, care for and store equipment and consumables in accordance with enterprise procedures |
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6 |
Maintain laboratory records and report results |
6.1 |
Enter approved data and results into laboratory information management system (LIMS) according to enterprise quality system and judicial requirements |
6.2 |
Maintain equipment logs in accordance with enterprise procedures |
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6.3 |
Maintain security, integrity and traceability of samples and documentation |
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6.4 |
Prepare reports for presentation of evidence and communicate results to appropriate personnel |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the skills and knowledge required for this unit. |
Required skills include:
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Required knowledge includes:
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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. |
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Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
Assessors should ensure that candidates can:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
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Method of assessment |
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Range Statement
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included. |
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Codes of practice |
Where reference is made to industry codes of practice, and/or Australian/international standards, it is expected that the latest version be used |
Standards, codes, procedures and/or enterprise requirements |
Standards, codes, procedures and/or enterprise requirements may include:
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Complex testing on forensic samples |
Complex testing may include techniques and methods such as:
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Validation checks and/or calibration standards |
Validation checks and/or calibration standards may include:
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Reviewing laboratory methodology and test results |
Reviewing laboratory methodology and test results may include:
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Hazards |
Hazards may include:
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Hazard control measures |
Hazard control measures may include:
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WHS and environmental management requirements |
WHS and environmental management requirements:
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Unit Sector(s)
Not applicable.
Custom Content Section
Not applicable.