competence assessment

Competence assessment evaluates whether a person can perform assigned laboratory activities correctly and safely under the required conditions. It goes beyond attending training or signing a procedure. Relevant evidence may include direct observation, review of work records, interpretation exercises, examination of suitable samples, and discussion of troubleshooting or unusual situations. The combination should fit the task and associated patient risk.

Define the activities being assessed, acceptance criteria, assessor suitability, and the authorization decision that follows. Include critical tasks such as result review, maintenance, specimen acceptance, and critical-result communication where applicable. Plan reassessment and additional evaluation after significant changes or performance concerns. If gaps are found, record support, supervision, retraining, restrictions, and the evidence required before independent work is permitted again.

For accreditation, competence records demonstrate that authorization rests on observed ability rather than job title or years of service alone. Assessors may compare the authorization matrix with actual duties and staffing arrangements. Keep evidence specific enough to show what was evaluated, by whom, when, and with what outcome, including any limitations placed on the person's work.