Storing and Communicating Scientific Information in a Workplace
Laboratory
D.P7: Explain how scientific information in a workplace laboratory is recorded
and processed to meet the needs of the customer and to ensure traceability.
D.P8: Explain how useful scientific information is obtained from large data sets
and the potential issues and benefits.
Work in the laboratory is utilised to promote the accentuation of an individual’s
knowledge of science, as well as their inquiry into scientific dealings. The laboratory has
played a pivotal point in the development and understanding of methodical procedures,
along with technological and medical advances.
It is essential for any workplace environment to keep detailed records of proceedings and
data that has been collated. This can aid in the managing of costs, and it will provide
accountability in the transactions that have taken place.
For instance, if a laboratory notices they are low on supplies or need new equipment,
they shall put out an order for it. Once the products/equipment that have been ordered
are delivered to the laboratory, it shall be received by the respective individuals, and
booked immediately, with its origin of the product recorded. This can be noted down on a
book, or written into a computer database. The equipment is categorised by its unique
sample identification number. This number is utilised to identify and differentiate a
substance or an object from others. This number cannot be repeated more than once,
ensuring its traceability.
In relation to the records of analysis (e.g. the concentration/volume of the chemical
substance), it can be stored in a computer program, such as Microsoft Excel. This
program enables one to swiftly calculate the minimum and maximum value, sum, and
mean of an assortment of items. Additionally, one can construct graphs and charts from
this online medium. It aids in keeping track of the increase or decrease in equipment.
A password can be added to the Excel, so it can be properly protected. For traceability,
only those with the proper clearance level can access it. If it done on paper, it is to be
kept in a lockable file cabinet. There can be an addition of a routine change of the
password, so if a member of staff were to quit or leave the job, security would not be
compromised.
There is a common process of filling out a certification of analysis, which is utilised to
vindicate that the products have meet the mandatory criteria. This can be done via paper
or electronically.
The college or any institution provides the laboratory with a firewall as extra security. It
monitors and filtrates online traffic, and inevitably averts hacks targeted towards the
laboratory.
In accordance to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health legislation of 2002, also
known as COSSH, technicians must label the hazards a chemical substance entails,
whether it is a toxin or an irritant. Complying with this document, managers and higher-
ups do everything in their capacity to avert injuries.
With all this done, anyone in the laboratory, as well as outside customer can easily
access and use the equipment they want, as well their whereabouts, quantity and
information of the apparatus is made known.
1|Page
, Template Layout of Certificate
of Analysis
For a laboratory to function effectively, there is an established hierarchy. The structure of
this hierarchy depends on various factors, such as:
a. The amount of individuals in the environment.
b. The programs that take place in the workplace environment.
c. The location of the members of staff (difference in job sites).
d. The shifts individuals work (day or night).
An Organisational Chart
Illustrating the Hierarchy in a
Workplace.2 | P a g e
