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Competency Guidelines for Public Health Laboratory Professionals: CDC and the Association of Public Health Laboratories

Prepared by

Renée Ned-Sykes, PhD1

Catherine Johnson, MA2

John C. Ridderhof, DrPH1

Eva Perlman, MPH2

Anne Pollock3

John M. DeBoy, DrPH2

1Office of Public Health Scientific Services, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia

2Association of Public Health Laboratories, Silver Spring, Maryland

3Office of Public Health Scientific Services, Center for Surveillance, Epidemiology, and Laboratory Services, Division of Laboratory Systems, CDC, Atlanta, Georgia

Corresponding preparer: Renée Ned-Sykes, RNed@cdc.gov, 404-498-0125.

Summary

These competency guidelines outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for public health laboratory (PHL) professionals to deliver the core services of PHLs efficiently and effectively. As part of a 2-year workforce project sponsored in 2012 by CDC and the Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL), competencies for 15 domain areas were developed by experts representing state and local PHLs, clinical laboratories, academic institutions, laboratory professional organizations, CDC, and APHL. The competencies were developed and reviewed by approximately 170 subject matter experts with diverse backgrounds and experiences in laboratory science and public health. The guidelines comprise general, cross-cutting, and specialized domain areas and are divided into four levels of proficiency: beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. The 15 domain areas are 1) Quality Management System, 2) Ethics, 3) Management and Leadership, 4) Communication, 5) Security, 6) Emergency Management and Response, 7) Workforce Training, 8) General Laboratory Practice, 9) Safety, 10) Surveillance, 11) Informatics, 12) Microbiology, 13) Chemistry, 14) Bioinformatics, and 15) Research.

These competency guidelines are targeted to scientists working in PHLs, defined as governmental public health, environmental, and agricultural laboratories that provide analytic biological and/or chemical testing and testing-related services that protect human populations against infectious diseases, foodborne and waterborne diseases, environmental hazards, treatable hereditary disorders, and natural and human-made public health emergencies. The competencies support certain PHL workforce needs such as identifying job responsibilities, assessing individual performance, and providing a guiding framework for producing education and training programs. Although these competencies were developed specifically for the PHL community, this does not preclude their broader application to other professionals in a variety of different work settings.

Introduction

The national network of governmental public health, environmental, and agricultural laboratories, referred to collectively as public health laboratories (PHLs), is a vital part of the U.S. public health infrastructure. These laboratories perform multiple functions through provision of analytic biological and/or chemical testing and testing-related services that protect human populations from infectious diseases, foodborne and waterborne diseases, environmental hazards, treatable hereditary disorders, and other natural and human-made public health emergencies (1–3). A well-trained laboratory workforce is essential to ensuring that PHLs have the capacity to carry out the critical activities that are needed to safeguard the public's health competently and effectively (4,5).

Studies of the PHL workforce have drawn attention to several concerns about staff training and projected turnover, both of which highlight challenges to maintaining a sufficient number of highly skilled and competent workers. A 2011 national PHL workforce characterization survey found that approximately one third of PHL directors nationally expected 16%–25% of their workforce to retire, resign, or be released in the subsequent 5 years, while 12% anticipated losing 26%–50% of their workforce during that time period (6,7). Approximately 30% of the individual scientific staff respondents expected to continue working in a PHL for <5 years (6). These findings largely reflect workforce demographics, because more than half of scientific laboratory staff were aged >45 years (6). Important recruitment and retention challenges for the PHL workforce also have been identified, including the lack of established progressive job series (commonly termed "career ladders" in the PHL community) for PHL scientists (6–8) and the lack of adequate opportunities for training and professional development (6,7). Indeed, approximately 50% of laboratories reported no, minimal, or only partial capacity to provide continuing education and training to their workers (6,7). Lack of adequate training poses challenges because PHL scientists and managers require a range of scientific, leadership, and managerial development courses, ideally based on core competencies, to function effectively in their positions (9–11).

Multiple national professional organizations, including the Institute of Medicine, the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health, and the Public Health Foundation/Council on Linkages Between Academia and Public Health Practice (Council on Linkages), among others, have endorsed competency development as a means of strengthening the public health workforce (12–15). Competencies improve the workforce by providing a guiding framework for producing education and training programs, identifying worker roles and job responsibilities, and assessing individual performance and organizational capacity (12–18).

Competencies are action-oriented statements that delineate the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities that are critical to the effective and efficient performance of work (19); competencies should be observable and measurable. Several public health professional disciplines have developed competencies, often through federal partnerships, to address workforce education and training needs (14,15,19–24), and competency-based curriculum development has been suggested as the ideal method for training public health workers and public health students (10,11,13,18,25). In 2009, CDC and APHL collaborated to develop guidelines for biosafety laboratory competency (26), followed by development of this broader set of guidelines for PHL professional competency.

Purpose

The purpose of these guidelines is to outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities that public health laboratory professionals (principally scientists, managers, and leaders) need to deliver the core services of PHLs efficiently and effectively. These guidelines establish core competencies that can help direct workforce development efforts in PHLs in the United States. Because the competencies are universal in nature for many laboratory disciplines, the guidelines also have potential value for laboratories (including those not characterized as public health laboratories) located in both developed and developing nations.

Background

CDC and APHL have engaged collectively in multiple laboratory workforce improvement efforts over the past several years, providing the foundation for the development of these guidelines. More information about these efforts is available at http://www.aphl.org. The 2011 launch of the Laboratory Efficiencies Initiative (27) was intended to assist PHLs in achieving long-term sustainability and resulted in recommendations from multiple forums to focus greater efforts on PHL workforce development. As part of these efforts, APHL collaborated with CDC in 2012 to develop a comprehensive set of competencies that built on APHL's earlier work to draft competencies for PHL professionals across several topic areas (APHL, unpublished draft, 2011). The scope of that project then was expanded to include a broader range and depth of technical and nontechnical competencies, resulting in the guidelines presented in this report. These guidelines for PHL professionals were developed through the engagement of subject matter experts from APHL, CDC, state and local PHLs, federal environmental and agricultural laboratories, clinical laboratories, and academia to ensure appropriate input and vetting.

Methodology

The PHL competencies were developed over a 2-year period through a consensus process involving 108 subject matter experts participating through a variety of committees, workgroups, and teams (Box). In August 2012, CDC and APHL established an 11-member CDC/APHL Steering Committee* to provide direction, guidance, and oversight to the overall competency development process. A 38-member Project Planning Workgroup comprising CDC, APHL, and PHL representatives encompassing a range of expertise (e.g., PHL leadership, informatics, microbiology, and environmental chemistry) was created through consultation with a nationally recognized expert in competency development and was charged with establishing the competency development process. A 2-day meeting of the Project Planning Workgroup (which included the members of the CDC/APHL Steering Committee) facilitated by AlignOrg Solutions was held in Atlanta, Georgia, in October 2012 to define the project scope and target audience, prioritize expectations of stakeholders, discuss methods and criteria for writing competencies, determine the structure of the competencies, and develop a list of draft competency domains to represent the main subject areas in which PHL professionals operate.

Eleven Domain Teams then were established to develop competencies for 14 draft competency domains; an additional domain focused on ethics was developed later in the process. Most team leads and many members were drawn from the Project Planning Workgroup. Each team lead was responsible for making recommendations regarding team membership to the CDC/APHL Steering Committee and APHL staff, who vetted potential members. Domain Team leads were encouraged to recruit a diverse group based on employer type (government and nongovernment, and federal, state, and local), geographic locale of employment, and years and range of experience (laboratory scientists, managers, and leaders). A total of 90 subject matter experts from CDC, state and local PHLs, APHL, academic laboratories, clinical laboratories, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and others served on the various Domain Teams.

A Development Workgroup created template documents to assist the Domain Teams in constructing their respective competency sets and to ensure uniformity to the process. This Workgroup, which comprised staff from CDC, APHL, PHL, and AlignOrg Solutions, conducted literature reviews and Internet searches to identify related materials, including laboratory association guidelines and reports as well as competency sets for nonlaboratory audiences that had application for PHL functions or specific domain areas (e.g., management, leadership, and workforce training). Although applicable literature was located for eight domain areas (Quality Management System, Management and Leadership, Ethics, Safety, Research, Emergency Management and Response, Workforce Training, and Informatics), limited material was found related to the remaining competency domains. Formal systematic review methods were not used because of the scarcity of available literature, especially regarding laboratory-specific content. In December 2012, the Development Workgroup met to draft a template document for each competency domain, consisting of main competency statements comprising one or more subcompetencies that were further defined by draft responsibility statements at one or more proficiency levels. The Workgroup members used the available literature when applicable but relied principally on their subject matter knowledge and personal work experience as a basis for drafting the template documents.

During January 2013–April 2013, each Domain Team held regular, facilitated conference calls to develop and refine their respective domain competencies, using the template document provided by the Development Workgroup as a starting point. Each team relied on member expertise to arrive at consensus on all competencies, subcompetencies, and proficiency tier statements. The 14 proposed PHL competency domains were mapped against the core functions of PHLs (2,3), the Council on Linkages Core Competencies for Public Health Professionals (14), and the CDC/Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists Applied Epidemiology Competencies (15) to assess congruence with these materials and to identify gaps in the draft PHL competency domains.

In April 2013, a six-person Synthesis Workgroup was established to review and assess the draft domain documents for gaps and overlaps in content and to harmonize language across domains. During May–November 2013, the Workgroup's efforts focused on developing definitions for each domain, continuing to harmonize content and address gaps and overlaps, developing an online survey tool for the competency validation process, and soliciting reviewers to evaluate one or more competency domains.

Validation Process

The CDC/APHL Steering Committee identified the organizations and agencies it wanted to target for involvement in the competency validation process. Following a solicitation for reviewers, APHL staff contacted 139 potential reviewers on the basis of their knowledge and background in one or more particular domain areas. Of these, 75 were invited and agreed to participate in the review phase. Reviewers were drawn from state and local PHLs, CDC, APHL, clinical laboratory organizations, and food-testing laboratories, as well as former PHL directors and other expert consultants. Fifteen reviewers already had been involved in the competency development process in some capacity and offered to review domains that they did not take part in developing. Reviewers were given 45 days during November 2013–January 2014 to assess the validity of the content for the particular domain(s) reviewed and to provide comments and recommendations for improvement through an online survey tool. The reviewers based their responses on their knowledge and experiences in laboratory practice. In December 2013, an Adjudication Process Workgroup of APHL, CDC, and PHL representatives met to design and establish the process for adjudicating reviewer comments, including a method for each Domain Team to document its response to each comment received. At the end of the vetting period, all reviewer comments were collated and reviewed by APHL staff, and a consolidated listing of comments was forwarded for review to the Domain Teams.

The extensive nature of the comments for the General Laboratory Practice and Emergency Management and Response domains prompted the CDC/APHL Steering Committee to create dedicated teams for each of these domains. Several competencies and subcompetencies for the General Laboratory Practice domain had been extracted previously from the Chemistry and Microbiology domains, with additional content developed by a small work team. The new General Laboratory Practice Domain Team included representatives from the Chemistry, Microbiology, Quality Management System, Research, and Communication Domain Teams. Content for the Emergency Management and Response domain had also been developed initially by the Chemistry and Microbiology Domain Teams. In light of the vetting period comments, the Emergency Management and Response domain competencies were rewritten by a dedicated team that included members from APHL's Public Health Preparedness and Response department and the APHL Public Health Preparedness and Response Committee. Similarly, content for the Ethics domain had been extracted from a number of existing domains, and three Domain Team volunteers formed a new team to examine comments received. All Domain Teams held as many conference calls as needed during January–March 2014 to consider and address the vetting period comments.

In April 2014, a Harmonization of Domains Workgroup met to review major changes that the Domain Teams had made to the draft competencies in response to reviewer comments and to address any remaining overlaps in content and inconsistencies in approach and language among the competency domains. The Workgroup also resolved outstanding issues related to vetting period comments that the Domain Teams were unable to address individually in a consensus process. This workgroup comprised nine Domain Team leads, two CDC/APHL Steering Committee members, the APHL project manager, and an invited representative of CDC. Workgroup members then split into small teams and met via teleconference during April–July 2014 to finalize the competency domains.

In total, the competencies were developed and reviewed by approximately 170 professionals with diverse backgrounds and experiences in laboratory science and public health. The final draft of the competency guidelines was reviewed by the CDC/APHL Steering Committee in October 2014. The final competency guidelines were reviewed and approved by CDC in February 2015.

Guiding Principles

Scope

The competency guidelines were developed specifically for scientists working in PHLs. APHL defines PHLs as governmental public health, environmental, and agricultural laboratories that provide analytic biological and/or chemical testing and testing-related services that protect human populations against infectious diseases, foodborne and waterborne diseases, environmental hazards, treatable hereditary disorders, and natural and human-made public health emergencies (http://www.aphl.org/aboutaphl/aboutphls/pages/default.aspx). Although intended primarily for the continuum of scientist positions from laboratory assistant to laboratory director, these competencies can be used by other PHL staff as well. In fact, all staff (including administrative and support staff, custodial staff, and information technology specialists) can apply competencies within the Security, Safety, Emergency Management and Response, and Ethics domains. Any staff members with responsibilities for data entry, records management, client services, supply services, and other nonbench functions would benefit from application of competencies across additional domains depending on their job function and responsibilities.

Although these competencies were developed expressly for the PHL community, this does not preclude their broader application to a variety of other work settings, because many of the skill sets are similar. Scientists, trainers/educators, and leaders and managers in clinical laboratories, veterinary laboratories, academic and private research laboratories, and other laboratories may use these competencies as a basis for further development of their workforce and local/institutional staff. Laboratories using these competencies should be mindful of federal, state, local, and institutional regulations and standards addressing topics such as safety and security when adopting competencies in practice.

Competencies and Skill Domains

These guidelines were developed on the basis of the Dreyfus Model of Skill Acquisition, which states that five progressive stages of development are associated with skill proficiency (18,28). Learners are able to handle additional responsibility and adjust to different and more complex situations as they gain proficiency. For these competency guidelines, the Dreyfus Model was modified in that four proficiency tiers are used: beginner, competent, proficient, and expert. Descriptions of the proficiency tiers are provided (Appendix A).

Competencies were written by using Bloom's taxonomy as a framework; action verbs describing activities that are observable and measurable were used to signify or relate to a hierarchy of learning and actions (29,30). The hierarchy of responsibilities is based on the science for competency development that has been applied across numerous disciplines. Competencies typically are structured as broad statements that define what is expected of and can be demonstrated by the learner; therefore, specific tasks or methods to achieve the competency at a particular proficiency level are not delineated. Each user is responsible for deciding the needed activities, which might vary substantially because of the diversity that exists within and across public health laboratories. Consequently, competency statements do not refer to or include the frequency with which a responsibility is exercised. Nor, with rare exceptions, do they refer to specific guidelines, standards, or regulations, because these might differ by discipline and type of laboratory. The competencies focus on the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform a range of activities in the PHL. The competencies convey the capability for a given behavior or skill, even if the opportunity to perform that skill or behavior is not available (e.g., to serve on national committees or instruct others in policies and processes).

A total of 122 competencies and 519 subcompetencies were identified for the PHL workforce across 15 competency domains: 1) Quality Management System, 2) Ethics, 3) Management and Leadership, 4) Communication, 5) Security, 6) Emergency Management and Response, 7) Workforce Training, 8) General Laboratory Practice, 9) Safety, 10) Surveillance, 11) Informatics, 12) Microbiology, 13) Chemistry, 14) Bioinformatics, and 15) Research (Figure). Full descriptions of these domains and listing of their competencies, subcompetencies, and responsibility statements are presented (Tables 1–15). A number and lettering schema is used to identify domains, competencies, and subcompetencies. Domains are identified by three-letter initials (e.g., QMS), competencies are identified by the domain initials and an overall number (e.g., QMS 1.00), and subcompetencies are further identified through expansion on the competency numbering system (e.g., QMS 1.01 and QMS 1.02).

Three types of domains are included in this competency set: 1) general domains that apply to the responsibilities of all PHL professionals (i.e., Quality Management System, Ethics, Management and Leadership, Communication, Security, Emergency Management and Response, and Workforce Training); 2) cross-cutting technical domains that apply to all laboratory scientists regardless of the scientific discipline in which they work (i.e., General Laboratory Practice, Safety, Surveillance, and Informatics); and 3) specialized domains that are specific to laboratory scientists working in particular scientific disciplines or specialized functional areas (i.e., Chemistry, Microbiology, Bioinformatics, and Research) (Figure). The General Laboratory Practice domain is broadly applicable because it includes general topics pertinent to the laboratory workflow across a wide array of testing areas. Many of these subcompetencies are not duplicated in the specialized domains. Consequently, the General Laboratory Practice domain serves two purposes: to be a companion to each specialized domain and to function as a quasispecialized domain for testing activities not encompassed by the Microbiology or Chemistry domains. Because many topics are relevant to more than one competency domain, the Harmonization of Domains Workgroup decided when to have intentional overlap of particular subcompetencies or topics across domains. For example, the General Laboratory Practice, Research, and Management and Leadership domains include ethics-related competencies although there is a separate Ethics domain.

For all domains, the competencies and proficiency tier statements are context-driven. A given verb is not limited to occurring at only one specific level of proficiency, as the complexity of the described action is determined by the context. In addition, some subcompetencies are similar across domains, in which case users should be mindful of the specific context. For example, sample collection, labeling, and handling are primary functions for both chemistry and microbiology. The subcompetency language for this group of activities is similar in the Chemistry and Microbiology domains, although the specific actions (tasks) needed to achieve each level of proficiency might be different between the testing disciplines.

Each subcompetency outlines a cumulative acquisition of skills, with each successive proficiency tier assuming that a person has acquired the knowledge, skills, or abilities stated in the lower proficiency tier for a given subcompetency. However, the amount of time required for a worker to achieve competency at a particular proficiency tier might be highly variable. In particular, the beginner phase could encompass a very short time frame for some subcompetencies while requiring a longer time for others, depending on the specific action described. Regardless, all beginner tier statements assume that work will be performed under supervision. Furthermore, all statements of the four proficiency tiers are written under the assumption that work will be performed according to standard operating procedures, processes, and policies approved by the administration of the laboratory and in adherence to applicable regulations and accreditation standards and guidelines.

Finally, no recommendation is made that any particular job title or academic degree is required for a particular proficiency tier, nor is the complexity of the knowledge, skills, and abilities for a given proficiency tier the same for all competencies. For example, a PHL scientist could be at the beginner tier for some subcompetencies while being at the competent or proficient tier for others. Similarly, a person might acquire some expert tier competencies early in their career despite not having supervisory or management responsibilities. Many expert competency statements, however, apply to a person occupying a position commensurate with a laboratory director, as significant experience and expertise are required.

Intended Use

These guidelines provide highly structured competencies intended to help ensure a capable, well-trained, and prepared laboratory workforce. The competence of the PHL workforce has a direct impact on the quality of the work output and products required to protect the public's health. Each competency and subcompetency within every domain might not apply to all laboratory staff. The competencies should be tailored and applied to the greatest extent possible to the individual user's situation. Personnel can use the competencies to assess their current skill level and define other areas in need of additional training, with a goal of achieving higher proficiency over time. Laboratory directors and human resources staff might find the guidelines helpful in creating standardized job descriptions, defining progressive job series, recruiting new staff, assessing organizational capacity, and developing performance objectives and appraisals that are aligned with the competencies. Laboratory managers may employ the guidelines as a reference for performance management strategies. The competencies provide a framework for assessing performance and could be used to prepare for certification examinations and for meeting staff qualification requirements specified by governmental laboratory personnel regulations. Finally, educators and training developers may use the guidelines to develop and refine PHL workforce development plans to assess and address training needs through the design of education and training programs.

It is important for users to review the definitions associated with these guidelines (Appendix B). As terms might have different meanings in the context of different laboratory types, the terminology for this project has been standardized to provide more clarity and ease in applying the competencies to practice settings. In situations in which glossary terms contain more than one possible definition, the particular definition applicable to a domain is footnoted for that domain.

Dissemination

CDC and APHL plan to disseminate these guidelines broadly to a variety of stakeholders, including, but not limited to public health laboratories, clinical laboratories, academia, and laboratory scientist professional organizations such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, the Association of Food and Drug Officials, the Association of American Feed Control Officials, the Clinical Laboratory Management Association, and the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, some of which participated in the competency validation process. The competencies will be presented at meetings of public health practitioners and laboratory professionals. The guidelines also will be displayed on APHL's website (http://www.aphl.org).

The next stage of this PHL competency project will focus on the development of tools and resources to aid in guideline implementation. These might include sample competency-based job descriptions and examples of ways professionals can demonstrate competency in a specific area; highlight case study examples of competencies in use; and provide models for developing training and fellowship programs tied to performance metrics and competencies. For example, the Emerging Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program, which is sponsored by APHL and CDC, could use guidance in the toolkit to integrate these competencies into a training program similar to the manner in which the CDC-sponsored Epidemic Intelligence Service program (31) integrated the Applied Epidemiology Competencies (15). Tools and resources to support implementation will also be displayed on APHL's website (http://www.aphl.org) as they are developed.

CDC and APHL also aim to develop a sustainability plan to evaluate the adoption, use, and need for revision of these guidelines periodically. The Council on Linkages (14) and the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (32) provide models for competency and guideline revision that could support this process.

Quality Management System Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Quality Management System (QMS) address the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for developing a laboratory's culture of quality (Table 1). The essential elements integrate operations, services, and infrastructure into a system that meets applicable regulatory standards, professional guidelines, and customer requirements for ensuring and maintaining quality and continually improving laboratory services.

Introduction: QMS is a systematic approach for ensuring the consistent quality of the tests performed, the products created, the data generated, and the results reported. Operating within a quality system meets the needs and requirements of public health laboratories as well as the expectations of partners, stakeholders, and users (internal and external customers). A QMS is more than quality assurance and quality control — it also includes all the business processes of a laboratory that are required to ensure quality. Adhering to quality standards for laboratory operations helps laboratories generate consistent, reliable, and reproducible data and results.

As the first responsibility of the public health laboratory staff is to provide quality testing and services to support the health of the public and meet the many needs of their customers, this demand for quality is superimposed on all aspects of laboratory operations. As such, a quality management system is the foundation for every other activity within this competency set.

Notes: The structure for this domain is based upon the 12 quality system essentials (33). Multiple additional sources were identified as support documents for this domain (34–40). As the foundational domain for these guidelines, all other competencies should be viewed within its context. However, this domain is systems-oriented. Other domains contain quality-related subcompetencies that address "bench-level" quality indicators and activities and not the creation, maintenance, and evaluation of a quality management system as presented here. The verb "oversees" is used extensively in the Expert level. In this context, "oversees" is a broad term that comprises the many functions related to the management of policies, processes, and procedures to include creation, design, development, directing, monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration.

Ethics Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Ethics address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to fulfill basic responsibilities to perform in a collegial and ethical manner within a laboratory setting (Table 2). Ethical professional and scientific behaviors are essential when working in the public health laboratory to help ensure scientific integrity and sustain effective relationships with stakeholders and the public.

Introduction: Ethics are principles or a set of values held by a person or group, i.e., the rules or standards governing the conduct of a person or the conduct of the members of a profession. These principles and rules include characteristics such as personal accountability, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring the accuracy of testing results. These vital but sometimes unspoken values, standards, and resulting professional and scientific codes of conduct are critical to establishing and maintaining a collegial environment in which scientific integrity is held in the highest regard.

To carry out its mission, the public health laboratory must earn and maintain the public's trust. As diligent stewards of that trust and of public funds, all public health laboratory staff should act decisively and ethically in service to the public's health. Laboratory staff should apply ethical principles in all aspects of their work, including respecting their colleagues, customers, and populations they serve. Individual laboratory staff members should apply ethical principles in decision-making to all aspects of their job performance and take responsibility for outcomes associated with their decisions. Ethics must exist at every level in the organization; and it must be championed by every staff person, not just leadership.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (41–45). This domain is intentionally broad and includes examples of general and scientific ethics and practices in the glossary. It is the responsibility of each organization to further identify and detail the professional and scientific values and characteristics important to them. The General Laboratory Practice, Research, and Management and Leadership domains also include ethics-related competencies.

Management and Leadership Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Management and Leadership address the knowledge, skills, and abilities related to managing staff (supervision), the science and practice of achieving results using available resources (management), and the process of influencing the actions of a person or group to attain desired objectives (leadership) (Table 3).

Introduction: Management and leadership are distinct and complementary roles, both of which are necessary for the success of an organization. They can be distinguished in a number of ways (46). Leadership establishes the purpose and strategic direction of the organization. Leading involves innovating, influencing, and motivating. Leadership asks "what" and "why" and mainly works with persons and their interrelationships. Management establishes the systems and processes of the organization. Managing involves administering, planning, organizing, and coordinating. Management asks "how" and "when" and mainly works with systems, processes, mechanisms, models, and structures. Leadership challenges and improves accepted policies and processes and ensures alignment with the mission and vision of the laboratory (i.e., strives to do the right things). Management works within accepted administrative policies and processes to accomplish the mission and vision of the laboratory (i.e., strives to do things right). Effective management and leadership are both critical to accomplishing the core functions of public health laboratories (2,3).

All staff members require a certain degree of management and leadership skills. The scope of work performed by public health laboratories is complex and, therefore, requires staff members who have the crucial leadership and management knowledge and skills to be effective in such an environment. Public health laboratories have a great need to develop these skill sets, as there is a severe and continuing shortage of scientists qualified to assume management and leadership positions. This situation is made more challenging because staff members are rarely provided formal training in these areas through degree, fellowship, or other programs.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (4,10,11,14,15,35,37,46,47), which supports all other domains in these guidelines. This domain is intended for all staff, not just those with managerial or leadership positions or job titles. It is sometimes difficult to separate a skill, behavior, or process as belonging exclusively to either management or leadership. As such, leadership subcompetencies are interwoven throughout the domain and are not limited to those within the Leadership competency (MLD 5.00). Ethics-related competencies are included in this domain that correlate with competencies found in the Ethics domain.

Communication Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Communication address the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to disseminate information in a clear and concise manner appropriate to a given audience (Table 4). Communication might occur in writing, orally, or nonverbally, and it might take place in person or through electronic means.

Introduction: Communication is the application of written, verbal, and nonverbal methods and resources, either in person or through available technologies, to convey information. Although transmission of information is critical, assurance the information is accurate, clear, tailored to the audience, and prepared with linguistic aptitude and cultural sensitivity is equally important.

Effective internal and external communication is necessary for the optimal operation of the public health laboratory. Internal communication between staff is essential to satisfy the organization's goals and quality management system. External communication is necessary to disseminate public health information and to highlight the importance of laboratory contributions in support of public health. Public health laboratories are often called upon to convey the mission, operational features, and test services (the "why," "how," and "what") of their laboratory. These tasks involve engaging traditional and nontraditional partners and are critical to ensuring continued interest and support of the public health laboratory system.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (14,15,48,49). Communication skills are pervasive throughout other domains, including skills such as writing and instructing. Communicating or reporting test orders and results are not covered here but in the General Laboratory Practice, Chemistry, and Microbiology domains.

Security Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Security address the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to ensure a secure, protected working environment that meets or exceeds applicable regulatory requirements and guidelines (Table 5).

Introduction: Security is a compilation of elements that include physical, operational, information, and staff protection with the intent to safeguard personnel and to protect assets and data from unauthorized access, misuse, loss and/or theft. This is accomplished through the implementation of a comprehensive security management system, founded on accepted practices, that ensures that operations are carried out in an environment that is secure and protected at all times. Each person must consistently carry out their responsibilities to ensure the effective application of security practices.

To meet its mission, the public health laboratory must ensure the security of the environment, infrastructure, staff, and of the samples and sensitive information with which it is entrusted. Thus, the knowledge, skills, and abilities included in this domain must be integrated into all technical and nontechnical aspects of staff members' job performances.

Note: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (50–52).

Emergency Management and Response Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Emergency Management and Response address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from laboratory-specific emergency events and situations (Table 6).

Introduction: Emergency Management and Response is a four-phase process involving mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery for emergency events and situations that have a direct impact on laboratory operations and surge testing. This domain recognizes the public health laboratory's mandate to provide emergency response support to external partners. Emergency management and response encompasses events such as natural disasters or public health emergencies, facility or operation failures, in addition to the public health responsibility to detect and respond to real or potential biological, chemical, or radiological threats.

Public health laboratory staff members are responsible for the recognition, response, and management of emergency events and situations directly impacting laboratory operations and surge testing. Staff members provide outreach, training, and communication with the sentinel clinical laboratories, first responders, and other stakeholders as a critical role in jurisdiction-wide emergency management and response.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (21,26,51,53–57). This domain is intended to be used in conjunction with the Safety and Communication domains and is based on the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) mission areas for national preparedness (55). Critical activities in each phase frequently overlap. This domain does not address accidents, spills, or other similar occurrences within the laboratory, which are included in the Safety domain.

Workforce Training Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Workforce Training address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to train public health laboratory professionals (Table 7). This includes the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of all types of training.

Introduction: Workforce Training is a process that uses principles of adult learning and instructional design to develop, manage, deliver, and evaluate internal and outreach education and training activities. Although training services and resources can be accessed externally, management should also support internal activities to ensure staff members possess the skills and knowledge to carry out their responsibilities in all aspects of their job performance. This domain provides guidance to staff members on subject matter expertise and project management for the development and delivery of training.

As persons are an organization's most valuable asset, having well-trained staff members at all functional levels improves organizational performance and ensures the success of the laboratory in providing services to address public health concerns.

Notes: Sources were identified as support documents for this domain (36,58). This domain is intended for the general laboratory scientist and not solely for education or training specialists or subject matter experts. The competencies apply to all types of training modalities.

General Laboratory Practice Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in General Laboratory Practice address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to fulfill basic responsibilities for performing sample analyses within a public health laboratory setting (Table 8).

Introduction: General laboratory practice is the set of foundational knowledge and capabilities needed for the testing of samples across the wide spectrum of scientific and technical activities of public health laboratories. As these practices can be applied in many areas of analysis, they have been consolidated into this domain to minimize, but not eliminate, repetition across the specialized domains and to create a domain that covers testing not specifically encompassed by the Chemistry or Microbiology domains.

These broad practices are central to the performance of laboratory testing. Laboratory scientists, regardless of their specific area of scientific or technical expertise, rely on these skills to accomplish the array of testing in public health laboratories.

Notes: Sources were identified as support documents for this domain (59,60), which is intended for both general and specialized laboratory scientists. This domain is meant to be used in conjunction with specialized domains such as Microbiology, Chemistry, and Research since it includes technical practices not addressed in those domains. The verb "oversees" is used extensively in the Expert level. In this context, "oversees" is a broad term that comprises the many functions related to the management of policies, processes and procedures to include creation, design, development, directing, monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration.

Safety Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Safety address the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to ensure a safe working environment that meets or exceeds applicable regulatory requirements and guidelines (Table 9).

This domain comprises five subdomains:

  • Potential Hazards, which addresses the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to recognize potential hazards within a given laboratory setting;
  • Hazard Control, which addresses the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to support and maintain a health and safety management system to control or prevent workplace hazards;
  • Administrative Controls, which addresses the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to develop a laboratory safety program that is compliant with regulatory, accreditation, and licensing requirements;
  • Communication and Training, which addresses the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to ensure staff members are informed of all safety hazards through effective communication and the provision of related education and training; and
  • Documents and Records, which addresses the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to document activities related to safety policies, processes, and procedures.

Introduction: Safety focuses on the occupational and personal safety of staff members and the environments in which they work. A culture of safety encourages reporting of actual and potential situations which might place staff members and others at risk, openly assesses those risks, and implements redundant systems to keep risk to the absolute minimum. It is essential that leadership and management staff members ensure a comprehensive safety culture for those working in the public health laboratory.

A safety culture is fundamental to ensuring the protection of the laboratory facility, its staff, and the surrounding environment from hazards and risks related to laboratory operations and services. Safety is the background against which all staff members must perform all aspects of their job. A culture of safety recognizes that to err is human, and establishes procedures and processes to minimize errors and avoid harm. To be effective, all staff members are expected to be part of the culture of safety.

This domain is based on the 2011 "Guidelines for Biosafety Laboratory Competency" (26), with the content revised and restructured to fit within this comprehensive set of public health laboratory competencies. This domain supplements and expands upon the 2011 Guidelines. Some reformulation of concepts from the former "Midlevel" and "Senior level" tiers were introduced here to ensure a wider breadth of bench-level and managerial responsibilities. However, the 2011 Biosafety Laboratory Competencies include critical task-level details that could not be captured here due to the directives for competency development that were adopted. The 2011 Guidelines are, therefore, an important companion to this domain.

Note: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (26,51,52,61–74).

Surveillance Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Surveillance address the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the collection and analysis of data to support public health decision making to ensure the health of the community (Table 10). This includes continuous laboratory testing, data compilation, and data dissemination on infectious organisms, chemical analytes, radiological materials, and evidence of hereditary anomalies.

Introduction: Surveillance is the continuous, systematic collection, analysis, and interpretation of health-related data needed for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of public health practice (75). With surveillance, the spread of disease (i.e., any condition that causes injuries, disabilities, disorders, syndromes, infections, or symptoms) is monitored to establish patterns of progression to predict, observe, and minimize the harm caused by the disease. Well-developed surveillance capacity is the foundation on which health departments detect, evaluate, and design effective responses to public health threats. Laboratory information and services are essential to public health surveillance, as the collection, validation, analysis, interpretation, dissemination, and use of laboratory-generated results are crucial to target public health prevention and ensure the health of communities. Public health laboratory scientists and epidemiologists need to work closely to ensure effective population-based disease control and prevention. Effective laboratory reporting to epidemiologists, providers, or other submitters also requires an electronic laboratory reporting (ELR) system that is interoperable with electronic health records and notifiable condition reporting for both care and surveillance.

The public health laboratory plays a unique role in public health surveillance by providing crucial information on the appropriate samples and testing methods, by identifying harmful substances and agents, and by providing the ability to investigate and communicate unusual findings. It is essential for laboratory staff members to understand both their individual role and the laboratory's role in surveillance, testing, reporting, and disease and exposure monitoring.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (15,75–77). Because all public health laboratory testing has a direct or indirect impact on surveillance, this domain is intended for all staff members and not just for persons involved in dedicated surveillance activities.

Informatics Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Informatics address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to systematically apply information science, computer science, and information technology to support public health practice, research, and learning (Table 11).

Introduction: Informatics is a broad field encompassing information science, information technology, algorithms, and social science. In addition to electronic recordkeeping and automated data management, informatics includes such activities as test analyses, clinical decision support, messaging, and knowledge management. Once thought of as a support function, the delivery of laboratory informatics services has now evolved to be a mission-critical and central component of laboratory operations.

Informatics is critically important to the public health laboratory's role in protecting the public from infectious diseases, environmental dangers, and other health threats. Public health laboratory informatics must be cross-cutting and interoperable to support a nationally integrated electronic laboratory reporting (ELR) system and electronic health record (EHR) system. Since all laboratories must rely on informatics capabilities and often have limited access to informaticians or informatics specialists, it is essential that all staff members maintain varying levels of informatics competencies.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (20,78–81). In particular, the competencies defined in this domain are based on the content and framework of a 2013 comprehensive public health laboratory informatics self-assessment tool (78). In turn, this tool was framed on an earlier document (79) outlining consensus on the business requirements of laboratory information management systems. Some of the competencies provided in these guidelines, particularly the Expert level, might appear beyond the reach of the typical bench scientist. While laboratory scientists might initially have competencies limited to the Beginner or Competent level, a long-term goal is to ensure that public health laboratories have within their ranks scientists with competencies at the Proficient and Expert levels. This domain includes paper systems as part of the laboratory information system.

Microbiology Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Microbiology address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to safely and securely detect, identify, and report infectious agents of concern to the public while following the laboratory path of workflow (Table 12).

Introduction: Microbiology is the scientific study of microorganisms and infectious agents as applied to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disease, disability, and death. Microbiology includes the subspecialties of virology, mycology, parasitology, mycobacteriology and bacteriology that are encompassed in the disciplines of clinical, food, and environmental microbiology.

Microbiology is critical to the public health role of detecting and identifying outbreaks, emerging diseases, and biological threats. Public health laboratories serve many public health programs and provide reference and specialized testing that relate to disease control and prevention in the population. The testing services address multiple modes of transmission and include molecular methods for epidemiology and disease surveillance. In addition, public health laboratories provide many specialized tests that are not commercially available.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (26,51,59,61,62,82). This domain is not expected to be all-inclusive of functions performed in every microbiology subspecialty in the laboratory. The General Laboratory Practice and Safety domains are companions to this domain; all are intended to be used together, though some overlap in content exists. The verb "oversees" is used extensively in the Expert level. In this context, "oversees" is a broad term that comprises the many functions related to the management of policies, processes and procedures to include creation, design, development, directing, monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration. There is an assumption for the Beginner level, especially with use of the verbs "performs" and "adheres to," that there is a degree of training and supervision still occurring that is providing needed guidance and information (e.g., on why it is critical to perform steps and processes as directed).

Chemistry Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Chemistry address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of chemicals of concern to the public in biological and environmental matrices (Table 13).

Introduction: Chemistry is the science of detection, measurement, and characterization of chemicals of public health importance in samples (e.g., human and animal, food and feed, water and soil). Chemistry encompasses numerous subdisciplines in areas of both organic and inorganic testing.

Chemistry programs within public health laboratories provide a first line of defense in the rapid recognition of toxic chemical exposures and also support environmental health and epidemiological programs that investigate human exposures to chemicals in the environment. Chemistry programs also provide a wide array of specialized services related to clinical diagnostics for evaluating individual health, identification of environmental health issues, and investigation of population exposures through epidemiological programs' studies. They also aid in the response to chemical emergencies or chemical terrorism events by providing rapid and definitive testing to identify and quantify chemical agents.

Notes: Sources were identified as support documents for this domain (60,83). This domain is not expected to be all-inclusive of all chemistry-related laboratory activities. The General Laboratory Practice and Safety domains are companions to this domain; all are intended to be used together, though some overlap in content exists. The verb "oversees" is used often in the Expert level. In this context, "oversees" is a broad term that comprises the many functions related to the management of policies, processes and procedures to include creation, design, development, directing, monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration. There is an assumption for the Beginner level, especially with use of the verbs "performs" and "adheres to," that there is a degree of training and supervision still occurring that is providing needed guidance and information (e.g., on why it is critical to perform steps and processes as directed).

Bioinformatics Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Bioinformatics address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to collect, classify, and analyze biological and biochemical information through the development and use of computer databases, algorithms, and statistical techniques (Table 14).

Introduction: Bioinformatics is the field of science that bridges the gap between biology, computer science, and information technology by merging them into a single discipline. There are three important subdisciplines within bioinformatics: the development of new algorithms and statistics with which to assess relationships among members of large data sets; the analysis and interpretation of various types of data including nucleotide and amino acid sequences, protein domains, and protein structures; and the development and implementation of tools that enable efficient access and management of different types of information.

Bioinformatics capability and capacity have become progressively more important within public health laboratories because of rapid advances in molecular technologies and laboratory techniques. As a result, the amount of data that a typical laboratory can generate has increased dramatically over the past decade. This increase in data requires new competencies for laboratory scientists to analyze and interpret large datasets, and communicate complex and complete results to audiences of varied backgrounds.

Notes: Sources were identified as support documents for this domain (84,85). This domain is intended for all laboratory scientists in addition to bioinformatics specialists.

Research Competency Guidelines

Purpose statement: The competencies in Research address the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to conduct a systematic, hypothesis-driven investigation that includes research development, testing, and evaluation designed to advance public health knowledge, methods, and/or practice (Table 15).

Introduction: Research is a systematic investigation designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge. It also includes product or method development, assessment, and evaluation. Scientific research provides information to solve new or existing problems, to reaffirm results of previous work, and to support or develop new hypotheses.

Research is critical to the public health enterprise, as communities are continually challenged with new diseases and unknown environmental public health threats. The public health laboratory community is also challenged by changes in virulence or drug susceptibility of pathogens, which impact exposure investigation and response, and the need for advanced diagnostics and analyses to support surveillance.

Notes: Multiple sources were identified as support documents for this domain (41,44,86,87). This domain is intended for use in conjunction with the General Laboratory Practice and Safety domains. The verb "oversees" is used extensively in the Expert level. In this context, "oversees" is a broad term that comprises the many functions related to the management of policies, processes and procedures to include creation, design, development, directing, monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration. This domain does not address areas of assessment and evaluation of laboratory practices, which is included in the Quality Management System and Management and Leadership domains.

Conclusion

These competency guidelines outline the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed by the PHL workforce to fulfill the responsibilities of, and demands on, the PHL system. They were developed with consideration of the diversity and complexity of PHLs. The competencies should serve as a foundation for workforce development efforts to identify and support training standards and performance expectations; develop standardized job descriptions; periodically assess individual staff and organizational capacity; and develop and implement training plans with the competencies as a guide. The competency guidelines might also be used as a framework for developing progressive job series (career ladders) for PHL workers, which has been identified as a significant barrier to worker recruitment and retention (6–8).

CDC and APHL recognize the existence of possible obstacles and challenges that might affect the implementation of these competencies. Although the uses and benefits of implementing the competencies are numerous, their adoption by PHLs might be affected by organizational and resource constraints. Acceptance and adoption of competencies in a workplace require ongoing leadership support for successful assimilation of competencies into human resources processes such as job descriptions or for integration into the curriculum of the laboratory's training and continuing education programs. Because most laboratories' human resource functions are managed by an ancillary department outside the laboratory, a collaborative effort will be needed to weave competencies into the performance management systems and hiring processes. There is also a need to educate laboratory professionals about the value of applying competencies to their daily work and a need for understanding how competencies can be used as a career ladder and management tool. On the basis of experience with the biosafety laboratory competencies published in 2011 (26), it might take several years before competencies are integrated into daily work practices (16). Successful assimilation of these competency guidelines will depend on the resources available to fully adopt and implement them and on the receptivity of laboratory professionals across the spectrum of job positions and titles. Sustained effort in these areas will be critical to strengthening the workforce and its ability to support and manage the national laboratory system.

Acknowledgments

The following persons contributed to this report: Joan Cioffi, PhD, Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response, CDC; subject matter experts from the APHL Workforce Development Committee, other PHL leadership and staff members, CDC, and practitioners from the American Society for Clinical Pathology, the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science, the Association of Food and Drug Officials, the Association of American Feed Control Officials, the Coordinating Council on the Clinical Laboratory Workforce, the Clinical Laboratory Management Association, and the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; Angela J. Beck, PhD, Matthew L. Boulton, MD, University of Michigan Center of Excellence in Public Health Workforce Studies.

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* A list of all of the members of the various committees, teams, and workgroups appears beginning on page 93 of this report.


BOX. Timeline for development of the competency guidelines

August 2012: The CDC/Association of Public Health Laboratories (APHL) Steering Committee for the Public Health Laboratory (PHL) Competencies Project was established.

October 2012: A Project Planning Workgroup comprising CDC, APHL, and PHL representatives met to define the scope and structure of the competencies.

December 2012: The Development Workgroup conducted a review of published literature and resources, including competency sets for non-PHL audiences. Outlines were crafted for use as a template for each domain.

January–April 2013: Eleven Domain Teams developed draft competencies for 14 domains using the expertise of 90 subject matter experts from CDC, APHL, state and local PHLs, academic laboratories, clinical laboratories, the US Department of Agriculture, and other entities. Each Domain Team held regular, facilitated conference calls to develop and refine their competencies.

April–November 2013: A Synthesis Workgroup assessed domain gaps and redundancies and harmonized language across domains.

November 2013–January 2014: The competencies were vetted by volunteer representatives from external organizations and key stakeholders including PHL representatives, clinical laboratory representatives, APHL, and CDC.

December 2013: The Adjudication Process Workgroup, comprising APHL, CDC, and PHL representatives, established the process for the adjudication of reviewer comments by the Domain Teams.

January–March 2014: Domain Teams addressed comments received during the vetting period via conference calls. The Ethics domain was crafted as a separate domain, resulting in 15 total domains.

April 2014: The Harmonization of Domains Workgroup reviewed major changes made by the Domain Teams to the draft competencies in response to reviewer comments and resolved remaining redundancies and inconsistencies in approach and language among the competency domains.

April–July 2014: Small teams from the Harmonization of Domains Workgroup finalized the competency domains.

October 2014: The CDC/APHL Steering Committee reviewed the competency guidelines.

February 2015: CDC reviewed and approved the final guidelines.

FIGURE. Schematic of competency domains for public health laboratory professionals*

This figure is a triangle showing a schematic of competency domains for public health laboratory professionals. Teams of subject matter experts developed general, cross-cutting technical, and specialized competencies, with a quality management system as the foundation of every activity. The base of the triangle comprises general competencies: Quality Management, followed in a separate tier by Ethics, Management and Leadership, Emergency Management and Response, and Workforce Training. The middle section of the triangle comprises cross-cutting technical competences: General Laboratory Practice, Safety, Surveillance, and Informatics. The apex of the triangle comprises specialized competencies: Microbiology, Chemistry, Bioinformatics, and Research.

* Teams of subject matter experts develop general, cross-cutting technical, and specialized competencies, with a quality management system as the foundation of every activity. 

Alternate Text: This figure is a triangle showing a schematic of competency domains for public health laboratory professionals. Teams of subject matter experts developed general, cross-cutting technical, and specialized competencies, with a quality management system as the foundation of every activity. The base of the triangle comprises general competencies: Quality Management, followed in a separate tier by Ethics, Management and Leadership, Emergency Management and Response, and Workforce Training. The middle section of the triangle comprises cross-cutting technical competences: General Laboratory Practice, Safety, Surveillance, and Informatics. The apex of the triangle comprises specialized competencies: Microbiology, Chemistry, Bioinformatics, and Research.


TABLE 1. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 1.00. Organization: ensures that the laboratory's organizational structure is committed to achieving and maintaining quality*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 1.01. Commitment to quality

Describes quality concepts and good professional practice

Demonstrates actions consistent with quality concepts and good professional practice

Sustains laboratory quality management system (QMS)* processes and procedures to ensure good professional practice

Oversees the development of policies,* processes,* and procedures* for review and maintenance of the QMS

QMS 1.02. Organizational structure

Identifies the laboratory's organizational structure that ensures quality

Explains how the laboratory's organizational structure ensures quality

Manages organizational structure to ensure quality

Coordinates organizational structure to ensure the QMS is well-integrated into all levels of laboratory operations

QMS 1.03. Quality culture

Describes the culture, programs, and communication processes regarding quality, safety, and ethical practices*

Adheres to the culture, programs, and communication processes regarding quality, safety, and ethical practices

Advocates for a culture of quality, safety, and ethics

Fosters a culture of quality, safety, and ethics

QMS 1.04. Resources

Identifies resources used to support the QMS

Requests resources to support the QMS

Makes resource allocation decisions to support the QMS

Ensures the ability to respond to unanticipated needs for resources to support the QMS

QMS 1.05. Cost of quality*

Describes how cost effective quality measures can improve laboratory performance

Analyzes quality measures to evaluate the costs of maintaining quality

Develops the procedures to estimate and compare quality costs

Creates an action plan to address the impact of quality costs on regulatory compliance, customer* service, and the operating budget

TABLE 1. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 2.00. Customer focus: ensures that customer needs, expectations, and requirements* are consistently met

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 2.01. Customer satisfaction

Recognizes the laboratory's internal and external customers

Responds to internal and external customer inquiries and feedback

Analyzes feedback and satisfaction data from internal and external customers

Oversees the system for measuring customer and user satisfaction

QMS 2.02. Customer services

Describes the customer services provided by the laboratory to meet customer needs, expectations, and requirements

Adheres to roles and responsibilities in meeting customer needs, expectations, and requirements

Develops procedures to address customer needs, expectations, and requirements

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for providing customer services that meet customer needs, expectations, and requirements

QMS 3.00. Facilities and safety: ensures that the laboratory's physical environment, maintenance, and safety programs* meet applicable requirements

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 3.01. Workplace safety

Participates in required workplace training regarding safety and maintenance of the physical environment

Manages work area to ensure staff compliance with safety requirements

Develops site-specific workplace safety policies and procedures

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to develop, review, and maintain a safety plan that meets requirements

QMS 3.02. Facilities

Describes the laboratory design, escape routes, and workplace accommodations

Monitors environmental controls* for good laboratory practice and testing capabilities

Ensures security and containment of staff, samples,* laboratory supplies, and laboratory equipment*

Directs the process and planning for facility design, modification, and renovation

QMS 3.03. Waste management

Describes waste management policies, processes, and procedures

Applies waste management policies, processes, and procedures to activities

Trains staff on the waste management plan,* including recycling and disposal methods

Ensures the waste management plan follows regulatory requirements

QMS 3.04. Emergency management and response

Explains own role in emergency event mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery

Trains staff in the emergency management plan for emergency event mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery

Provides input on emergency management and response policies, processes, and procedures

Establishes emergency management and response policies, processes, and procedures

QMS 4.00. Personnel: ensures recruitment and retention of a qualified, well-trained, and competent workforce

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 4.01. Staff qualification process

Describes education, training, and skills required for job performance

Describes process required to verify staff qualification and competency

Ensures each position has the required competencies, education, training, skills, experience, and where applicable, certification,* and licensure*

Designs a process to determine required competencies, education, training, skills, experience and where applicable, certification and licensure for each job title

QMS 4.02. Orientation and end-of-employment

Participates in orientation and end-of-employment processes

Ensures orientation and end-of-employment processes are carried out for each staff person

Facilitates orientation and end-of-employment processes

Designs an orientation and end-of-employment program

QMS 4.03. Training

Participates in required training

Ensures that training and evaluation are carried out for assigned duties

Facilitates training and evaluation processes

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the training program

TABLE 1. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 4.00. Personnel: ensures recruitment and retention of a qualified, well-trained, and competent workforce

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 4.04. Competence assessment plan

Describes competence assessment plans

Participates in the development of an individualized competence assessment plan

Evaluates individual competence assessment plans

Oversees a competence assessment plan for the organization

QMS 4.05. Professional development plan

Participates in initial training related to assigned work position

Participates in continuing education and professional development opportunities

Manages the plan to provide professional development opportunities to all levels of staff

Designs a plan to provide professional development opportunities to all levels of staff

QMS 4.06. Performance evaluation process

Participates in the initial performance evaluation process

Participates in the ongoing performance evaluation process

Manages the performance evaluation process

Establishes a process for periodic performance evaluation

QMS 4.07. Recruitment, retention, and succession plans

Describes the recruitment and retention plan

Participates in recruitment and retention planning

Manages the recruitment, retention, and succession plans

Develops recruitment, retention, and succession plans to maintain a qualified workforce

QMS 5.00. Purchasing and inventory: ensures that requirements for supplies and services are consistently met

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 5.01. Procurement process

Describes laboratory procurement process for current work area

Participates in laboratory procurement process

Manages laboratory procurement process

Ensures that laboratory procurement incorporates organizational rules and collaboration with purchasing authorities

QMS 5.02. Inventory processes

Describes the inventory management processes used in current work area

Follows established inventory management processes, including receipt and inspection processes

Develops inventory processes for laboratory supplies, reagents, and verification* of performance

Oversees inventory management plan

QMS 5.03. Evaluation process

Describes the process to evaluate and provide feedback to suppliers

Executes the process to evaluate and provide feedback to suppliers, consultants, and contractors

Develops a process to evaluate the satisfaction with services and products from suppliers, consultants, and contractors

Oversees a quality improvement plan for purchasing and inventory

QMS 6.00. Laboratory equipment: ensures that laboratory equipment selection, installation, use, maintenance, and troubleshooting meet performance standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 6.01. Acquisition and decommissioning

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures for equipment acquisition and decommissioning

Provides input on the processes and procedures for equipment acquisition and decommissioning

Develops the processes and procedures for equipment acquisition and decommissioning

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for equipment acquisition and decommissioning

QMS 6.02. Equipment qualification plan*

Describes processes and procedures for equipment installation qualification, operational qualification, and performance qualification

Performs equipment installation, operational, and performance qualification procedures

Implements the equipment qualification plan

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the equipment qualification plan

TABLE 1. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 6.00. Laboratory equipment: ensures that laboratory equipment selection, installation, use, maintenance, and troubleshooting meet performance standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 6.03. Maintenance process

Describes processes and procedures for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and service and repair of equipment

Performs procedures for the maintenance, troubleshooting, and service and repair of equipment

Develops the processes for equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and service and repair

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, service, and repair

QMS 6.04. Instrument and equipment calibration

Describes calibration of instruments and equipment

Performs calibration of instruments and equipment

Establishes calibration processes and procedures for instruments and equipment

Oversees calibration policies, processes, and procedures for instruments and equipment

QMS 7.00. Process management:* ensures that operational processes meet organizational requirements

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 7.01. Workflow† processes

Describes workflow processes related to job position and activities

Applies workflow processes according to laboratory policies, processes, and procedures

Develops evaluation, modification, and design of workflow processes and procedures

Oversees the policies, processes and procedures for evaluating and modifying current workflow processes and for developing new workflow processes

QMS 7.02. Process control

Describes how processes are controlled in work area

Participates in process control procedures

Develops the process control plan

Oversees the process control plan

QMS 7.03. Method validation* and performance verification processes

Describes method validation and performance verification processes

Performs procedures for method validation and performance verification

Develops method validation and performance verification processes and procedures

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for validation of new or modified tests or materials and for verification of existing tests or materials

QMS 8.00. Documents* and records:* ensures that there is an effective system to control and manage documents and records

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 8.01. Document management system

Describes how the laboratory controls and manages documents

Applies the policies, processes, and procedures for controlling and managing documents

Develops the policies, processes, and procedures for controlling and managing documents

Oversees the document management system to ensure staff compliance with internal policies, external regulations, and accreditation* requirements

QMS 8.02. Records management system

Describes how the laboratory controls and manages records

Applies the policies, processes, and procedures for controlling and managing records

Develops the policies, processes, and procedures for controlling and managing records

Oversees the record management system to ensure staff compliance with internal policies, external regulations, and accreditation requirements

TABLE 1. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 9.00. Information* management: ensures the confidentiality,* security, and integrity of generated and disseminated information

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 9.01. Confidentiality

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures for maintaining confidentiality of laboratory information

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures for maintaining confidentiality of internally and externally derived information

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for maintaining confidentiality of internally and externally derived information

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for ensuring confidentiality of information and staff compliance with regulations and guidelines

QMS 9.02. Security

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to securing information related to assigned job tasks

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures for securing information

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to ensure information is secure

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for securing information, including audits to meet regulations and guidelines

QMS 9.03. Information integrity

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures for ensuring integrity of information

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the integrity of information

Develops processes and procedures to ensure the integrity of information

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the integrity of information

QMS 10.00. Nonconforming event* management: ensures that processes are in place for detecting and managing nonconforming events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 10.01. Management of nonconforming events (NCEs)

Recognizes NCEs

Responds to NCEs

Investigates NCEs, including the creation of a corrective action plan

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to NCEs

QMS 10.02. Documentation of NCEs

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures to record and report NCEs

Reports discovered NCEs

Performs analysis of records and reports of NCEs to identify trends

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to document NCEs and report NCE information to senior management and external entities

QMS 10.03. Investigation and root cause analysis*

Participates in NCE investigations and root cause analyses

Leads the process of investigating NCEs and performing root cause analyses

Assesses NCE investigations and root cause analyses to improve processes

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for investigating NCEs and performing root cause analyses

QMS 10.04. Notifications of recalls and technical bulletins

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures to address product recalls and technical bulletin notifications

Responds to product recalls and technical bulletin notifications

Develops processes and procedures to address product recalls and technical bulletin notifications

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to address product recalls and technical bulletin notifications

QMS 11.00. Assessments: ensures that processes are in place to perform internal audits* and external assessments*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 11.01. Quality assessment* plan

Adheres to the quality assessment plan

Ensures the application of the quality assessment plan to laboratory operations

Develops the quality assessment plan

Oversees a comprehensive quality assessment plan

QMS 11.02. External assessments

Participates in external assessment activities

Performs external assessment procedures

Develops the processes and procedures to select, enroll, and participate in external assessments

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to external assessment

QMS 11.03. Internal audits

Participates in internal audits

Performs internal audit procedures

Develops the processes and procedures for internal audits

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to internal audits

TABLE 1. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Quality Management System (QMS) domain

QMS 11.00. Assessments: ensures that processes are in place to perform internal audits* and external assessments*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 11.04. Quality indicators*

Describes the elements of pre-examination,* examination,* and postexamination* quality indicators

Employs pre-examination, examination, and postexamination quality indicators

Develops processes and procedures for determining pre-examination, examination, and postexamination quality indicators

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to developing and assessing quality indicators

QMS 11.05. Quality indicator data collection and analysis

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to collecting and analyzing quality indicator data

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures related to collecting and analyzing quality indicator data

Develops the processes and procedures for collecting and analyzing quality indicator data

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to the collection and analysis of quality indicator data

QMS 12.00. Continual improvement: ensures mechanisms for continuous quality improvement

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

QMS 12.01. Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)* program

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to the CQI program

Implements changes identified through the CQI program

Develops the processes and procedures of the CQI program

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to the quality improvement program

QMS 12.02. CQI activities

Participates in CQI activities

Follows CQI processes and procedures for troubleshooting and documenting required CQI activities

Documents staff compliance with CQI activities that support the CQI monitoring, evaluation, and review processes

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to CQI activities

QMS 12.03. Corrective action* process

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to corrective action

Implements the processes and procedures related to corrective action

Develops corrective action processes and procedures to address quality improvement

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to corrective action

QMS 12.04. Preventive action*

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to preventive action

Implements the processes and procedures related to preventive action

Develops the processes and procedures related to preventive action

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to preventive action

QMS 12.05. Change management*

Describes the process to change laboratory policies, processes, and procedures

Participates in the process and procedures related to change management

Implements the change management process, including communication of changes made to established policies, processes, and procedures

Oversees activities related to policy, process, and procedural change management, including evaluation of impact on organizational processes and services

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.


TABLE 2. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Ethics domain

ETH 1.00. Professional code of conduct: adheres to policies* and principles governing professional ethics and rules of conduct when working in a public health laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

ETH 1.01. Personal integrity

Aligns personal integrity with organizational culture

Exemplifies integrity in interactions and activities

Coaches staff in behaviors that exemplify integrity

Creates a culture where integrity is the foundation for all interactions and activities

ETH 1.02. General ethical practices*

Applies ethical principles and professional rules of conduct to the workplace

Serves as a role model of ethical behavior by consistently conforming to the highest ethical standards and practices

Ensures staff compliance with policies and procedures related to ethical principles and professional rules of conduct

Oversees the policies, processes,* and procedures* related to ethical principles and professional rules of conduct

ETH 1.03. Stewardship of resources

Acts as a good steward of public funds and resources

Identifies methods to improve stewardship of resources

Ensures that the use of public funds and resources meet the policies for stewardship

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the environment supports excellence in the stewardship of resources

ETH 2.00. Scientific code of conduct: adheres to policies and principles governing scientific ethics* and rules of conduct when working in a public health laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

ETH 2.01. Scientific integrity*

Verifies scientific integrity of test results and findings

Instructs others in policies, processes, and procedures regarding scientific integrity of test results and findings

Ensures staff compliance with policies and procedures regarding scientific integrity of all results and findings

Oversees the policies, processes and procedures to ensure practices are consistent with guidelines on scientific integrity

ETH 2.02. Scientific ethics

Applies scientific ethics and rules of conduct to the workplace

Serves as a role model of scientific ethical behavior and rules of conduct by consistently conforming to the highest scientific standards and practices

Ensures staff compliance with policies and procedures related to scientific ethics and rules of conduct

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to scientific ethics and rules of conduct

* This term is defined in Appendix B.


TABLE 3. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Management and Leadership domain

MLD 1.00. General management: ensures sound management of laboratory operations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 1.01. Mission, vision, and values

Contributes to activities that support the mission, vision, and values of the laboratory

Explains the relationships between activities that support the mission, vision, and values

Exemplifies the mission, vision and values for the laboratory

Develops the mission, vision and values for the laboratory

MLD 1.02. Organizational structure

Describes the organizational structure of the laboratory

Coordinates laboratory program* structure to meet organizational needs

Adapts organizational structure to meet the laboratory's mission and directives for laboratory programs

Oversees a process* to ensure organizational structure meets the laboratory's mission and directives for laboratory programs

MLD 1.03. Laws and regulations for laboratory operation

Complies with laws and regulations related to laboratory operations

Coordinates program activities according to laws and regulations related to laboratory operations

Manages laboratory programs consistent with laws and regulations related to laboratory operations

Ensures that laboratory programs are consistent with federal, state, and local laws and regulations

MLD 1.04. Technical operations management

Works collaboratively on technical and operational planning

Implements technical and operational plans

Develops processes and procedures to manage technical operations

Oversees the policies,* processes, and procedures* related to the development and evaluation of technical operations

MLD 1.05. Emergency management and response

Describes emergency management policies and procedures

Operates within assigned roles when carrying out emergency management and response duties

Manages the emergency management and response plan at the programmatic level

Oversees laboratory-wide emergency management and response

TABLE 3. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Management and Leadership domain

MLD 1.00. General management: ensures sound management of laboratory operations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 1.06. Analytical and operational services

Describes the processes for introducing improved analytical and operational services

Participates in improvement of analytical and operational services

Manages the improvement of analytical and operational services

Oversees funding and stakeholder relationships needed to implement and improve analytical and operational laboratory services

MLD 1.07. Quality* testing and services

Describes quality principles

Explains the importance of providing quality laboratory testing and services

Evaluates the quality of services for continued quality improvement

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the quality of laboratory testing and services

MLD 1.08. Customer* service

Supports customer service needs

Evaluates customer service satisfaction and trends

Identifies strategies and activities to improve customer service

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the laboratory maintains a customer focus

MLD 1.09. Project management*

Uses basic project management concepts* and tools

Trains staff on project management techniques

Directs the management of projects at the programmatic level

Oversees project management across the laboratory

MLD 1.10. Program effectiveness

Contributes data for program effectiveness monitoring and evaluation

Analyzes data to assist in the monitoring and evaluation of program effectiveness

Directs activities to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of laboratory programs

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the measurement, analysis, and improvement of program effectiveness

MLD 2.00. Policy development: ensures the development, implementation, and review of internal policies

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 2.01. Internal policy development

Describes concepts pertinent to developing internal policies

Compiles important issues, lists of stakeholders, and various options and solutions for internal policy development

Prepares internal policies based on evaluation of short- and long-term consequences of potential policies

Oversees the internal policy development process

MLD 2.02. Internal policy implementation

Complies with documented internal policies and guidelines

Implements internal policies for a laboratory program

Ensures staff compliance with laboratory-wide policies

Oversees internal policy implementation and staff compliance

MLD 2.03. Internal policy review

Reviews internal policies for revisions and updates

Develops amendments or updates to internal policies

Evaluates internal policies

Oversees the review process for internal policies

MLD 3.00. Financial management: ensures sound financial management

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 3.01. Budgets

Complies with budgetary guidelines

Monitors staff compliance to the budget

Reconciles budget, expenditures, and income

Oversees budgets, including development and staff compliance with agency and legislative mandates

MLD 3.02. Revenue and income

Describes revenue sources associated with individual activities

Tracks revenue and income for a laboratory program

Manages revenue and income for the laboratory

Ensures that necessary revenue and income is secured

MLD 3.03. Expenditures

Adheres to guidelines and limits for expenditures

Tracks expenditures for a laboratory program

Ensures staff compliance with guidelines and limits for expenditures

Oversees the policies, process, and procedures related to the cost of operations

TABLE 3. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Management and Leadership domain

MLD 3.00. Financial management: ensures sound financial management

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 3.04. Financial management process

Uses designated financial management tools

Integrates financial management tools for a laboratory program

Optimizes the financial management system for the laboratory

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to financial management and fiduciary responsibility

MLD 3.05. Resource management

Uses workplace resources efficiently

Optimizes use of laboratory program resources

Manages resources for the laboratory

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to resource management

MLD 4.00. Human resource management: ensures effective management of human resources

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 4.01. Human resource policies

Complies with human resource rules and requirements*

Enforces human resource requirements and policies

Manages human resource requirements and policies

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to the human resource system

MLD 4.02. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)* process

Describes the EEO process

Promotes EEO requirements and policies

Manages EEO requirements and policies

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to EEO in the human resource system

MLD 4.03. Position descriptions

Provides input into job description content

Evaluates position descriptions for congruency with job functions

Manages the development and implementation processes for position descriptions

Oversees a system of position description development and implementation to maximize staff competence and meet operational requirements

MLD 4.04. Staff licensure*

Describes the basic education, skills and certifications* for laboratory staff licensure requirements

Maintains a process to ensure that staff meet licensure requirements

Performs ongoing gap analysis to address staff licensure requirements

Ensures staff compliance with licensure laws and regulations

MLD 4.05. Competency assessment

Participates in competency assessments

Manages the competency assessment program

Evaluates the competency assessment program

Ensures that staff competence levels are commensurate with job functions

MLD 4.06. Performance feedback

Participates in communications with peers and supervisors regarding performance

Integrates performance feedback into work routines

Monitors staff progress on agreed-upon performance parameters

Ensures that a system is in place that values honest and open communication about performance

MLD 4.07. Performance appraisal process

Describes how the formal performance appraisal process impacts laboratory operations

Administers performance appraisals

Evaluates effectiveness of the performance appraisal process in improving laboratory productivity and practice

Oversees the continuous improvement of the performance management system

MLD 4.08. Conflict resolution

Identifies the need for management intervention in conflict resolution

Resolves conflicts in a fair and equitable manner

Integrates mechanisms to support cooperation and manage conflict across the laboratory

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the fair and equitable resolution of conflicts

TABLE 3. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Management and Leadership domain

MLD 4.00. Human resource management: ensures effective management of human resources

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 4.09. Progressive discipline

Describes the steps of the progressive discipline process

Administers progressive discipline

Analyzes the use of progressive discipline within the laboratory

Ensures that the progressive discipline system is used to mitigate disciplinary issues

MLD 4.10. Professional development

Participates in professional development activities

Recommends professional development activities

Assesses professional development gaps to ensure and support staff competency development

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to encourage and address professional development

MLD 4.11. Staff advancement

Explains the policies and procedures related to staff advancement

Recommends staff for advancement

Develops criteria for staff advancement

Ensures that staff function in roles commensurate with experience, skill set, and proficiency

MLD 4.12. Succession planning

Recognizes the importance of succession planning

Implements staff development plans that align with the laboratory's succession plan

Develops succession plans that consider current and future needs

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to the creation and implementation of succession plans

MLD 5.00. Leadership: models leadership behavior

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 5.01. Ethical practices* and professional code of conduct

Applies ethical principles and a professional code of conduct to the workplace

Serves as a role model of ethical and professional behavior by consistently conforming to the highest standards and practices

Ensures staff compliance with the policies and procedures related to ethical practices and a professional code of conduct

Fosters the policies, processes, and procedures related to ethical practices and a professional code of conduct

MLD 5.02. Communication

Employs active communication skills

Communicates information and feedback to colleagues and management staff

Ensures the open and frequent exchange of communication between laboratory staff

Fosters a culture of open and frequent communication

MLD 5.03. Teamwork and collaboration

Describes the value of collaboration in the workplace

Collaborates with team members within a laboratory program

Leads cross-functional teams to accomplish projects

Creates a workplace environment that encourages teamwork and collaboration

MLD 5.04. Diversity* culture

Explains the value of having a diverse workforce

Promotes a diverse workforce

Develops programs that support a culture of diversity

Fosters a culture where diversity is valued

MLD 5.05. Staff engagement*

Participates in activities to support the laboratory's goals

Implements activities that support staff engagement

Develops programs that support a culture of staff engagement

Fosters a culture of staff engagement and commitment

MLD 5.06. Staff recognition

Participates in staff recognition programs

Evaluates the effectiveness of staff recognition programs

Develops staff recognition programs

Fosters a culture that ensures staff recognition

MLD 5.07. Coaching* and mentoring*

Describes the benefits of coaching and mentoring

Develops a pool of potential coaches and mentors for staff

Establishes coaching and mentoring programs

Fosters a culture where coaching and mentoring are deeply-rooted

MLD 5.08. Critical thinking*

Develops basic critical thinking skills

Applies critical thinking to develop effective solutions to problems

Leads critical thinking activities to achieve improvements in laboratory processes

Fosters an environment that integrates critical thinking

TABLE 3. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Management and Leadership domain

MLD 5.00. Leadership: models leadership behavior

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MLD 5.09. Systems thinking*

Describes systems thinking

Applies systems thinking when approaching projects and problem solving

Incorporates systems thinking into directing laboratory operations

Fosters an environment that integrates systems thinking

MLD 5.10. Strategic thinking*

Describes strategic thinking

Provides input into strategic thinking and decision-making processes

Integrates strategic thinking into decisions and long-term planning regarding laboratory operations

Fosters an environment that integrates strategic thinking

MLD 5.11. Change management*

Describes the value of change

Implements change management initiatives within a laboratory program

Leads the development of change management initiatives with the laboratory

Fosters a culture that continuously assesses change opportunities for sustaining the mission

MLD 5.12. Advocacy

Educates external stakeholders on the mission, vision, and activities of the laboratory

Collaborates with external stakeholders

Identifies gaps in engagement with external stakeholders to support the activities of the laboratory

Develops strategies to engage external stakeholders to accomplish the mission, vision, and activities of the laboratory

MLD 5.13. External policy development

Describes impacts of external policies related to the organization's mission

Communicates with stakeholders to exchange policy input

Promotes external policy development to support the organization's mission and vision

Fosters relationships with strategic partners to secure laboratory-inclusive policies consistent with the organization's mission and vision

MLD 5.14. Promotion of the health of populations

Recognizes the need for partnerships to promote the health of populations

Identifies potential partnerships to promote the health of populations

Facilitates participation of key stakeholders to promote the health of populations

Fosters partnerships with key stakeholders to promote the health of populations affected by laboratory services

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

TABLE 4. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Communication domain

COM 1.00 Communication techniques: deploys formal written and oral communication strategies

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 1.01. Written communication

Identifies key messages for written communication

Applies logical structure* to written communications

Incorporates tools to organize and present detailed or complex information*

Establishes content, style, tone, and form for written messages according to target audience

COM 1.02. Oral communication

Identifies key messages for oral communication

Applies language and tone in oral communications tailored to target audience

Selects communication methods* tailored to target audience

Establishes content, style, tone, and form for oral messages tailored to target audience

COM 2.00. Active listening* skills: displays active listening skills when interacting with others

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 2.01. Dialogue exchange

Provides undivided attention to the other participants in a dialogue

Summarizes the dialogue to show understanding

Provides feedback based on the dialogue summary

Facilitates dialogue exchange through paraphrasing and clarification of critical points

COM 2.02. Contextual clues

Exhibits open posture and facial expression to engage the other participants in a dialogue

Applies range of body language cues to enhance the exchange

Exhibits active listening during the dialogue exchange

Incorporates multiple behaviors of engagement during dialogue exchanges

COM 2.03. Respectful exchange

Defers judgment during dialogue exchanges

Provides counterpoints while being respectful of disagreements

Coaches others in techniques of respectful exchange

Facilitates respectful dialogue among participants in the exchange

TABLE 4. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Communication domain

COM 3.00. Comprehension of materials: demonstrates comprehension of written documents* and directions

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 3.01. Reading comprehension

Follows written directions

Applies knowledge acquired from written text to situations

Adapts concepts from written text for use in new situations

Extrapolates information from written text to develop new ideas that enhance work processes*

COM 4.00. Communication technology:* utilizes technology to communicate information to internal and external partners

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 4.01. Technology capability

Describes the laboratory's and partner's technological capabilities

Selects laboratory's technology options to align with partner's capabilities

Evaluates existing and potential technology to align with partner's capabilities

Establishes technology policies* that integrate with the partner's capabilities

COM 4.02. Use of technology

Describes employer's policies and procedures* for sharing information

Uses designated technology for sharing information

Manages technology policies and procedures used for sharing information

Evaluates the effectiveness of the technology used for sharing information

COM 5.00. Communication professionalism: ensures professionalism in communication with customers* and stakeholders

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 5.01. Professional attitude

Uses tone of voice and language tailored to interactions with customers and stakeholders

Displays professional demeanor in all situations with customers and stakeholders

Monitors interactions with customers and stakeholders to ensure they are conducted professionally

Establishes policies for professional customer and stakeholder interactions

COM 5.02. Information exchange

Provides information based on policies and procedures to meet the needs of customers and stakeholders

Determines information needs through collaboration with customers and stakeholders

Ensures that information exchange policies, processes, and procedures are followed to meet the needs of the customers and stakeholders

Develops overarching system for exchange of information to meet the needs of customers and stakeholders

COM 5.03. Information sharing opportunities

Shares information as directed

Selects information to share

Develops information to share

Creates opportunities for sharing information

COM 6.00. Professional reports: prepares professional written reports and oral presentations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 6.01. Written reports

Organizes information for written reports

Creates drafts of written reports

Revises written reports

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures for written reports

COM 6.02. Oral presentations

Organizes information for oral presentations

Creates drafts of oral presentations

Revises oral presentations

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures for oral presentations

COM 7.00. Risk communication:* applies emergency and risk communication principles and techniques to explain information to targeted audiences

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 7.01. Risk communication plan

Describes the risk communication process

Adheres to the risk communication plan

Ensures staff compliance with the risk communication plan

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures related to the risk communication plan

TABLE 4. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Communication domain

COM 7.00. Risk communication:* applies emergency and risk communication principles and techniques to explain information to targeted audiences

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 7.02. Emergency information

Lists basic emergency information for target audience

Identifies specific emergency information for target audience

Develops emergency information and messages tailored to target audience

Collaborates with agency leaders and partners to deliver emergency information and messages tailored to target audience

COM 7.03. Empathetic risk communication

Describes empathetic risk communication concepts

Delivers empathetic messaging in high-risk situations or emergencies

Creates empathetic messaging in high-risk situations and emergencies

Evaluates empathetic messaging for high-risk situations and emergencies

COM 8.00. Public health laboratory value: promotes the value of the public health laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 8.01. Public relations

Describes impact of the work of the public health laboratory and system

Coordinates opportunities for promoting the public health laboratory and system

Identifies opportunities to promote the public health laboratory and system

Develops opportunities to promote the public health laboratory and system

COM 8.02. Communication to educate and inform

Supports the development and distribution of communication materials about the public health laboratory

Presents communication materials to explain the importance of the public health laboratory

Develops communication materials to explain the importance of the public health laboratory

Manages the policies, processes, and procedures regarding communication materials to explain the importance of the public health laboratory

COM 8.03. Storytelling

Shares approved public health laboratory stories

Incorporates use of stories when communicating the impact of public health laboratory work

Develops stories that convey information highlighting the impact of public health laboratory work

Evaluates the impact of storytelling in promoting the public health laboratory

COM 8.04. Marketing strategy

Participates in marketing strategies

Implements the marketing strategy for the public health laboratory

Manages the marketing strategy for the public health laboratory

Oversees the marketing strategy for the public health laboratory

COM 9.00. Media relations: works with the media to provide information about public health laboratories and public health issues

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

COM 9.01. Media relations policies and strategies

Adheres to agency media relations policies and procedures

Identifies situations where agency media relations policies and strategies apply

Monitors the application of agency media relations policies and strategies

Oversees media relations policies and strategies

COM 9.02. "Plain talk"*

Describes the value of using "plain talk"

Applies "plain talk" during public and media interactions

Develops "plain talk" language for media and public communications

Translates highly technical concepts using "plain talk" for media and public communications

COM 9.03. Key messages

Describes the value of using key messages

Applies key messages during public and media interactions

Develops key messages for media and public communications

Oversees delivery of key messages on complicated, high-risk topics

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

TABLE 5. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Security domain

SEC 1.00. Risk mitigation: ensures that the laboratory's risk mitigation plan* meets organizational goals, regulatory requirements,* and established standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 1.01. Security concepts*

Describes security concepts

Applies security concepts in support of organizational goals

Interprets security concepts to adapt policies* and procedures* to support organizational goals

Develops security policies, processes,* and procedures, including security standards

SEC 1.02. Risk assessment†

Describes the risk assessment process and procedures

Identifies assets,* vulnerabilities, and potential threats for incorporation into risk analyses

Manages the risk assessment process

Develops policies, processes, and procedures regarding risk assessment

SEC 1.03. Risk mitigation plans

Describes the policies and procedures regarding risk mitigation plans

Applies risk mitigation plans

Manages the implementation of risk mitigation plans

Develops policies, processes, and procedures regarding risk mitigation planning and implementation

SEC 1.04. Risk mitigation plan reporting

Describes policies, processes, and procedures for risk mitigation plan reporting

Implements processes and procedures for risk mitigation plan reporting

Develops procedures based on established processes for risk mitigation plan reporting

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for risk mitigation plan reporting

SEC 2.00. Security plan:* ensures that the laboratory's security plan meets organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and established standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 2.01. Security plans

Recognizes security risks documented in the security plan

Recommends elements to be included in the security plan to address risks

Designs laboratory's security plan in collaboration with subject matter experts

Advises organizational leadership on the security plan, including acceptability of identified risks

SEC 2.02. Security plan implementation

Describes security plan elements applicable to job

Implements the security plan

Evaluates the objectives and functions of the security system

Advises organizational leadership on selecting security strategies to protect assets and on monitoring the performance of the security plan

TABLE 5. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Security domain

SEC 2.00. Security plan:* ensures that the laboratory's security plan meets organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and established standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 2.03. Security operations

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures for maintaining security

Monitors security operations

Manages security operations to ensure defined protection measures are based on the degree of risk

Oversees security operations

SEC 2.04. Inventory records* related to security plans

Completes inventory records to comply with the laboratory's security plan

Audits inventory records

Creates tools to manage inventory records

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to manage inventory records

SEC 2.05. Security incident* response

Reports security incidents

Evaluates reported security incidents

Implements processes and procedures related to security incident response and reporting

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for security incident response and reporting

SEC 3.00. Physical security: ensures that physical security is maintained

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 3.01. Physical security infrastructure*

Describes the physical security infrastructure

Trains staff on policies, processes, procedures, and related regulations regarding physical security infrastructure

Solves difficult and complex physical security problems

Directs the resolution of major conflicts in physical security policy and program objectives

SEC 3.02. Physical security access controls*

Describes physical security access control policies, processes, procedures, and systems

Applies physical security access control procedures and systems

Manages the implementation of physical security access control policies, processes, procedures, and systems

Advises organizational authorities on methods for enhancing effectiveness and efficiency of physical security access control policies, processes, procedures, and systems

SEC 4.00. Personnel security program:* implements a personnel security program to meet organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and established standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 4.01. Personnel security concepts*

Describes personnel security concepts

Addresses problems or questions involving personnel security concepts

Interprets personnel security concepts to adapt processes and procedures to support organizational goals

Develops policies, processes, and procedures that incorporate personnel security concepts into personnel security program

SEC 4.02. Personnel security program

Complies with the laboratory's personnel security program

Implements the personnel security program

Solves difficult and complex personnel security problems

Directs the resolution of major conflicts in personnel security policy and program objectives

SEC 4.03. Investigations

Collects information* for personnel security investigations

Analyses actions regarding personnel security matters requiring investigation

Determines actions to be taken on personnel security investigations

Develops policies, processes, and procedures related to personnel security investigations

TABLE 5. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Security domain

SEC 5.00. Information security:* ensures that information security meets organizational goals, regulatory requirements, and established standards

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 5.01. Information security

Describes policies, processes, and procedures related to information security

Applies information security concepts, including principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA)*

Interprets information security concepts to adapt policies, processes, and procedures to support organizational goals

Develops policies, processes, procedures, and organizational standards for information security to meet organizational goals

SEC 5.02. Risk identification and prioritization

Describes the risks associated with the laboratory's sensitive information* or technology related to the job being performed

Identifies risks associated with the laboratory's sensitive information and technology, including the methods of control

Implements processes and procedures for prioritizing risks associated with the laboratory's sensitive information and technology, including the methods of control

Develops polices, processes, and procedures for identifying, prioritizing, and controlling sensitive information and technology

SEC 6.00. Transportation security program: implements a transportation security plan*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SEC 6.01. Transport security

Complies with transport security policies, processes, and procedures

Audits transport records

Creates transport security procedures

Establishes policies and processes to specify which materials need designated levels of transport security

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† The process of identifying risks to organizational assets (including staff) and operations (including mission, functions, image, and reputation); includes threat and vulnerability analyses and is the fundamental tool to help select the right risk mitigation measures (e.g., engineered controls, standard policies and procedures) to achieve an acceptable level of security.

TABLE 6. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Emergency Management and Response domain

EMR 1.00. Mitigation of emergency events: mitigates emergency events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

EMR 1.01. Risk assessment*

Recognizes potential vulnerabilities and risks in their work area

Assesses potential vulnerabilities and risks in the organization

Develops the plan to reduce and ensure against risks in the organization

Manages the policies†, processes†, and procedures† to reduce and ensure against risks in the organization

EMR 1.02. Incident response plan†

Describes the incident response plan

Implements the incident response plan while maintaining safety and security of staff and facilities

Verifies staff compliance with the incident response plan while ensuring the safety and security of staff and facilities

Manages facility-wide implementation of the incident response plan

EMR 1.03. Emergency situation recognition

Recognizes emergencies and other incidents† in their work area that should be reported

Recognizes emergencies and other incidents in the organization that should be reported

Evaluates staff's ability to recognize emergencies and other incidents that should be reported

Creates an environment that supports the recognition and reporting of emergencies

EMR 1.04. Emergency alarms†

Recognizes significance of alarms

Instructs others on the significance of alarms

Evaluates staff's knowledge of alarm significance

Collaborates with persons and agencies to develop site-specific or unique alarm systems

EMR 1.05. Laboratory assets† important during an emergency

Describes the assets in their work area

Inventories the assets in the facility

Identifies the assets in the facility

Manages the assets in the facility

EMR 1.06. Evaluation of emergency events

Summarizes the emergency evaluation process

Assesses emergencies to determine the extent of each incident

Interprets data from evaluation of emergencies to develop specific response to each incident

Shares findings of the evaluation of, and responses to, emergency events with stakeholders to enhance mitigation

TABLE 6. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Emergency Management and Response domain

EMR 2.00. Preparation for emergency events: prepares for emergency events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

EMR 2.01. Preparation for emergency events

Explains the laboratory's emergency response plan† and Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)†

Assists with development and implementation of the laboratory's emergency response plan and COOP

Manages development and implementation of the emergency response plan and COOP for an individual area of responsibility

Oversees laboratory's emergency response plan, including implementation of the COOP with external partners

EMR 2.02. Incident command system (ICS)†

Demonstrates awareness of the ICS by completing a FEMA-approved introductory course

Completes higher-level FEMA-approved courses to explain the operation and management of the ICS

Implements the ICS by completing high-level FEMA-approved courses and internal training courses and exercises

Serves at a leadership level in the ICS

EMR 2.03. Emergency response training

Participates in emergency response training, exercises, and drills

Contributes to the development of emergency response training, exercises, and drills

Conducts emergency response training, exercises, and drills in collaboration with stakeholder agencies

Oversees the collaboration with stakeholder agencies to sponsor and conduct training, exercises, and drills, ensuring proper resources are available

EMR 2.04. Emergency notification

Describes requirements† for notification of emergencies and other incidents according to organizational plans and policies

Implements organizational plans and policies for notification of emergencies and other incidents

Develops internal policies and procedures for notification of emergencies and other incidents

Oversees the collaboration with stakeholders and agencies to develop and implement plans and policies for notification of emergencies and other incidents

EMR 2.05. Identification of key partners

Describe partners and their relationships with the institution

Interacts with partners on staff

Engages partners to sustain relationships and ensure effective response

Develops new partnerships to ensure effective emergency response

EMR 2.06. Execution of agreements

Describes emergency agreements between the institution and other partners

Updates agreements with partners to ensure emergency response capability

Trains staff on agreements in place to ensure emergency response capability

Negotiates agreements between partner organizations to ensure emergency response capability

EMR 2.07. Emergency preparedness and response networks†

Explains how the laboratory interacts with emergency preparedness and response networks

Describes the plans, policies and procedures the institution has in place to prepare for and respond to a public health emergency

Develops the organizational plans, policies and procedures to prepare for and respond to a public health emergency

Oversees the collaboration with emergency preparedness and response networks to develop and implement plans, policies, and procedures to prepare for and respond to a public health emergency

EMR 3.00. Responding to emergency events: responds to emergency events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

EMR 3.01. Situational briefing

Participates in meetings and conference calls to receive information† on the situation

Prepares information on the situation

Facilitates the briefing of key stakeholders to create situational awareness

Manages implementation of COOP measures and ICS activation

EMR 3.02. ICS activation

Performs position responsibilities as assigned

Produces information and documentation for briefings

Confirms staff are available with proper qualifications and capabilities

Establishes organization's ICS structure, reporting procedures, and chain of command

EMR 3.03. Emergency evacuation

Locates emergency evacuation routes and assembly areas

Uses emergency evacuation routes and assembly areas

Instructs staff during evacuation

Manages emergency evacuation and assembly

TABLE 6. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Emergency Management and Response domain

EMR 3.00. Responding to emergency events: responds to emergency events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

EMR 3.04. Hazardous spill† response

Recognizes hazardous spills or potential exposures

Complies with procedures for responding to hazardous spills or potential exposures

Instructs staff on proper response to hazardous spills or potential exposures

Manages response to hazardous spills or potential exposures

EMR 3.05. Emergency decontamination†

Describes emergency decontamination and exposure prevention† policies and procedures

Complies with emergency decontamination and exposure prevention policies and procedures

Instructs staff on policies, processes, and procedures for emergency decontamination and exposure prevention

Manages emergency decontamination and exposure prevention policies, processes, and procedures

EMR 3.06. Surge capacity

Describes circumstances for, and varying degrees of surge

Adjusts workflow§ to ensure timeliness of diagnostic testing in collaboration with surge partners

Identifies creative strategies to manage surge or overflow testing

Implements a management system that promotes flexibility and maximizes the ability to deliver surge capacity

EMR 3.07. Emergency communication plan†

Describes the emergency communication plan and the policies and procedures for receiving and disseminating information with emergency response partners and/or public

Complies with the emergency communication plan and the policies and procedures for receiving and disseminating information with emergency response partners and/or public

Ensures rapid and secure communications with emergency response partners and/or public during emergencies and surge incidents

Manages the emergency communication plan and the policies, processes, and procedures for securely receiving and disseminating information with emergency response partners and the public during emergencies and surge incidents

EMR 4.00. Recovering from emergency events: recovers from emergency events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

EMR 4.01. Short-term recovery

Follows established plans to resume normal operations after an emergency event

Implements plans to resume normal operations after an emergency event

Determines whether staff and facilities are able to return to normal operations after an emergency event

Manages re-opening and/or continuation of routine services

EMR 4.02. After Action Review (AAR)†

Describes the AAR process

Participates in AAR process

Assists with developing the final AAR

Oversees the AAR process

EMR 4.03. Long-term recovery

Lists improvements to laboratory plans based on the AAR

Identifies improvements to laboratory plans and operations based on the AAR

Implements improvements to laboratory plans and operations based on the AAR

Develops recommendations to improve laboratory plans and operations based on the AAR along with internal and external partners and stakeholders

EMR 4.04. Financial considerations

Lists costs relative to response and recovery activities

Explains costs relative to response and recovery activities

Determines financial and staff resources required to facilitate laboratory's response and recovery

Verifies financial and staff resources are in place to facilitate laboratory's response and recovery

EMR 4.05. Legal and regulatory issues

Describes legal and regulatory requirements for managing emergency events

Implements legal and regulatory requirements for managing emergency events

Assesses staff compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to the managing of emergency events

Oversees staff compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to the managing of emergency events

* The process of identifying risks to organizational assets (including staff) and operations (including mission, functions, image, and reputation); includes threat and vulnerability analyses and is the fundamental tool to help select the right risk mitigation measures (e.g., engineered controls, standard policies and procedures) to achieve an acceptable level of security.

† This term is defined in Appendix B.

§ Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.

TABLE 7. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Workforce Training domain

WFT 1.00. Content: gathers training content

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 1.01. Needs assessment*

Supports needs assessment activities

Conducts needs assessments

Develops needs assessment tools

Prioritizes training needs based on needs assessments

WFT 1.02. Adult learning methodologies

Explains adult learning methodologies

Selects principles and methodologies which underpin adult learning

Integrates principles of adult learning for use in designing training

Ensures that adult learning principles are applied in designing training

WFT 1.03. Subject matter expertise

Employs subject matter knowledge in order to train entry-level staff

Implements established science and technology content

Develops emerging science and technology content

Collaborates with national and international scientific communities to create new knowledge on subject matters

WFT 1.04. Training topics

Researches emerging training topics

Implements training for emerging training topics

Designs training for emerging training topics

Identifies emerging training topics with national and international scientific communities

WFT 1.05. Incorporation of subject matter expertise into training activities

Explains requirements* for the use of subject matter experts

Collaborates with subject matter experts to gather content

Develops new processes* to capture subject matter expertise

Identifies emerging processes to capture subject matter expertise

WFT 2.00. Training design: designs training

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 2.01. Instructional design*

Explains instructional design principles

Recognizes the instructional design principles in existing training activities

Applies instructional design principles to develop a new training activity

Evaluates instructional design and training modalities* throughout the entire menu of training for the organization

WFT 2.02. Learning objectives

Explains learning objective concepts and training activities

Develops training activities around existing learning objectives

Creates learning objectives for new training activities

Evaluates whether learning objectives were written following industry guidelines

WFT 2.03. Training modalities

Identifies different types of training modalities

Implements the modality for training

Selects the modality for the training

Provides vision and guidance for training modalities

TABLE 7. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Workforce Training domain

WFT 2.00. Training design: designs training

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 2.04. Cultural awareness

Explains cultural awareness and its importance as it relates to developing training activities

Applies cultural awareness principles when designing training activities

Evaluates the incorporation of cultural awareness principles into training activities

Ensures incorporation of cultural awareness principles into training activities

WFT 2.05. Instructional materials preparation

Assembles instructional materials

Prepares instructional materials for existing programs

Develops instructional materials for new programs that are aligned with the type of training activity and modality

Incorporates industry-wide instructional materials into the training program

WFT 2.06. Training materials application

Uses pre-existing training materials to design simple training

Integrates multiple types of training materials into training design

Develops training materials from industry resources

Evaluates training materials from industry resources

WFT 2.07. Training exercises

Delivers exercises within a training session

Integrates individual training lessons, including experiential exercises

Evaluates training exercises

Designs integrated training exercises with partners

WFT 2.08. Formative assessment*

Explains formative assessment

Employs formative assessments

Creates formative assessments

Evaluates effectiveness of formative assessments

WFT 2.09. Continuing education

Explains the requirements of the continuing education provider

Follows continuing education provider requirements when conducting training

Selects continuing education provider for new learning activities

Oversees the continuing education provider process

WFT 3.00. Delivery set-up: manages the logistics of set-up for training delivery

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 3.01. Equipment preparation for training delivery

Operates equipment needed to deliver training

Troubleshoots training equipment

Ensures that equipment capability aligns with the training requirements

Oversees processes for upgrading training equipment

WFT 3.02. eLearning*

Tests eLearning courses

Creates supporting materials or content for storyboards

Develops storyboards for new courses using subject matter expert materials

Ensures that eLearning delivery systems are available

WFT 3.03. Learning environment*

Provides support for learning environment processes

Manages processes of the learning environment

Develops processes to manage the learning environment

Oversees the processes for the learning environment

WFT 4.00. Training delivery: applies principles of learning to training implementation and delivery

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 4.01. Learning preferences and styles

Explains presentation materials for different learning preferences and styles

Differentiates presentation materials to address learning preferences and styles

Develops presentation materials to address learning preferences and styles

Creates strategies to address learning preferences and styles

WFT 4.02. Presentation engagement

Explains the most effective presentation tools and techniques

Uses the most effective presentation tools and techniques

Ensures implementation of the most effective presentation tools and techniques

Oversees presentation engagement strategies

TABLE 7. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Workforce Training domain

WFT 5.00. Training evaluation: evaluates learner knowledge and skill development

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 5.01. Training evaluation process*

Lists the steps the organization undertakes for training program evaluation

Carries out the evaluation steps for standard training evaluations for routine courses

Develops training evaluation tools* for a new activity

Oversees the evaluation of the training process for the organization

WFT 5.02. Delivery of the evaluation

Contributes to development of a training assessment rubric* to ensure training outcomes are met

Implements the training assessment rubric to ensure training outcomes are met

Creates a training assessment rubric to ensure training outcomes are met

Evaluates the training assessment rubric to ensure training outcomes are met

WFT 5.03. Training reports*

Gathers data as directed for summative training reports

Compiles tracking data into summative training reports

Develops summative training reporting tools

Interprets summative data from reports for delivery to stakeholders

WFT 5.04. Training activity effectiveness

Shares training activity observations with supervisor

Assesses participants' achievement of training objectives

Recommends improvements based on evaluation data from training assessment tools

Implements improvements to the professional development activities of the laboratory

WFT 5.05. Continuous improvement of the training program

Participates in continuous improvement activities

Identifies activities leading to the continuous improvement of a training plan

Facilitates activities leading to the continuous improvement of a training plan

Develops a training program improvement plan based on program evaluation

WFT 6.00. Marketing: markets training opportunities

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

WFT 6.01. Marketing

Participates in the marketing of training

Composes content for marketing materials

Develops organizational marketing plan for training

Manages the training marketing plan

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

TABLE 8. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: General Laboratory Practice domain

GEN 1.00. General technical and laboratory practice knowledge: demonstrates general knowledge and skills related to the scientific and technical components of laboratory testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 1.01. General scientific and laboratory concepts and theories

Applies basic scientific and laboratory concepts and theories* related to the specific testing that is conducted in work area

Instructs others in concepts and theories related to the specific testing that is conducted in work area

Ensures that accepted concepts and theories are applied to laboratory testing

Oversees that laboratory practices are in accordance with accepted scientific and laboratory concepts and theories

GEN 1.02. Mathematical and statistical concepts and practices

Applies fundamental mathematical and statistical concepts and practices in work area

Instructs others in fundamental mathematical and statistical concepts and practices

Ensures appropriate utilization of mathematical and statistical concepts and practices

Oversees the policies,* processes,* and procedures* regarding the use of mathematical and statistical concepts and practices

GEN 1.03. Scientific and technological advances

Reads scientific and technical literature relevant to own work

Discusses scientific and technical advances relevant to own work

Integrates scientific and technical advances into laboratory operations

Critiques scientific and technological advances to evaluate possible impact for the laboratory

GEN 1.04. Technical skills

Applies basic laboratory techniques to laboratory testing

Integrates basic laboratory techniques into standard operating procedures* and new laboratory practices

Ensures that staff are properly trained in the performance of technical skills

Oversees the application of technical skills to laboratory practices

GEN 1.05. Troubleshooting

Identifies routine problems related to technical duties and responsibilities

Resolves routine technical problems with methods, procedures, and laboratory equipment,* including documenting corrective action

Resolves complex technical problems with methods, procedures, and laboratory equipment, including documenting corrective action

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to troubleshooting technical problems

GEN 1.06. Model laboratory practices*

Applies knowledge of model laboratory practices

Instructs others in model laboratory practices

Implements model laboratory practices

Manages policies, processes, and procedures to ensure staff comply with model laboratory practices

TABLE 8. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: General Laboratory Practice domain

GEN 1.00. General technical and laboratory practice knowledge: demonstrates general knowledge and skills related to the scientific and technical components of laboratory testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 1.07. Documentation

Documents actions and results using established paper or electronic systems

Instructs others in use of paper or electronic methods or systems for documentation

Ensures utilization of established paper and electronic documentation methods or systems

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the creation and use of paper and electronic methods or systems for documentation

GEN 1.08. Stewardship of resources

Acts as a good steward of public funds and resources

Identifies methods to improve stewardship of resources

Ensures that the use of public funds and resources meet the policies for stewardship

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure the environment supports effective stewardship of resources

GEN 1.09. Scientific ethics*

Applies scientific ethics and rules of conduct to the workplace

Serves as a role model, consistently conforming to the highest scientific standards and practices

Ensures staff compliance with the policies and procedures related to scientific ethics and rules of conduct

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to scientific ethics and rules of conduct

GEN 2.00. Reagent use and storage: adheres to policies and principles regarding the use and storage of laboratory reagents and supplies

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 2.01. Use and storage of reagents and supplies

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures for use and storage of reagents and supplies

Instructs staff in use and storage of reagents and supplies

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for use and storage of reagents and supplies

Oversees the use and storage of reagents and supplies

GEN 2.02. Reagent preparation

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures for preparing reagents

Instructs staff in preparing reagents

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for reagent preparation

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for reagent preparation

GEN 3.00. Equipment use: adheres to policies and principles regarding the use, maintenance, and calibration of laboratory equipment

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 3.01. Equipment operation

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures for operating laboratory equipment

Instructs staff in the operation of laboratory equipment

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for the operation of laboratory equipment

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the operation of laboratory equipment

GEN 3.02. Equipment maintenance

Performs routine system checks and maintenance

Instructs staff in procedures to ensure equipment function

Determines need for repair or replacement of laboratory equipment

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the maintenance, repair, and replacement of laboratory equipment

GEN 3.03. Instrument and equipment calibration

Performs calibration of routine instruments and equipment

Performs calibration of complex instruments and equipment

Develops processes and procedures for calibration of instruments and equipment

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for calibration of instruments and equipment

GEN 3.04. Preventive maintenance and calibration records*

Documents maintenance and calibration activities

Inspects preventive maintenance and calibrations records for completeness

Evaluates the preventive maintenance and calibration records

Oversees the preventive maintenance and calibration program

TABLE 8. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: General Laboratory Practice domain

GEN 4.00. Pre-examination:* performs steps in the pre-examination phase of testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 4.01. Sample management*

Follows policies, processes, and procedures for the management of samples*

Instructs others in policies, processes, and procedures for sample management

Monitors staff compliance with established sample management policies, processes, and procedures

Oversees sample management policies, processes, and procedures

GEN 5.00. Examination:* performs steps in the examination phase of testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 5.01. Sample analyses

Performs sample analyses

Instructs staff in sample analyses

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for sample analyses

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to sample analyses

GEN 5.02.Testing workflow†

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures for testing workflow

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding testing workflow

Ensures staff compliance in following established testing workflow

Oversees the policies, processes and procedures that optimize and improve testing workflow

GEN 5.03. Quality control (QC)* analysis

Performs QC activities

Interprets QC data prior to reporting results

Examines QC data over time to establish QC ranges and limits

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QC activities, including staff compliance

GEN 6.00. Postexamination:* performs steps in the postexamination phase of testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 6.01. QC evaluation

Assembles QC data for evaluation

Evaluates QC data for a given data reporting period

Ensures staff compliance with established policies, processes, and procedures for QC evaluation activities

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QC evaluation activities

GEN 6.02. Test analysis and results interpretation

Assembles test data for review and action

Analyzes test data

Interprets complex or ambiguous results

Oversees the policies, processes, procedures, and algorithms related to data analysis and results interpretation

GEN 6.03. Results reporting and data release

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results*

Instructs staff in the policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results to partners

GEN 6.04. Turnaround time (TAT)

Performs laboratory testing and reporting within specified or expected TAT

Monitors TAT performance

Identifies process efficiencies to improve TAT

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to TAT

GEN 6.05. Quality assurance (QA)*

Explains the differences between QA and QC

Collects data for reporting on QA indicators and processes

Evaluates QA indicator data

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QA

TABLE 8. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: General Laboratory Practice domain

GEN 7.00. Regulatory compliance: complies with regulations and guidelines governing laboratory testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

GEN 7.01. Regulatory compliance

Complies with regulatory requirements* and guidelines related to laboratory testing

Instructs staff on regulatory requirements and guidelines related to laboratory testing

Ensures staff compliance with regulatory requirements and guidelines related to laboratory testing

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding regulatory requirements and guidelines related to laboratory testing

GEN 7.02. Proficiency testing* (PT) and alternative assessment*

Performs PT and alternative assessment

Reviews PT and alternative assessment results

Monitors to ensure the PT and alternative assessment program meets regulatory requirements

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to PT and alternative assessments

GEN 7.03. Proficiency testing (PT) and alternative assessment reporting

Reports PT and alternative assessment

Reviews submissions of PT and alternative assessment results

Ensures staff compliance with reporting of PT and alternative assessment results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to PT and alternative assessment reporting

GEN 7.04. Method validation* and performance verification*

Participates in performance of method validation and performance verification

Compiles results of method validation and performance verification

Evaluates method validation and performance verification results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to method validation and performance verification

GEN 7.05. Protected information*

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures regarding protected information

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding protected information

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding protected information

Oversees that organizational policies, processes, and procedures related to protected information align with laws and regulatory requirements and guidelines

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.

TABLE 9. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: potential hazards

SPH 1.00. Physical environment: works safely in the physical environment of the laboratory facility*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SPH 1.01. Physical hazards* in the laboratory facility

Describes the physical hazards in the laboratory facility

Recognizes new physical hazards in the laboratory facility

Assesses staff knowledge of the physical hazards in the laboratory facility

Evaluates the laboratory facility for physical hazards

SPH 1.02. Control measures* to be used when physical hazards are present

Describes control measures to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Implements control measures to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Ensures staff knowledge of control measures to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Establishes the control measures to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

SPH 1.03. Work practices* to be used when physical hazards are present

Describes work practices to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Implements work practices to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Ensures that staff implement the established work practices when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

Establishes the work practices to be used when physical hazards are present in the laboratory facility

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: potential hazards

SPH 2.00. Biological materials:* works safely with biological materials in the laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SPH 2.01. Biological materials used in the laboratory

Lists the biological materials in the laboratory

Distinguishes biohazardous materials* from nonbiohazardous materials in the laboratory

Manages the inventory of biological materials to ensure it is complete and updated

Establishes the policies,* processes,* and procedures* for implementing a biological materials inventory system

SPH 2.02. Hazards associated with the biological materials handled in the laboratory

Describes hazards associated with the biological materials handled in the laboratory

Recognizes hazards associated with new biological materials used in laboratory procedures

Assesses staff knowledge of the hazards associated with biological materials used in laboratory procedures

Ensures that staff are skilled in describing and recognizing hazards associated with the biological materials used in the laboratory

SPH 2.03. Control measures to be used when working with biological materials

Describes the control measures to be used when working with biological materials

Implements the control measures to be used when working with biological materials

Ensures that staff implement the established control measures when working with biological materials

Establishes the control measures to be used when working with biological materials

SPH 2.04. Work practices to be used when working with biological materials

Describes the work practices to be used when working with biological materials

Implements the work practices to be used when working with biological materials

Ensures that staff implement the established work practices when working with biological materials

Establishes the work practices to be used when working with biological materials

SPH 2.05. Hazards associated with laboratory procedures

Describes hazards associated with the laboratory procedures employed

Trains staff in the hazards associated with the laboratory procedures employed

Manages the hazards associated with laboratory procedures

Ensures that staff are capable of recognizing, training, and managing the hazards associated with laboratory procedures

SPH 3.00. Research animals:* works safely with research animals

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SPH 3.01. Hazards associated with research animals

Describes hazards associated with working with research animals

Identifies hazards associated with the particular species of animals used in the laboratory's research

Assesses staff knowledge of the hazards associated with the particular species of animals used in the laboratory's research

Ensures that staff are skilled in describing and recognizing hazards associated with the research animals used in the laboratory's research

SPH 3.02. Route of exposure* to infectious agents in the animal care setting

Describes possible route(s) of exposure to infectious agents in relation to animal procedures

Identifies the possible route(s) of exposure to infectious agents in relation to the animal procedures used in the laboratory or animal facility

Assesses staff knowledge of the hazards associated with the animal procedures used in the laboratory or animal facility

Evaluates possible route(s) of exposure to infectious agents in relation to the animal procedures used in the laboratory and animal facilities

SPH 3.03. Control measures to be used when working with research animals

Describes control measures to be used when working with research animals

Implements control measures to be used when working with research animals

Ensures that staff implement the established control measures when working with research animals

Establishes the control measures to be used when working with research animals

SPH 3.04. Work practices to be used when working with research animals

Describes work practices to be used when working with research animals

Implements work practices to be used when working with research animals

Ensures that staff implement the established work practices when working with research animals

Establishes the work practices to be used when working with research animals

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: potential hazards

SPH 4.00. Chemical materials:* works safely with chemical materials in the laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SPH 4.01. Chemicals used in the laboratory

Identifies chemicals used in the laboratory

Distinguishes hazardous chemicals* from nonhazardous chemicals in the laboratory

Manages the chemical inventory to ensure it is complete and updated

Establishes the policies, processes, and procedures for implementing a chemical inventory system

SPH 4.02. Hazards associated with chemicals used in the laboratory

Describes hazards associated with chemicals used in the laboratory

Recognizes hazards associated with new chemicals used in the laboratory

Assesses staff knowledge of the hazards associated with chemicals used in the laboratory

Ensures that staff are skilled in describing and recognizing hazards associated with chemicals used in the laboratory

SPH 4.03. Control measures to be used when working with chemicals in the laboratory

Describes control measures to be used when working with chemicals as documented in the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan*

Implements established control measures when working with chemicals according to the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan

Ensures that staff implement the established control measures when working with chemicals in compliance with the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan

Establishes the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan, including specific control measures to be used when working with chemicals

SPH 4.04. Work practices to be used when working with chemicals in the laboratory

Describes the work practices to be used when working with chemicals as documented in the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan

Implements established work practices when working with chemicals according to the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan

Ensures that staff implement established work practices when working with chemicals in compliance with the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan

Establishes the laboratory's Chemical Hygiene Plan, including specific work practices to be used when working with chemicals

SPH 5.00. Radiological materials:* works safely with radiological materials in the laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SPH 5.01. Radiological materials used in the laboratory

Lists the radiological materials used in the laboratory

Describes the characteristics of the radiological materials used in the laboratory

Manages the inventory of radiological materials to ensure it is complete and updated

Establishes the policies, processes, and procedures for implementing a radiological materials inventory system

SPH 5.02. Hazards associated with the use of radiological materials

Describes the hazards associated with radiological materials used in the laboratory

Recognizes hazards associated with new radiological materials used in the laboratory

Assesses staff knowledge of the hazards associated with radiological materials used in the laboratory

Ensures that staff are skilled in describing and recognizing the hazards associated with radiological materials used in the laboratory

SPH 5.03. Control measures to be used when working with radiological materials

Recognizes control measures to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Implements control measures to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Ensures that staff implement established control measures when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Establishes, in collaboration with radiation safety staff, the control measures to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

SPH 5.04. Work practices to be used when working with radiological materials

Describes work practices to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Implements work practices to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Ensures that staff implement established work practices when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

Establishes, in collaboration with radiation safety staff, the work practices to be used when working with radiological materials in the laboratory

SPH 5.05. Radiation monitoring devices*

Describes monitoring devices for the radiological materials used in the laboratory

Demonstrates operation and use of monitoring devices for the radiological materials used in the laboratory

Ensures the operation and use by staff of radiation monitoring devices

Evaluates use and suitability of monitoring devices for the radiological materials used in the laboratory

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: hazard control*

SHC 1.00. Engineering controls:* implements intervention strategies to control hazards by systematically minimizing, isolating, or removing hazards from the workplace

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 1.01. Engineering controls

Describes engineering controls

Employs engineering controls to eliminate or reduce targeted laboratory hazards

Develops standard operating procedures (SOPs)* and work instructions that incorporate engineering controls

Ensures the implementation of policies, processes, and procedures related to engineering control design, creation, and use

SHC 1.02. Training on engineering controls

Completes required training before using engineering controls

Trains staff on engineering controls

Develops required training for engineering controls

Ensures that training is adequate and appropriate for the engineering controls used in the laboratory

SHC 1.03. Function verification* and maintenance of engineering controls

Describes function verification, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures for engineering controls

Performs function verification, maintenance, and troubleshooting processes and procedures for engineering controls

Manages the procedures for function verification, maintenance, and troubleshooting for engineering controls

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to ensure function verification, maintenance, and troubleshooting for engineering controls

SHC 1.04. Malfunction of engineering controls

Recognizes when engineering controls are compromised, malfunctioning, or nonfunctioning, and the resulting reporting requirements*

Implements procedures to address and report when engineering controls are compromised, malfunctioning, or nonfunctioning

Manages processes and procedures for addressing and reporting situations in which engineering controls are compromised, malfunctioning, or nonfunctioning

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for remediation and reporting of engineering control malfunctions to ensure minimal exposure and release of targeted hazards

SHC 2.00. Safe work practices: designs work practices and procedures to minimize exposure to hazards and to adhere to regulatory requirements

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 2.01. Good housekeeping procedures*

Describes good housekeeping procedures

Practices good housekeeping procedures

Develops processes and procedures related to the establishment and maintenance of good housekeeping

Oversees the implementation of policies, processes, and procedures related to good housekeeping

SHC 2.02. Personal hygiene procedures*

Describes personal hygiene procedures

Complies with personal hygiene procedures

Develops personal hygiene procedures

Ensures staff adherence to personal hygiene policies, processes, and procedures

SHC 2.03. Safety practices and procedures

Describes proper work practices and procedures

Uses proper work practices and procedures

Develops proper work practices and procedures

Ensures staff knowledge and use of proper work practices and procedures

SHC 2.04. Work schedules

Describes how adherence to own scheduled work activities and tasks minimizes exposure

Monitors staff adherence to established work schedules and assigned tasks

Implements procedures to ensure scheduling of work activities and/or workers' tasks minimize staff exposure levels

Designs processes and procedures to ensure scheduling of work activities and/or workers' tasks minimize staff exposure levels

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: hazard control*

SHC 3.00. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):* employs the selection, use, and care of personal protective equipment while being continually mindful of its limitations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 3.01. PPE selection

Describes appropriate PPE and its limitations for jobs assigned

Selects appropriate PPE for jobs assigned

Develops procedures for the appropriate selection of PPE

Ensures staff knowledge of procedures for the appropriate selection of PPE

SHC 3.02. PPE use

Describes specific PPE and its limitations for use with each laboratory procedure

Uses specific PPE for each laboratory procedure

Determines procedures for use of specific PPE

Ensures staff compliance with procedures for use of specific PPE

SHC 3.03. PPE inspection

Describes pre-and postinspection procedures for PPE

Implements pre-and postinspection procedures for PPE

Develops pre-and postinspection procedures for PPE

Ensures staff knowledge of pre-and postinspection procedures for PPE

SHC 4.00. Systems to track hazards: establishes a system to detect and to control or eliminate the underlying causes of hazards or exposures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 4.01. Hazard reporting, tracking, and investigation

Describes the procedures for reporting hazardous conditions

Implements procedures for reporting and tracking all hazards

Develops procedures to report, track and investigate hazards in their workspace

Ensures staff compliance with reporting, tracking, and investigating hazards in the workplace

SHC 5.00. Preventive maintenance: conducts regular maintenance to ensure effective functioning of laboratory equipment* and to extend the life of equipment

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 5.01. Planned maintenance

Performs required preventive maintenance functions

Complies with processes and procedures to ensure equipment continues to function effectively

Implements the processes and procedures to ensure equipment continues to function effectively

Develops the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure equipment continues to function effectively

SHC 5.02. Corrective maintenance

Describes troubleshooting methods to determine whether equipment is malfunctioning and the cause

Complies with processes and procedures to ensure equipment repairs

Implements the processes and procedures to ensure equipment repairs

Develops the policies, processes, and procedures to ensure repairs are conducted in accordance with organizational safety and health procedures

SHC 6.00. Decontamination* and laboratory waste management: establishes a laboratory waste management plan* that adheres to federal, state, and local regulations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 6.01. Decontamination of laboratory waste

Describes procedures for spill cleanup and decontamination of laboratory waste

Implements procedures for spill cleanup and decontamination of laboratory waste

Manages procedures for spill cleanup and decontamination of laboratory waste

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for spill cleanup and decontamination of laboratory waste

SHC 6.02. Segregated waste categorization* and handling

Describes procedures for laboratory waste categorization and handling

Implements procedures for laboratory waste categorization and handling

Manages procedures for laboratory waste categorization and handling

Ensures staff compliance with laboratory waste categorization and handling policies, processes, and procedures

SHC 6.03. Treatment and disposal

Describes procedures for disposal and treatment of laboratory waste

Implements procedures for disposal and treatment of laboratory waste

Manages procedures for disposal and treatment of laboratory waste

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for disposal and treatment of laboratory waste

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: hazard control*

SHC 6.00. Decontamination* and laboratory waste management: establishes a laboratory waste management plan* that adheres to federal, state, and local regulations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SHC 6.04. Waste reduction

Describes procedures for laboratory waste reduction

Implements procedures for laboratory waste reduction

Manages procedures for laboratory waste reduction

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for laboratory waste reduction

SHC 6.05. Regulated waste* access

Describes procedures for preventing public access to regulated waste

Implements procedures for preventing public access to regulated waste

Manages procedures for preventing public access to regulated waste

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for preventing public access to regulated waste

SHC 6.06. Waste management issues and problems

Describes procedures for reporting and responding to issues or problems regarding laboratory waste management

Implements procedures for reporting and responding to issues or problems regarding laboratory waste management

Develops procedures to ensure that issues or problems regarding laboratory waste management are reported and addressed

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures to address laboratory waste management issues or problems

SHC 6.07. Monitoring and evaluation

Describes procedures for monitoring the laboratory waste management plan

Implements procedures for monitoring the laboratory waste management plan

Develops procedures for monitoring the laboratory waste management plan

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for monitoring the laboratory waste management plan

Safety subdomain: administrative controls*

SAC 1.00. Safety program* management: manages the laboratory safety program

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SAC 1.01. Safety program

Complies with the safety program requirements for the jobs performed

Ensures staff compliance with safety program requirements

Implements the safety program and related training programs

Ensures that comprehensive safety policies, processes, and procedures are developed as part of the safety program

SAC 1.02. Program audits

Participates in audits of the safety program

Conducts audits of the safety program

Designs safety program audits

Evaluates the safety program audit results to identify problem areas

SAC 1.03. Safety inspections

Explains the importance of safety inspections

Participates in safety inspections

Conducts safety inspections

Ensures staff compliance with safety inspections

SAC 1.04. Program evaluation

Provides feedback on the safety program

Collects data relating to the effectiveness of the safety program

Prepares evaluation reports for the safety program

Designs evaluation reports for the safety program

SAC 2.00. Guideline and regulation compliance: ensures staff compliance with guidelines and regulations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SAC 2.01. Regulatory requirements and guidelines

Describes current regulatory requirements and guidelines governing the safe performance of laboratory procedures

Complies with current regulatory requirements and guidelines governing the safe performance of laboratory procedures

Instructs staff on current regulatory requirements and guidelines governing the safe performance of laboratory procedures

Ensures staff compliance with current regulatory requirements and guidelines governing the safe performance of laboratory procedures

SAC 2.02. Institutional safety committees*

Describes institutional safety committees

Complies with institutional safety committee requirements

Participates in a leadership role on institutional safety committees

Ensures staff compliance with institutional safety committee requirements

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: administrative controls*

SAC 3.00. Risk management: manages risks through systematic practices to evaluate, minimize, or eliminate them

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SAC 3.01. Risk assessment†

Describes the risk assessment process

Implements control measures identified in risk assessments

Manages the risk assessment process

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to risk assessment to ensure controls are appropriate for activities, agents and materials used in laboratory

SAC 3.02. Incident* reporting

Reports any incidents, including near-misses

Reviews reports of incidents to identify root causes and problems

Conducts routine monitoring of staff compliance regarding incident reporting

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for reporting and performing root-cause analyses of incidents

SAC 4.00. Occupational health and medical surveillance: complies with occupational health and medical surveillance policies

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SAC 4.01. Vaccination program

Describes the organization's vaccination program

Identifies staff eligible to participate in the vaccination program

Monitors staff compliance with the vaccination program

Designs the vaccination program based on exposure risks and regulatory requirements

SAC 4.02. Medical surveillance program*

Describes the organization's medical surveillance program

Identifies staff eligible to participate in the medical surveillance program

Monitors staff compliance with the medical surveillance program

Designs the medical surveillance program based on risks encountered and regulatory requirements

SAC 4.03. Exposure monitoring*

Describes exposure monitoring procedures

Complies with exposure monitoring procedures

Ensures staff compliance with exposure monitoring policies and processes

Develops the exposure monitoring policies and processes based on risks encountered and regulatory requirements

SAC 4.04. Occupational incidents

Identifies the process to obtain medical services after an occupational incident

Complies with organizational requirements and healthcare provider treatment plans pertaining to an occupational incident

Prepares summary of occupational incidents

Develops occupational incident response plan* including regular review and revisions following an occupational incident

Safety subdomain: communication and training

SCT 1.00. Hazard communication:* promotes safety through effective hazard communication

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SCT 1.01. Safety signage*

Describes safety signage and documentation as well as how signage is used to convey information

Adheres to information and directives in safety signage and documents*

Evaluates safety signage and document placement and usage

Ensures staff compliance with safety signage and documents

SCT 1.02. Safety communication tools

Describes a variety of communication tools and techniques promoting the work practices employed in own area of responsibility

Employs a variety of communication tools and techniques promoting the work practices employed in own area of responsibility

Implements a variety of communication tools and techniques for the promotion of safe work practices

Ensures a variety of communication tools and techniques promoting work practices are employed in their area of responsibility

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: communication and training

SCT 1.00. Hazard communication:* promotes safety through effective hazard communication

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SCT 1.03. Labeling

Describes labeling of samples* and containers

Adheres to procedures for labeling of samples and containers

Implements procedures to ensure staff compliance with regulatory requirements for labeling of samples and containers

Ensures staff compliance with regulatory requirements for labeling of samples and containers

SCT 1.04. Signals and alarms

Recognizes signals and alarms in areas assigned

Explains signals and alarms in the laboratory facility

Assesses staff knowledge of signals and alarms

Ensures the implementation of all signals and alarms

SCT 2.00. Safety training: ensures that safety training needs are identified and training solutions are implemented to meet performance and productivity goals

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SCT 2.01. Safety training

Complies with requirements to obtain safety training

Provides training on the work practices and techniques required for staff to safely perform their job duties

Assesses safety training needs and the impact of safety training

Ensures development and implementation of safety training for all staff

SCT 2.02. Training documentation

Describes requirements for documenting safety training

Adheres to procedures for recording safety training of staff

Implements procedures for documenting staff safety training

Develops policies, processes, and procedures for documentation and verification of staff training records*

Safety subdomain: documents and records

SDR 1.00. Documents and record keeping: ensures staff compliance with agency quality management system (QMS)* and statutory, regulatory, accreditation,* and licensing* requirements for documentation and recordkeeping in relation to the health and safety management systems

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SDR 1.01. Safety document management

Describes procedures for safety document management

Adheres to procedures for safety document management

Manages safety document management process

Designs the safety document management system

SDR 1.02. Safety document access

Identifies any restricted or confidential safety documents

Ensures restricted or confidential safety documents are not disclosed

Implements processes and procedures for maintaining confidentiality* of internally and externally derived safety information

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for document control and access that adhere to regulatory and accreditation requirements

SDR 1.03. Occupational injuries and illnesses documentation

Describes responsibilities for documenting Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)* recordable occupational injuries and illnesses

Complies with documentation procedures for OSHA-recordable occupational injuries and illnesses

Ensures staff compliance with reporting of OSHA-recordable occupational injuries and illnesses

Designs policies, processes, and procedures to ensure reporting for OSHA-recordable occupational injuries and illnesses

SDR 1.04. Medical surveillance documentation

Describes responsibilities in complying with established medical surveillance recordkeeping procedures

Complies with established medical surveillance documentation and recordkeeping procedures

Implements processes and procedures for medical surveillance documentation

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for medical surveillance documentation

TABLE 9. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Safety domain

Safety subdomain: documents and records

SDR 1.00. Documents and record keeping: ensures staff compliance with agency quality management system (QMS)* and statutory, regulatory, accreditation,* and licensing* requirements for documentation and recordkeeping in relation to the health and safety management systems

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SDR 1.05. Exposure monitoring documentation

Describes the procedures for documenting exposure monitoring

Adheres to procedures for documenting exposure monitoring

Implements procedures for documentation and retention of exposure monitoring information as required by regulations

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for documentation and retention of exposure monitoring information as required by regulations

SDR 1.06. Safety inspection documentation

Describes safety inspection documentation

Complies with procedures for safety inspection documentation

Develops procedures for safety inspection documentation

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for safety inspection documentation

SDR 1.07. Hazardous waste documentation

Describes procedures for documenting the handling and transport of hazardous waste

Complies with procedures for documenting the handling and transport of hazardous waste

Develops procedures for documenting the handling and transport of hazardous waste

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for documenting the handling and transport of hazardous waste

SDR 1.08. Safety reports to staff members

Reads safety reports

Complies with recommendations and mandates of safety reports

Ensures staff compliance to recommendations and mandates made in safety reports

Designs policies, processes, and procedures ensuring staff compliance to recommendations and mandates made in safety reports

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† The evaluation of the probability and consequences of exposure to a given hazard, with the intent to reduce the risk by establishing the appropriate hazard controls to be used.

TABLE 10. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Surveillance domain

SRV 1.00. Function of surveillance: recognizes the function of laboratory testing in surveillance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 1.01. Function of laboratory surveillance

Describes the importance of public health laboratory surveillance testing

Explains the integration of public health laboratory testing into broader surveillance programs

Ensures selected laboratory testing and reporting procedures* are aligned with surveillance activities and program requirements*

Oversees the policies,* processes,* and procedures that ensure laboratory data will support public health surveillance activity and program requirements

SRV 2.00. Notification rules and regulations: complies with national and jurisdictional rules and regulations regarding notifiable results*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 2.01. Notification

Describes notification rules and regulations

Reports data to laboratory management

Manages the approval and communication of public health surveillance test results

Contributes to determination of national, state, and local notification conditions

SRV 3.00. Surveillance testing: performs surveillance testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 3.01. Surveillance testing systems

Describes test sample* collection, storage, and analytical requirements

Identifies the functional requirements of surveillance testing protocols†

Creates surveillance testing protocols that include functional requirements

Directs development and modifications to surveillance testing systems based on jurisdictional guidance and analytical capabilities

TABLE 10. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Surveillance domain

SRV 3.00. Surveillance testing: performs surveillance testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 3.02. Surveillance testing workflow§

Describes test sample collection, storage, and analytical method workflows

Employs established testing workflow and test methods for the surveillance target requirements

Customizes testing workflow policies and procedures to the surveillance target requirements

Directs development and modifications to surveillance testing system workflows

SRV 3.03. Surveillance testing

Tests samples for surveillance

Participates in performance evaluation of surveillance test methods and testing capabilities

Applies technical knowledge to develop test methods and testing capabilities used in surveillance

Oversees the selection and creation of public health surveillance tests

SRV 3.04. Outbreak* or exposure event* detection

Describes at least one definition of an outbreak or exposure event

Informs supervisor of potential outbreak or exposure event

Reports potential outbreak or exposure events to key stakeholders

Contributes to the modification of outbreak or exposure event recognition processes or definitions

SRV 3.05. Sample collection for outbreak or exposure events

Receives outbreak or exposure event samples for testing

Ensures that outbreak or exposure event samples meet sample collection criteria

Collaborates with key stakeholders to determine the best samples to collect

Contributes to sample collection guidelines for outbreak or exposure event scenarios

SRV 3.06. Testing for outbreak or exposure events

Follows sample prioritization schema for testing during an outbreak or exposure event

Ensures that outbreak or exposure event samples are prioritized according to schema

Reports outbreak or exposure event testing results to key stakeholders

Represents the laboratory in After Action Reviews* for outbreak or exposure events

SRV 4.00. Response to critical surveillance event:* responds to critical surveillance events

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 4.01. Critical event planning

Describes critical event response processes and procedures related to surveillance

Applies critical event processes and procedures related to surveillance

Evaluates plans and After Action Review findings following critical events

Modifies the policies, processes, and procedures for critical surveillance events based on results of exercises or actual events

SRV 4.02. Critical event response

Describes own critical event response duties related to surveillance

Manages resources required to respond to critical events

Implements the critical event response plan

Oversees the activation and termination of the critical event response plan

SRV 4.03. Coordination of response

Describes the need to coordinate testing priorities

Communicates testing priorities to staff and laboratory management

Coordinates testing activities during critical events to align with identified testing priorities

Ensures implementation of response plans during critical events

SRV 4.04. New testing capabilities

Identifies when current testing capabilities do not exist to test an analyte or organism

Applies technical knowledge to implement new testing capabilities

Develops plans to address testing capabilities for a specific new organism or analyte during critical surveillance events

Determines the overall strategy for development of new testing capabilities during critical surveillance events

TABLE 10. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Surveillance domain

SRV 5.00. Information for surveillance: recognizes vital information needed for surveillance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 5.01. Demographic information

Enters demographic information that is necessary to carry out surveillance testing activities

Communicates the required demographic information to submitters

Ensures submission of crucial demographic information by submitters

Determines demographic information fields required in informatics systems, requisition forms, and reports

SRV 5.02. Sample information

Enters sample information that is necessary to carry out surveillance testing activities

Monitors the capture of sample information

Ensures collection of sample information

Determines policies, processes, and procedures for sample information collection based on jurisdictional requirements and guidelines

SRV 6.00. Data analysis: analyzes data from surveillance testing systems

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 6.01. Data analysis

Describes surveillance data analysis methods

Analyses laboratory surveillance data

Interprets laboratory surveillance data

Develops standards for data analysis and for interpretation of laboratory surveillance data

SRV 7.00. Data management: manages public health surveillance data using secure data management systems

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 7.01. Data collection

Conducts data entry

Determines validity and reliability of data collection instruments and methods

Ensures data collection system adheres to laboratory, local, and national standards

Coordinates modifications to data collection systems using state and national guidance and methods

SRV 7.02. Data storage and retrieval

Uses secure and stable data storage and retrieval systems

Ensures that the design of storage and retrieval databases include the necessary variables and data dictionary

Develops secure and stable data storage and retrieval systems, including creating new variables as necessary to support analysis of data

Develops standards for secure and stable data storage and retrieval

SRV 8.00. Recognition of significant results: recognizes significant results in surveillance data

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 8.01. Significant values and results

Adheres to policies and procedures to verify significant results

Reports significant results with interpretation to laboratory management and customers*

Monitors significant results to ensure staff compliance with policies for reporting

Develops plans with customers to identify significant results in the population or environment

SRV 8.02. Trends in data

Provides trend results to laboratory management

Identifies trends in surveillance data

Explains trends in surveillance data to laboratory management and customers

Evaluates testing capabilities based on trend data to address customer needs and public health issues

TABLE 10. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Surveillance domain

SRV 9.00. Partnerships: maintains partnerships to conduct surveillance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 9.01. Multidisciplinary teamwork

Communicates approved laboratory information to other institutions

Implements the multi-disciplinary surveillance communication plan

Manages the multi-disciplinary surveillance communication plan

Develops a multi-disciplinary surveillance communication plan

SRV 9.02. Education and feedback for partners

Explains sample requirements and testing procedures

Guides partners in selection of laboratory methods, data collection, and evaluation

Evaluates effectiveness and efficiency of surveillance processes and procedures between laboratory and partners

Develops surveillance policies, processes, and procedures with partners

SRV 10.00. Dissemination of data: disseminates data relevant to audience

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

SRV 10.01. Presentation of surveillance and monitoring data

Describes importance and use of oral and written communication in presenting surveillance and monitoring data

Reports surveillance and monitoring data orally or in writing to laboratory management and epidemiologists

Explains surveillance and monitoring data orally or in writing to external stakeholders

Synthesizes surveillance and monitoring data orally and in writing for national and international audiences for policy decision-making purposes

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† A detailed plan for conducting a scientific procedure.

§ Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.


TABLE 11. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 1.00. Laboratory test request and sample* receiving: manages sample receiving and the processing of laboratory test requests

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 1.01. Sample receiving and accessioning

Describes electronic modules* used to log in samples with corresponding electronic requests

Verifies electronic accessioning activities to ensure completeness and accuracy

Evaluates the electronic modules needed for sample receiving and accessioning

Designs log-in screens to automate sample receiving and accessioning and to automate processing of electronic test request messages

INF 1.02. Electronic data exchange regarding test requests

Describes electronic modules used to receive data on samples using one or more standard message types*

Performs oversight of entered data to ensure accurate mapping of client data to comparable fields in electronic systems

Manages daily electronic data exchange activities regarding test requests to ensure efficient operations and resolution of root causes of errors

Designs systems to automate electronic test orders and work processes*

INF 1.03. Vocabulary standards*

Lists local codes and standardized codes

Manages use of vocabulary standards across parties

Evaluates use of vocabulary standards for identification of missing or misidentified codes

Develops codes for generation of messages using multiple standardized vocabulary formats and integration of local and new codes and vocabulary standards

INF 1.04. Test orders

Describes processes and procedures* for test orders

Verifies the electronic assignment of tests to specific laboratory programs*

Evaluates the need for new test orders and associated meta data

Designs workflows† and modules to automate assignment of test orders to specific laboratory programs

INF 1.05. Hardware to promote sample handling efficiency

Uses basic hardware, scanners, and robotics

Troubleshoots installation and operation of basic automation hardware

Configures a variety of complex hardware to ensure proper operation

Integrates use of new technologies for sample accessioning

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 1.00. Laboratory test request and sample* receiving: manages sample receiving and the processing of laboratory test requests

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 1.06. Capture of auxiliary data

Describes required identifiers and core data elements

Verifies the routine entry of metadata and pass-through auxiliary data

Manages problem resolution concerning entry of metadata and auxiliary data

Designs modules to automate the entry of auxiliary data, the identification of core data elements, and the inclusion of new data elements

INF 2.00. Test preparation, Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)* processing, test results recording and verification: manages systems for electronic test preparation, LIMS processing, and test results recording and verification

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 2.01. Test preparation and receipt of samples

Describes use of predefined electronic modules to assign samples or batches* of samples to processes in the laboratory

Verifies the assignment of samples to individual test processes or test processing combinations

Manages prioritization for preparation and handling of samples

Designs systems to automate the electronic management of pre-examination* operations on samples received individually or in batch

INF 2.02. Electronic test requests from submitters

Describes how to use electronic modules to manage individual or batches of samples from submitters

Verifies the receipt of samples and associated electronic test requests from submitters

Ensures that valid values and test codes are properly harmonized between submitters and receiving laboratory

Designs systems to automate the electronic management of test requests from submitters

INF 2.03. LIMS tracking of testing processes and associated sample sources

Describes how to use electronic modules to track testing processes and associated sample sources

Verifies effectiveness of ongoing sample source tracking and submitter's monitoring efforts

Evaluates the LIMS tracking of testing processes and associated sample sources

Designs systems to automate and manage the tracking of testing processes and associated sample sources

INF 2.04. Test results recording

Describes electronic modules, vocabulary, and usage for specific test results

Populates test results data using pre-existing modules

Troubleshoots automated test results data capture utilities

Designs analytical sequences for instrument integration and data capture utilities to automate data transfer from instruments

INF 2.05. Data review

Describes preparation of data summaries that are used for review processes

Verifies data and results using predefined progress reports

Evaluates the need for new tracking reports to facilitate data review

Develops workflows and utilities to ensure that needed data are supplied

INF 2.06. Data verification

Explains test result choices that exist for specific test requests

Verifies that the electronic transfer of quality assurance (QA)* and quality control (QC)* data* occurs to ensure that test results meet procedural requirements* and auto-assignment

Institutes rules to ensure that laboratory programs have tools to manage data verification processes

Designs the processes for automating data verification and associating QA and QC data with individual sample tests and batches before reporting

INF 2.07. Auto-assignment of reflex* or repeat testing

Describes the electronic processes that define auto-assignment of reflex or repeat testing

Verifies that auto-assignment of reflex or repeat testing is performed

Evaluates the processes for auto-assignment of reflex or repeat testing

Develops code for design and configuration of processes for automating the assignment of reflex or repeat testing

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 3.00. Report preparation and distribution: manages test result report creation and distribution

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 3.01. Processing of data for reports

Describes electronic modules used to print data and information* in automated reports

Verifies analytical data, information, and reports

Appraises solutions for data selection for nonroutine reports and for research purposes

Constructs queries for ad hoc data searches

INF 3.02. Report production

Describes use of electronic modules to generate automated and manual reports or test results

Selects results for reporting using standardized predefined report formats

Evaluates report production processes

Develops code to query and report laboratory data

INF 3.03. Electronic reporting

Sends predefined reports via electronic reporting formats

Reports test results using predefined electronic messages that meet agreed-upon standards

Manages the tracking and needs assessment* of electronic reporting of data

Develops reports that contain electronic messages for test results using agreed-upon standards and vocabulary for message creation and transport

INF 3.04. Management of reports

Prints predefined reports according to policies*

Verifies that reports adhere to submitters' data exchange format requirements for electronic results submittal and reporting

Modifies noncomplex electronic formats to meet customer* requirements

Develops automated processes to manage reporting of results

INF 4.00. Laboratory test scheduling: manages laboratory test scheduling

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 4.01. Scheduling documents*

Prints existing worksheets, work lists, and test scheduling documents

Prioritizes test scheduling to resolve conflicts and turnaround time

Develops work lists, worksheets, and test scheduling documents

Develops processes for integration of documents to link test orders with test results

INF 4.02. Management of test schedules

Enters data to remove or restore completed test requests

Uses specific data elements associated with process improvement to manage test schedules

Evaluates the workflow for process improvement opportunities

Develops codes to automate the creation of test status reports and workflows

INF 4.03. Prioritization of tests

Logs in samples according to predefined generic priorities

Manages test requests using laboratory-specified criteria

Organizes specific data elements associated with process improvement indicators* to prioritize test scheduling

Develops systems to electronically generate a real-time test schedule

INF 5.00. Prescheduled testing: manages prescheduled testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 5.01. Prescheduling

Describes electronic modules for receipt and processing of pre-scheduled samples and kit distribution

Manages scheduling of single or recurring test requests

Troubleshoots electronic systems to preschedule tests and to predict and adjust workload

Develop automated processes to manage the receipt and processing of pre-scheduled samples, recurring test requests, and kit distribution

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 6.00. Sample tracking and chain of custody:* manages the tracking of physical samples and chain of custody

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 6.01. Tracking samples at accessioning

Uses predefined electronic modules to enter data relevant to track all steps in the sample lifecycle*

Assigns identifiers to samples

Evaluates automated modules that verify system operations regarding tracking

Develops systems to determine sample tracking and location

INF 6.02. Chain of custody

Uses predefined modules to track and document custody of the sample from receipt to disposal or return to submitter

Ensures staff compliance with chain of custody policies and procedures

Manages electronic tracking data by validating that chain of custody is complete and documented

Develops systems to electronically automate the communication of chain of custody data tracking to users and submitters

INF 6.03. Chain of custody data elements

Uses predefined modules to link demographic data with data on chain of custody, sample appropriateness,* sample handling, and elements of sample analyst location, time, and defined storage parameters

Verifies that predefined modules allow creation, tracking, and maintenance of sample and aliquot hierarchy through the LIMS throughout the laboratory

Evaluates existing and future modules for tracking data elements

Develops systems to integrate data elements into automated chain of custody management

INF 6.04. Tracking samples in analytical processes

Uses predefined modules to track samples assigned to laboratory programs during analytical processes

Verifies the routine tracking of aliquots, instrument sequence numbers, and work lists

Creates work lists, worksheets, and workgroups to improve the tracking of samples

Develops modules to incorporate factors that affect automated assignment of samples to work lists and integration of sample tracking into routine laboratory functions

INF 7.00. Media, reagents, and controls: manages the manufacturing and inventory of media, reagents, and controls electronically

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 7.01. Supplies tracking

Applies predeveloped electronic modules to order supplies and control inventory

Verifies the tracking, management, and maintenance of inventory

Determines the availability and cost-effectiveness of in-house manufacturing and use of supplies

Designs code or scripts to automate activities to track, order, and manage inventory

INF 7.02. Inventory production

Performs data entry into existing electronic modules to document production of inventory

Validates the production of inventory

Evaluates data to improve the current and future states of inventory production

Writes code or scripts to automate inventory control

INF 7.03. Manufacturing formulations

Accesses manufacturing formulations electronically

Maintains the database of manufacturing formulations

Validates manufacturing formulations and SOPs

Develops workflows for manufacturing formulations

INF 7.04. Supply orders and vendors

Enters inventory order data into electronic order systems

Verifies the use of codes and parameters necessary to automate electronic orders of supplies

Manages order frequency and timetables

Develops workflows to automate the ordering of supplies from vendors

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 8.00. Data exchange and interoperability: manages the electronic exchange of laboratory data with data partners

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 8.01. Laboratory data collection

Explains data elements and formats necessary for data collection and exchange

Identifies analytical data and results and the exchange of this information using predefined modules

Develops automated interfaces to export data from instruments to electronic storage

Configures modules to automate the export of analytical data to electronic storage

INF 8.02. Electronic messaging

Describes use of predefined modules to deliver predefined messages to partners

Performs predefined queries of analytical data for electronic messaging

Develops ad hoc queries for electronic messaging

Maps electronic data to form messages consistent with client message structure, format, and vocabulary for export

INF 8.03. Electronic messaging transport

Describes predefined electronic messaging transport protocols§

Sends automated electronic results to partners according to established electronic messaging transport protocols

Determines secure electronic messaging transport protocols

Ensures the use of secure electronic messaging transport protocols

INF 8.04. Message vocabulary

Describes vocabulary necessary for data exchange

Verifies local codes are pre-mapped to nationally accepted standard codes for test requests and test results

Evaluates processes that automate the linking of local and national codes

Automates the mapping of test codes and results to all standardized notifiable diseases and conditions

INF 8.05. Test order creation

Describes standard test order vocabulary

Communicates test orders with partners using predefined modules

Manages the automation of test orders in collaboration with partners

Develops protocols for automated electronic test order creation

INF 8.06. Test order receipt and notification

Describes standard test order receipt and notification vocabulary

Processes test orders received from partners using predefined modules

Manages the automation of test order receipts and notification in collaboration with partners

Develops protocols for electronic test order receipts and notification

INF 8.07. Test results reporting

Describes standard test results vocabulary

Communicates test results with partners using predefined modules

Manages the automation of test results reporting in collaboration with partners

Develops protocols for electronic test order results reporting

INF 8.08. Test results acknowledgment

Describes test results receipt acknowledgment

Verifies test results receipt with partners using predefined modules

Manages the automation of test results receipts in collaboration with partners

Develops protocols for electronic test results receipts

INF 8.09. Exchange networks

Describes exchange networks

Performs routine data exchange using predefined modules

Troubleshoots exchange network interfacing

Manages the workflow and operation of exchange networks according to information exchange standards

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 9.00. Statistical analysis and surveillance: generates statistical analyses of analytical results for public health surveillance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 9.01. Meta data and demographic data

Enters meta data and demographic data associated with laboratory testing

Verifies the collection and editing of meta data and demographic data using predefined modules

Ensures the ability to capture, retrieve, and link meta data and demographic data associated with laboratory testing

Develops modules and workflows to electronically capture, retrieve, and link meta data and demographic data associated with laboratory testing

INF 9.02. Statistical analysis

Explains how automated statistical evaluation tools link meta data and demographic data within reports

Performs predefined queries on collected data for predefined statistical analyses to link meta data and demographic data within reports

Develops ad hoc queries to collect extracts of data for unique statistical analyses to link meta data and demographic data within reports

Writes code or procedure code for third-party software to automate the querying and reporting of statistical data to link meta data and demographic data within reports

INF 9.03. Laboratory performance analyses

Describes the production of laboratory performance reports

Provides reporting and evaluation of laboratory program performance data using predefined reports

Develops ad hoc statistical analyses to evaluate key performance indicators

Develops workflows and automation tools to ensure the implementation of laboratory performance-based analyses

INF 9.04. Spatial data

Describes modules for entering geographic information system (GIS) data

Uses predefined tools to integrate GIS data with laboratory testing results and with meta and demographic data

Evaluates the availability of validated tools to integrate GIS data with laboratory testing results and with meta and demographic data

Develops modules for LIMS-associated or third-party software to integrate GIS data with laboratory testing results and with meta and demographic data

INF 10.00. Billing for laboratory services: manages billing for laboratory services

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 10.01. Billing data

Links existing billing code(s) with associated laboratory services at time of accessioning

Troubleshoots billing data associated with laboratory services

Evaluates the automated capability to link billing data with laboratory services

Develops workflows and modules to manage the collection of financial data

INF 10.02. Accounts receivable*

Enters billing data in an accounts receivable program

Performs advanced functions of automated electronic billing and linking of laboratory services to accounts receivable systems

Manages accounts receivable systems regarding billing of services rendered

Develops workflows and modules to automate the integration of billing information with accounts receivable software and financial services

INF 10.03. Cost of testing and other laboratory services

Identifies accounting codes assigned for laboratory services rendered

Verifies that correct accounting codes are consistent with the cost of services and are linked to laboratory services rendered

Manages accounts for cost of laboratory services to individual customers

Develops workflows and modules to track the cost of laboratory services with customers and to manage the accounts receivable system

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 10.00. Billing for laboratory services: manages billing for laboratory services

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 10.04. Integration of laboratory billing with enterprisewide billing

Describes billing functions for multiple systems that handle billing of laboratory services

Verifies that accounting of laboratory services is being collected from disparate systems

Evaluates centralized functionality regarding an enterprise-wide capability to account for costs

Develops workflows and systems to consolidate cross-enterprise billing and accounting for laboratory services

INF 10.05. Budgeting*

Describes billing modules

Performs routine reporting of billing and revenue data for fiscal analyses

Generates detailed budgetary summaries of billing data

Develops systems to link billing data for budgeting and trend analysis

INF 11.00. Contract* and grant* management: manages grants and contractual instruments*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 11.01. Document management systems

Describes centralized electronic document management systems that track and store grants, contractual instruments, and project management* materials

Verifies the entry and timeliness of laboratory program deliverables into document management systems

Evaluates document management systems to recommend improvements and efficiency and to meet contractual and grant obligations

Develops enterprise-wide workflows and communications to ensure an automated and secure document management system for grants and contractual instruments

INF 11.02. Contractual instruments

Describes informatics support available to laboratory through contractual instruments

Verifies the use of existing contractual instruments

Manages contractual instruments

Creates contractual instruments with partners to ensure informatics and information technology (IT) needs are captured

INF 11.03. Activity tracking

Describes informatics contractual and grant deliverables

Tracks activities and deliverables of grants and contractual instruments using predefined electronic modules

Evaluates the laboratory's ability to track delivery of individual informatics components related to budgetary, personnel, legal, and laboratory procedures and processes

Develops systems to define, organize, monitor, and track the activities of grants and contractual instruments with outside parties using electronic processes

INF 11.04. Enterprise-wide systems

Describes contractual informatics instruments relevant to the enterprise

Explains contractual instruments developed for individual laboratory programs for enterprise management

Evaluates informatics contractual instruments with outside parties using electronic documentation processes

Develops an enterprise-wide approach to information systems implementation

INF 12.00. Training, education, and resource management: manages training, education, and information resources

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 12.01. Electronic master record*

Accesses electronic information on staff training, education, and capabilities

Verifies that electronic documentation of training, education, and management of educational resources is up-to-date

Evaluates that electronic documentation of training, education, and related information meets operational requirements

Develops modules to ensure electronic content, access, and security exist to meet the educational needs of the laboratory

INF 12.02. Resource summaries

Lists available electronic reports that summarize laboratory resources, including staff

Verifies that electronic reports regarding laboratory resources are accurate and complete

Evaluates the need for additional and revised reports on laboratory resources

Develops modules to ensure electronic summary reports of laboratory resources are available

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 12.00. Training, education, and resource management: manages training, education, and information resources

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 12.03. Workforce development

Describes informatics systems for tracking documented staff needs and knowledge gained from training opportunities

Verifies that informatics processes remain up-to-date and demonstrate the acquired informatics capabilities of staff

Evaluates laboratory informatics needs to ensure the existence of resources and avenues to support staff education and training

Develops informatics programs to ensure that staff education and training is aligned with the business needs and directions for laboratory services and the professional growth of staff

INF 12.04. Training activities for external partners

Describes existing electronic documentation on trainings offered to external partners

Verifies electronic documentation on training activities for external partners are accurate and complete

Evaluates electronic training activities for external partners to ensure they meet current and future requirements

Develops electronic training materials and associated documentation for external partners

INF 12.05. Knowledge management (KM)*

Describes own role(s) in supporting the collective knowledge within a laboratory program

Verifies the participation and integration of program staff to ensure electronic KM within the organization

Evaluates the effectiveness of electronic KM practices organizationally

Develops a strategy for the creation, collection, and management of KM performance measures electronically

INF 12.06. Lifecycle management strategy* for IT investments

Describes laboratory IT project management resources

Ensures the use of IT project management resources

Evaluates staff compliance with a comprehensive lifecycle management strategy for IT investments

Develops a comprehensive laboratory IT lifecycle management strategy

INF 12.07. Informatics communication strategy

Describes the strategy for communicating with internal and external partners regarding informatics capabilities and resourcing priorities

Ensures the implementation of the communication strategy

Evaluates staff compliance with the communication strategy

Develops a strategy for communication of informatics capabilities and resourcing priorities to internal and external partners

INF 13.00. Laboratory certifications,* accreditations,* and licensing:* ensures adherence to local, state, and federal certification, accreditation, and licensing requirements

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 13.01. Certification, accreditation, and licensing (CAL) compliance

Explains applicable CAL electronic data requirements related to work area

Verifies the implementation of predefined data processing standards and form management associated with CAL for a laboratory program

Evaluates electronic data processing standards in order to ensure laboratory adherence to current and new CAL requirements

Develops workflows and modules to automate laboratory adherence to data processing standards associated with CAL

INF 13.02. External certification

Enters data into predefined modules

Verifies performance of predefined electronic systems regarding external certifications

Evaluates current capabilities to manage external certifications and future needs

Develops electronic modules to automate the management of external certifications

INF 13.03. Privacy and security

Describes electronic standards for own job classification related to the privacy and security of protected information*

Ensures that individual laboratory programs adhere to electronic security and privacy standards

Evaluates individual electronic security and privacy standards that the laboratory must meet

Develops workflows and modules to ensure electronic systems meet security and privacy standards and adhere to regulatory requirements

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 14.00. Customer relationship management: manages customer relationships

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

14.01. Tracking customer and staff feedback

Describes predefined modules to record customer and staff feedback

Verifies the implementation of predefined modules to record customer and staff feedback

Evaluates current and future needs to handle customer relationships and perform ad hoc queries to improve regulatory compliance and business management

Develops workflow and modules that automate the collection of data to track and to perform ad hoc queries and reporting of customer and staff feedback

INF 14.02. Tracking laboratory errors and information requests

Describes predefined modules to record laboratory errors and information requests

Verifies the implementation of predefined modules to record laboratory errors and information requests

Evaluates current and future needs to track and perform ad hoc queries on laboratory errors and information requests

Develops workflow and modules that automate the collection of data to track and to perform ad hoc queries and reporting of laboratory errors and information requests

INF 14.03. Tracking corrective actions and reports

Describes predefined modules that summarize reporting and corrective actions

Verifies the implementation of predefined modules to summarize corrective actions and generate reports

Evaluates current and future needs to track, perform ad hoc queries, and provide reports regarding corrective actions

Develops workflow and modules that automate the collection of data to track and to perform ad hoc queries and reporting of correction actions

INF 15.00. QC and QA management: manages quality control and quality assurance processes

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 15.01. QC data associated with sample results

Describes predefined modules that collect QC data associated with sample results

Verifies the electronic set-up, extraction, and transmission of QC data using predefined modules and data capture utilities for automated instruments

Evaluates automated systems for QC data set up, extraction, and transmission

Develops automated processes for QC data set up, extraction, and transmission

INF 15.02. Data review and validation

Lists QC data that are collected electronically to support validation of test results

Performs review and validation of data

Validates final data prior to release to customers using configurable rules-based functionality

Develops workflows and modules to assist in automating the validation of test results

INF 15.03. Data trending

Enters QC data to support tracking, trending, and analysis of method accuracy and precision

Verifies the use of automated software to support analysis of QC data related to tracking, trending, and analysis of method accuracy and precision

Evaluates automated tracking, trending, and analysis of method accuracy and precision

Develops the workflows and automation processes to support automated tracking, trending, and analysis of method accuracy and precision

INF 15.04. QC reporting

Uses predefined modules to produce electronic and paper results that include QC data associated with test runs

Verifies the reporting and evaluation of QC data associated with analytical testing using predefined modules

Evaluates automated reporting of QC data associated with analytical batches

Develops reports that meet method requirements and customer needs to capture and deliver QC data in multiple formats and messages

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 15.00. QC and QA management: manages quality control and quality assurance processes

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 15.05. QA and quality management systems (QMS)*

Describes organizational structure, policies, processes, procedures, and resources that address QA related to informatics activities

Performs day-to-day oversight of organizational structure, policies, processes, procedures, and resources that address QA- and QMS-related to informatics activities

Evaluates organizational structure, policies, processes, procedures, and resources that address QA- and QMS-related to informatics activities

Develops informatics workflows and the organizational structure, policies, processes, procedures, and resources to address QMS and QA related to informatics activities

INF 15.06. Responses to QC data

Describes data elements needed to support automated auto-alerts, qualifiers, or triggering of responses to QC data

Verifies that data to support auto-alerts, qualifiers, or triggering of responses to QC data are associated with test results

Validates data elements using configurable rules-based functionality to provide auto- alerts, qualifiers, or triggering of responses to QC data

Develops automated workflows to provide auto-alerts, qualifiers, and triggering of responses to QC data

INF 16.00. Laboratory safety and accident investigation: manages laboratory safety and accident investigations

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 16.01. Hazardous materials* management

Describes electronic data entry and access to hazardous material locations, safety data sheets (SDS),* procedures, disposal records* current practice standards, and master records

Verifies the central management of hazardous materials using predefined electronic modules for reporting and tracking

Evaluates the electronic, centralized management of hazardous materials

Develops an electronic, centralized system to manage hazardous materials

INF 16.02. Incident* tracking

Describes predefined modules to track incidents

Ensures staff compliance with electronic reporting of laboratory safety activities and accident investigations

Manages laboratory electronic safety and accident investigation processes and procedures

Develops electronic workflows, processes, and procedures to track and manage safety and accident investigations

INF 16.03. Select agent* management

Describes predefined modules related to the federal Select Agent Program* and registry

Ensures staff compliance with regulations associated with the federal Select Agent Program and registry

Evaluates automated processes to adhere to the federal Select Agent Program and registry

Develops electronic modules that adhere to the federal Select Agent Program and registry

INF 16.04. Hazardous material alerts*

Describes system alerts associated with hazardous materials

Verifies the generation of package and sample labels once an alert is received electronically

Evaluates current and future electronic hazardous material alert requirements

Develops electronic modules to manage and track activities associated with hazardous material alerts

INF 16.05. Hazardous risk management

Lists electronic central documents that define laboratory processes related to hazardous risk management

Verifies that documentation systems track laboratory processes related to hazardous risk management

Evaluates the documentation systems for laboratory processes related to hazardous risk management

Develops task workflow analyses to ensure the electronic management of hazardous risks

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 17.00. Laboratory mutual assistance and disaster recovery: manages laboratory mutual assistance and disaster recovery

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 17.01. Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP)*

Outlines coverage of informatics and IT services within the laboratory's COOP

Verifies that laboratory program responsibilities are carried out during the implementation of a COOP

Evaluates the informatics and IT aspects of the laboratory COOP to ensure they are complete and up-to-date

Develops informatics COOP workflows and procedures to restore informatics and IT support

INF 17.02. COOP contractual instruments

Describes COOP formal contractual instruments involving informatics

Verifies the performance of laboratory program informatics responsibilities pertaining to COOP contractual instruments

Manages the documentation supporting existing informatics contractual instruments pertaining to disaster recovery and mutual assistance through drills

Develops work plans and project management processes to ensure that comprehensive informatics contractual instruments are in place

INF 17.03. Electronic catalogue of capacities and services

Explains the importance of a catalogue of electronic capabilities and services, and of schedules for testing their effectiveness during disaster recovery and emergency situations

Verifies the accuracy and access to a catalogue of electronic capabilities, services, and schedules for testing their effectiveness during disaster recovery and emergency situations

Evaluates electronic catalogue capabilities, services, and schedules for testing their effectiveness during disaster recovery and emergency situations

Develops workflows and project management processes to validate the electronic catalogue of capabilities, services, schedules, and testing of effectiveness during disaster recovery and emergency situations

INF 18.00. Core IT products and services: manages core IT hardware, software, and services

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 18.01. Client-side systems and software

Employs client-side computer systems including LIMS access protocols and routine office software

Verifies the correct use of LIMS and advanced use of office software

Evaluates modifications, upgrades, and new releases to laboratory instrument software and systems

Evaluates client-side options regarding LIMS installation, management, and use

INF 18.02. Electronic communication

Describes communication tools for electronic information

Determines content for electronic information communication tools

Evaluates the use and requirements of electronic information communication tools

Develops the technology to support electronic information communication tools

INF 18.03. Enterprise-wide LIMS availability

Describes LIMS management processes

Verifies LIMS processes for data collection, data processing and reporting for laboratory business needs

Evaluates LIMS functionality to meet laboratory and customer needs

Manages the continuous availability and development of an enterprise-wide LIMS to ensure a fully functional and mature system

INF 18.04. Networking

Describes network access protocols and use of the laboratory network

Verifies laboratory use of predefined network protocols

Evaluates the use of networks to support laboratory activities

Manages the administration of network servers

INF 18.05. IT help desk

Describes access to available IT support

Documents the delivery of support to laboratory programs

Evaluates IT support needed for laboratory operations

Develops formal contractual instruments, workflows, and project management processes for the delivery of IT support throughout the laboratory

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 18.00. Core IT products and services: manages core IT hardware, software, and services

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 18.06. Software development life cycle (SDLC)*

Describes the processes to use and improve electronic laboratory workflows and algorithms

Verifies needs for software process improvements

Evaluates the resources that impact the SDLC

Manages the SDLC at the enterprise-level, including change management*

INF 18.07. Enterprise integration engine*

Lists predefined functions that use an integration engine

Verifies the use of predefined integration engine modules

Evaluates integration functions with partners and customers

Develops automated workflows and processes regarding data capture and use of an integration engine to message data

INF 18.08. Legacy data systems*

Defines legacy data systems

Verifies access to, and use of, legacy data systems

Evaluates the accessibility and searchability of legacy data

Develops workflows and processes to ensure that legacy data are accessible and searchable

INF 18.09. LIMS communication with third-party data systems

Describes predefined modules to support LIMS communication with third-party data systems

Verifies the proper use of predefined modules to support LIMS communication with third-party data systems

Evaluates the ability of the LIMS to communicate with third-party data systems

Develops workflows and processes to support LIMS communications with third-party systems

INF 18.10. Access and audit trails

Describes modules that provide a view of audit trails

Verifies staff access to electronic audit trails

Evaluates the ability of the LIMS to manage access and audit trails

Develops protocols to manage access and audit trails

INF 18.11. Instrument analysis software

Describes instrument analysis software systems

Uses instrument analysis software

Evaluates analytical instrument software

Develops analytical instrument software systems

INF 18.12. Computer maintenance and troubleshooting

Identifies basic computer problems

Performs routine computer maintenance and troubleshooting

Performs complex computer maintenance and troubleshooting

Manages the computer maintenance and troubleshooting processes

INF 19.00. Policies and procedures: manages operational, budgeting and funding policies and procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 19.01. Informatics policy

Describes existing informatics policies

Ensures laboratory program adherence to existing informatics policies

Evaluates informatics policies

Develops processes for informatics policy making

INF 19.02. Change control

Describes change control processes related to informatics

Ensures laboratory program adherence to the change control processes related to informatics

Evaluates the effectiveness of change control processes related to informatics

Develops informatics policies, processes, and procedures to manage change control and ensure staff compliance

INF 19.03. Documentation for standardized laboratory IT processes

Provides documentation for standardized laboratory IT processes

Verifies that paper and electronic documentation of laboratory IT processes are centrally located and accessible

Evaluates completeness of documentation for standardized laboratory IT processes

Develops workflows and processes to ensure paper and electronic documentation is centrally located and accessible

INF 19.04. Operational budgeting strategy

Describes the importance of electronic budgetary processes

Identifies informatics business needs of the laboratory program for operational budgeting strategizing

Evaluates the operational budgeting strategy

Develops a budgeting strategy for the laboratory's informatics systems and services

TABLE 11. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Informatics domain

INF 19.00. Policies and procedures: manages operational, budgeting and funding policies and procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

INF 19.05. Capital budgeting*

Describes the capital budgeting processes for informatics-related assets*

Provides the listing of capital budget needs regarding laboratory informatics

Evaluates capital budgeting needs regarding laboratory informatics

Develops capital budgets for electronic information systems and services

INF 19.06. Partnership channels

Lists established stakeholders and partnership channels

Presents short- and long-term informatics business needs to management staff

Ensures that laboratory informatics business needs are presented to stakeholders and partnership channels

Develops partnerships to facilitate funding for informatics

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† All of the tasks, in the proper order, required to carry out a process.

§ A set of technical rules for the transmission and receipt of information between computers.

A process for implementing changes to software or other information technology solutions using a coordinated approach.


TABLE 12. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 1.00. Concepts and techniques: adheres to policies* and principles governing actions and behaviors that are essential when working in a microbiology laboratory

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 1.01. Microbiological concepts and theories*

Describes basic microbiological concepts and theories

Relates microbiological concepts and theories to the specific tests that are conducted

Ensures microbiological concepts and theories are applied in laboratory testing

Evaluates laboratory practices for adherence to accepted microbiological concepts and theories

MCB 1.02. Basic microbiological techniques

Applies basic microbiological techniques to laboratory testing

Integrates basic microbiological techniques into new laboratory practices and procedures*

Trains staff on basic microbiological techniques

Ensures implementation of basic microbiological techniques into laboratory practices

MCB 2.00. Facilities and safety: works safely with microbiological agents within a laboratory facility*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 2.01. Laboratory hazards related to microbiological agents

Recognizes laboratory hazards and hazard communication* related to microbiological agents

Instructs others on laboratory hazards and hazard communication related to microbiological agents

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes,* and procedures addressing laboratory hazards related to microbiological agents

Develops policies, processes, and procedures regarding hazards related to microbial agents based on risk assessments†

MCB 2.02. Safe work practices*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding safe work practices related to microbiological agents

Instructs others in policies, processes, and procedures regarding safe work practices related to microbiological agents

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding safe work practices related to microbiological agents

Creates a culture of biosafety by ensuring that policies, processes, and procedures regarding safe work practices related to microbiological agents are aligned with current standards and regulatory requirements

TABLE 12. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 2.00. Facilities and safety: works safely with microbiological agents within a laboratory facility*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 2.03. Personal protective equipment (PPE)*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding PPE use for work related to microbiological agents

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding PPE use for work related to microbiological agents

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding PPE use for work related to microbiological agents

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures regarding PPE use for work related to microbiological agents

MCB 2.04. Biosafety cabinets and other engineering controls*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of biosafety cabinets and other engineering controls

Instructs staff in use of biosafety cabinets and other engineering controls

Ensures laboratory adherence to biosafety cabinet certification* and staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of biosafety cabinets and other engineering controls

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures, including training, to ensure implementation and use of biosafety cabinets and other engineering controls

MCB 2.05. Waste management related to microbiological agents

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding waste management related to microbiological agents

Instructs staff in waste management policies, processes, and procedures related to microbiological agents

Establishes waste management processes and procedures related to microbiological agents

Oversees the waste management plan* related to microbiological agents

MCB 2.06. Decontamination*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding decontamination

Instructs staff in the policies, processes, and procedures regarding decontamination for different microorganisms

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding decontamination

Develops policies, processes, and procedures related to decontamination

MCB 2.07. Storage of microbiological materials

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding storage of microbiological materials

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding the storage of microbiological materials for different microorganisms

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures that address the storage of microbiological materials

Develops policies, processes, and procedures related to the storage of microbiological materials

MCB 3.00. Pre-examination:* assesses microbiological samples* during the pre-examination phase

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 3.01. Sample collection, labeling, and handling

Describes routine sample collection, labeling, and handling policies, processes, and procedures for microbiological examination

Consults on nonroutine sample collection, labeling, and handling procedures for microbiological examination

Monitors staff compliance with established policies, processes, and procedures regarding microbiological sample collection, labeling, and handling

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for sample collection, labeling, and handling for microbiological examination

MCB 3.02. Packaging and shipping

Performs packing and shipping of Category A* and Category B* infectious substances

Instructs others on packing and shipping of Category A and Category B infectious substances

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the packing and shipping of Category A and Category B infectious substances

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to ensure staff compliance with packing and shipping regulations concerning Category A and Category B infectious substances

MCB 3.03. Material transport

Describes the importance of adhering to established policies, processes, and procedures regarding microbiological material transport

Instructs others on microbiological material transport policies, processes, and procedures

Develops microbiological material transport processes and procedures

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding microbiological material transport

TABLE 12. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 3.00. Pre-examination:* assesses microbiological samples* during the pre-examination phase

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 3.04. Biological threats

Describes policies, processes, and procedures for the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing agents of concern

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing agents of concern

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing agents of concern

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing agents of concern

MCB 3.05. Accessioning and receipt

Performs procedures for accessioning and receipt of microbiological samples

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding accessioning and receipt of microbiological samples

Develops processes and procedures for microbiological sample accessioning and receipt

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding microbiological sample accessioning and receipt

MCB 3.06. Sample tracking

Performs systematic tracking of microbiological samples from receipt to final disposition

Instructs staff on policies, processes, and procedures for the systematic tracking of microbiological samples from receipt to final disposition

Develops processes and procedures for the systematic tracking of microbiological samples from receipt to final disposition

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the systematic tracking of microbiological samples from receipt to final disposition

MCB 3.07. Sample evaluation and appropriateness* for testing

Assesses sample appropriateness for a particular microbiological examination

Instructs others in the appropriateness of routine and nonroutine samples for microbiological examination

Develops processes and procedures for assessment of routine and nonroutine sample appropriateness for microbiological examination

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding assessment of routine and nonroutine sample appropriateness for microbiological examination

MCB 3.08. Testing workflow§

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding testing workflow

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding testing workflow

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures related to testing workflow

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures related to testing workflow

MCB 3.09. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT) workflow (facility specific)

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding NAAT workflow

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding NAAT workflow, including pre- and postamplification areas

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding NAAT workflow

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures for NAAT workflow

MCB 3.10. Sample set-up

Performs sample set-up procedures for microbiological examinations

Instructs staff in sample set-up for microbiological examinations

Develops processes and procedures regarding sample set-up for microbiological examinations

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding sample set-up for microbiological examinations

MCB 3.11. Sample storage and handling

Performs procedures for microbiological sample storage and handling prior to examination

Instructs staff in procedures for microbiological sample storage and handling prior to examination

Develops processes and procedures for microbiological sample storage and handling prior to examination

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding microbiological sample storage and handling prior to examination

MCB 3.12. Epidemiologic collaboration

Describes which microbiological examination requests require epidemiologic notification and consultation

Reports to epidemiologists when microbiological examination requests warrant notification

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures for notification and consultation with epidemiologists regarding microbiological examination requests

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for notification and consultation with epidemiologists regarding microbiological examination requests

TABLE 12. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 4.00. Examination:* assesses microbiological samples during the examination phase

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 4.01. Preparation of culture media

Prepares culture media according to policies, processes, and procedures

Instructs staff on the preparation of culture media

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for media preparation

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for media preparation

MCB 4.02. Selection of media

Selects media according to procedures

Instructs staff in the media selection process

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures regarding quality practices for media selection

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding media selection

MCB 4.03. Culture inoculation

Performs culture inoculation using aseptic techniques

Instructs staff in how to inoculate cultures using aseptic technique

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures regarding quality practices for culture inoculation

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding culture inoculation

MCB 4.04. Microscopic examination with morphological characteristics

Recognizes the morphological characteristics of different organisms

Instructs staff in morphological identification and differentiating organisms from artifacts

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures regarding quality practices for morphological identification

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding morphological identification

MCB 4.05. Culture growth characteristics

Recognizes growth characteristics of microorganisms

Instructs staff in identifying growth characteristics of microorganisms

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures regarding quality practices for identifying microorganism growth characteristics

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for interpretation of microorganism growth characteristics

MCB 4.06. Manual identification* and susceptibility testing* methods

Performs identification and susceptibility testing using manual methods

Instructs staff in the performance of identification and susceptibility testing using manual methods

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for performing identification and susceptibility testing using manual methods

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the performance of identification and susceptibility testing using manual methods

MCB 4.07. Automated identification* and susceptibility testing* systems

Performs identification and susceptibility testing using automated systems

Instructs staff in the performance of identification and susceptibility testing using automated systems, including how to utilize algorithms to determine additional testing

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for performing identification and susceptibility testing using automated systems

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the performance of identification and susceptibility testing using automated systems

MCB 4.08. Agent-specific antigen detection*

Performs antigen detection methods

Instructs staff in how to perform antigen detection methods

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for antigen detection methods

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for antigen detection

MCB 4.09. Nucleic acid (NA) sequencing of infectious agents

Performs NA sequencing of infectious agents

Instructs staff in the performance of NA sequencing for the identification of infectious agents

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for NA sequencing of infectious agents, including the selection and utilization of databases

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding NA sequencing and sequence-based identification

TABLE 12. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 4.00. Examination:* assesses microbiological samples during the examination phase

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 4.10. Strain typing methods*

Performs strain typing

Instructs staff in how to perform strain typing

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding quality practices for strain typing

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding strain typing

MCB 4.11. Rule-out testing for agents of concern

Explains the policies, processes, and procedures regarding rule-out testing and referral

Performs rule-out testing and referral for identification, confirmation, and characterization of agents of concern

Ensures the laboratory responds quickly to needs for rapid testing with timely notification and secure messaging of results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding rule-out testing and referral

MCB 4.12. Quality control (QC)* analysis

Performs QC activities

Interprets QC data prior to reporting results

Examines QC data over time to establish QC ranges and limits

Ensures the QC program adheres to regulatory requirements*

MCB 5.00. Postexamination:* performs postexamination procedures of microbiological testing

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 5.01. QC evaluation

Assembles QC data for evaluation

Evaluates QC data for a given data reporting period

Ensures staff compliance with established policies, processes, and procedures for QC evaluation activities

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QC evaluation activities

MCB 5.02. Test analysis and results interpretation

Assembles test data for review and action

Analyzes test data

Interprets complex or ambiguous results

Oversees the policies, processes, procedures, and algorithms related to data analysis and results interpretation

MCB 5.03. Results reporting and data release

Adheres to policies, processes and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results*

Instruct staff in the policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures, related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results to partners

MCB 5.04. Quality assurance (QA)*

Explains the differences between QA and QC

Collects data for reporting on QA indicators

Evaluates QA indicator data

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QA

TABLE 12. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Microbiology domain

MCB 6.00. Regulatory compliance: ensures regulatory compliance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

MCB 6.01. Nonconforming event (NCE)* tracking

Recognizes NCEs in laboratory processes

Documents NCEs on discovery for implementation of corrective actions

Analyzes NCEs for corrective actions and documentation

Designs a management system for NCEs

MCB 6.02. Proficiency testing (PT)* and alternative assessment*

Performs PT and alternative assessment

Reviews PT and alternative assessment results

Monitors to ensure the PT and alternative assessment program meets regulatory requirements

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to PT and alternative assessments

MCB 6.03. Method validation* and performance verification*

Participates in performance of method validation and performance verification

Compiles results of method validation and performance verification

Evaluates method validation and performance verification results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to method validation and performance verification

MCB 6.04. Development and validation of laboratory-developed tests (LDTs)*

Participates in the development of LDTs

Evaluates LDT validation data

Creates processes and procedures for the development and validation of LDTs

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the development and validation of LDTs

MCB 6.05. Select agents*

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures related to the federal Select Agent Program,* including the securing, safe handling, and testing of select agents and the documentation of activities

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures related to the federal Select Agent Program, including the securing, safe handling, and testing of select agents and the documentation of activities

Implements policies, processes, and procedures regarding select agent security, biosafety, testing, and incident response plans*

Oversees select agent security, biosafety, testing, and incident response plans to ensure alignment with select agent regulations

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† The evaluation of the probability and consequences of exposure to a given hazard, with the intent to reduce the risk by establishing the appropriate hazard controls to be used.

§ Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.

 

TABLE 13. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Chemistry domain

CHM 1.00. Concepts and techniques: applies knowledge of chemical concepts* and techniques to studies of biological and environmental matrices

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 1.01. Chemical properties

Applies knowledge of the properties of matter to assist in chemical analyses

Integrates knowledge of the properties of matter into new chemical analyses

Differentiates chemical properties to improve chemical analyses

Integrates new understandings of chemical properties to address occupational exposures or environmental or other public health issues

CHM 1.02. Chemical concepts

Describes chemical concepts

Applies chemical concepts to analyses

Differentiates chemical concepts in analyses

Formulates new chemical concepts to improve determinations

CHM 1.03. Laboratory statistics

Explains statistical concepts and practices

Collects data for statistical analyses

Evaluates summarized data for statistical analyses

Oversees the development and use of statistical programs

CHM 1.04. Equations and calculations

Performs chemical calculations

Instructs staff in the performance of chemical calculations

Determines when and which chemical equations and calculations are needed

Oversees the use and interpretation of chemical equations and calculations

CHM 1.05. Measurements

Performs measurements and unit conversion calculations

Instructs staff in measurements and unit conversion calculations

Determines the needed accuracy and precision of measurements

Develops processes* and procedures* to maximize the accuracy and precision of measurements and techniques

TABLE 13. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Chemistry domain

CHM 2.00. Facilities and safety: works safely with hazardous materials* within a laboratory facility*

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 2.01. Chemical hazards

Recognizes chemical hazards and chemical hazard communication*

Instructs others on chemical hazards and hazard communication

Implements hazard communication procedures and training

Develops strategies to reduce chemical hazards based on risk assessments†

CHM 2.02. Safe work practices*

Adheres to safe work practices related to chemical hazards

Instructs others in safe work practices, policies, and procedures related to chemical hazards

Ensures staff compliance with policies,* processes, and procedures related to safe work practices related to chemical hazards

Creates a culture of safety by ensuring that policies, processes, and procedures regarding safe work practices related to chemical hazards are aligned with current standards and regulatory requirements

CHM 2.03. Personal protective equipment (PPE)*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding PPE use

Instructs staff in the use of PPE

Ensures that staff are trained and comply with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of PPE

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of PPE

CHM 2.04. Engineering controls*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of engineering controls

Instructs staff in the use of engineering controls

Ensures that staff are trained and comply with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of engineering controls

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures regarding the use of engineering controls

CHM 2.05. Waste management related to samples*

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures related to sample waste management

Instructs staff in sample waste management policies, processes, and procedures

Establishes sample waste management policies, processes, and procedures

Oversees the sample waste management plan*

CHM 3.00. Pre-examination:* performs chemistry pre-examination procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 3.01. Sample collection, labeling, and handling

Describes routine sample collection, labeling, and handling policies, processes, and procedures for chemical examination

Consults on nonroutine sample collection, labeling, and handling procedures for chemical examination

Monitors staff compliance with established policies, processes, and procedures regarding chemical sample collection, labeling, and handling

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the collection and handling of samples for chemical examination

CHM 3.02. Packaging and shipping

Performs the packing and shipping of hazardous samples

Instructs others on packing and shipping of hazardous samples

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the packing and shipping of hazardous samples

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to ensure staff compliance with packing and shipping regulations concerning hazardous samples

CHM 3.03. Material transport

Describes the importance of adhering to established policies, processes, and procedures regarding transport of materials for chemical examination

Instructs others on material transport policies, processes, and procedures

Develops material transport processes and procedures

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for the transport of materials for chemical examination

CHM 3.04. Chemical threats

Describes the policies, processes, and procedures for the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing chemical agents of concern

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing chemical agents of concern

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing chemical agents of concern

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the identification, handling, safety, appropriateness and triage of samples containing chemical agents of concern

TABLE 13. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Chemistry domain

CHM 3.00. Pre-examination:* performs chemistry pre-examination procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 3.05. Accessioning and receipt

Performs procedures for sample accessioning and receipt

Instructs staff on policies, processes, and procedures regarding sample accessioning and receipt

Manages the policies, processes, and procedures for sample accessioning and receipt

Designs policies, processes, and procedures regarding sample accessioning and receipt

CHM 3.06. Sample tracking

Performs systematic tracking of samples from receipt to final disposition

Instructs staff on policies, processes, and procedures for the systematic tracking of samples from receipt to final disposition

Manages the policies, processes, and procedures for the systematic tracking of samples from receipt to final disposition

Designs polices, processes, and procedures for the systematic tracking of samples from receipt to final disposition

CHM 3.07. Sample evaluation and appropriateness* for testing

Assesses appropriateness of routine samples for chemical examination

Instructs others in appropriateness of routine and nonroutine samples for chemical examination

Manages the policies, processes, and procedures for assessment of routine and nonroutine sample appropriateness for chemical examination

Establishes policies, processes, and procedures regarding the assessment of routine and nonroutine sample appropriateness for chemical examination

CHM 3.08. Testing workflow§

Adheres to policies, processes, and procedures regarding testing workflow

Instructs staff in policies, processes, and procedures regarding testing workflow

Ensures laboratory processes and procedures include use of testing workflow

Develops policies, processes, and procedures related to testing workflow

CHM 3.09. Sample processing

Performs sample processing procedures for routine chemical examinations

Performs sample processing for complex chemical examinations

Instructs staff on sample processing for routine and complex chemical examinations

Develops policies, processes, and procedures regarding sample processing for routine and complex chemical examinations

CHM 3.10. Pre-examination sample storage and handling

Performs procedures for sample storage and handling prior to examination

Instructs staff in procedures for sample storage and handling prior to examination

Manages processes and procedures for sample storage and handling prior to examination

Designs policies, processes, and procedures regarding sample storage and handling prior to examination

CHM 3.11. Epidemiologic collaboration

Describes which chemical examination requests require epidemiologic notification and consultation

Reports to epidemiologists when chemical examination requests warrant notification

Manages the policies, processes, and procedures for notification and consultation with epidemiologists regarding chemical examination requests

Designs policies, processes, and procedures regarding notification and consultation with epidemiologists regarding chemical examination requests

CHM 4.00. Examination:* performs chemistry examination procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 4.01. Examination

Performs chemistry examination procedures

Instructs staff in chemistry examination procedures

Monitors staff compliance with chemistry examination policies, processes, and procedures

Oversees chemistry examination policies, processes, and procedures

CHM 4.02. Chemical extractions

Performs routine chemical extraction methods

Performs nonroutine chemical extractions

Selects chemical extractions for an identified purpose

Develops new and improved types of chemical extractions

CHM 4.03. Quality control (QC)* analysis

Performs QC activities

Interprets QC data prior to reporting results

Examines QC data over time to establish QC ranges and limits

Ensures the QC program adheres to regulatory requirements*

CHM 4.04. Equipment troubleshooting

Identifies basic laboratory equipment* problems

Corrects equipment problems or failures

Monitors equipment functioning during its lifecycle

Develops equipment troubleshooting processes and procedures

TABLE 13. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Chemistry domain

CHM 4.00. Examination:* performs chemistry examination procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 4.05. Sample storage and handling after examination

Performs procedures for sample storage and handling after examination

Instructs staff in procedures for sample storage and handling after examination

Manages processes and procedures for sample storage and handling after examination

Designs policies, processes, and procedures for sample storage and handling after examination

CHM 5.00. Postexamination:* performs chemistry postexamination procedures

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 5.01.QC evaluation

Assembles QC data for evaluation

Evaluates QC data for a given data reporting period

Ensures staff compliance with established policies, processes, and procedures for QC evaluation activities

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QC evaluation activities

CHM 5.02. Test analysis and results interpretation

Assembles test data for review and action

Analyzes test data

Interprets complex or ambiguous results

Oversees the policies, processes, procedures, and algorithms related to data analysis and results interpretation

CHM 5.03. Results reporting and data release

Adheres to policies, processes and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results*

Instruct staff in the policies, processes, and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Ensures staff compliance with policies, processes and procedures related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures, related to reporting and release of examination results and notifiable results to partners

CHM 5.04. Quality assurance (QA)*

Explains the differences between QA and QC

Collects data for reporting on QA indicators

Evaluates QA indicator data

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to QA

CHM 6.00. Regulatory compliance: ensures regulatory compliance

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

CHM 6.01. Nonconforming event (NCE)* tracking

Recognizes NCEs in laboratory processes

Documents NCEs on discovery for implementation of corrective actions

Analyzes NCEs for corrective actions and documentation

Designs a management system for NCEs

CHM 6.02. Proficiency testing (PT)* and alternative assessment*

Performs PT and alternative assessment

Reviews PT and alternative assessment results

Monitors to ensure the PT and alternative assessment program meets regulatory requirements

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to PT and alternative assessments

CHM 6.03. Method validation* and performance verification*

Participates in performance of method validation and performance verification

Compiles results of method validation and performance verification

Evaluates method validation and performance verification results

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures related to method validation and performance verification

CHM 6.04. Development and validation of laboratory-developed tests (LDTs)*

Participates in the development of LDTs

Evaluates LDT validation data

Creates processes and procedures for the development and validation of LDTs

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures regarding the development and validation of LDTs

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† The evaluation of the probability and consequences of exposure to a given hazard, with the intent to reduce the risk by establishing the appropriate hazard controls to be used.

§ Sequential steps in a laboratory's activities that transform a submitter's test order into the laboratory information captured in the report of results, including pre-examination, examination, and postexamination procedures.


TABLE 14. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Bioinformatics domain

BIO 1.00. Biology and computer science knowledge: integrates knowledge of biology and computer science

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

BIO 1.01. Domain-specific biology principles

Identifies potential biological problems to be addressed by computer science techniques

Determines biological problems to be addressed by computer science techniques

Evaluates the effectiveness of the selected computer science technique(s) in addressing biological problems

Selects biological problems to be addressed by computer science techniques

BIO 1.02. Domain-specific computer science principles

Identifies computer science domains* to apply to biological problems

Applies computer science domains to biological problems

Evaluates computer science domains to apply to biological problems

Develops new understandings of computer science domains to apply to biological problems

BIO 2.00. Statistical methods knowledge: applies knowledge of statistical methods for analysis of biological data

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

BIO 2.01. Statistical analysis

Prepares data for processing

Uses simple statistical analysis to analyze trends and patterns and to draw conclusions related to the biological data

Compares findings to any related data sets

Oversees selection of advanced statistical methods applicable to specific bioinformatics analyses

TABLE 14. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Bioinformatics domain

BIO 3.00. Data analysis: analyzes biological data

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

BIO 3.01. Data analysis

Selects which existing tools and algorithms to use for any given analysis

Determines options and parameters of tools to meet specified needs of a given data analysis

Implements new software tools to address unmet needs or improve current processes*

Creates stand-alone analysis tools

BIO 3.02. Data interpretation

Identifies data pertinent to the analysis problem

Formulates results of analyses, including information in the form of graphs, charts, and tables

Interprets results within the context of the analysis problem

Generates hypotheses to predict future implications based on the evaluation of data analyses

BIO 3.03. Data visualization and representation

Uses data visualization and representation tools to present results of data analyses

Selects visualization and representation tools for specified bioinformatics problems

Evaluates representation and visualization tools for summarizing data analyses

Modifies existing visualization and representation tools to provide insight into bioinformatics analyses

BIO 3.04. Communication

Discusses bioinformatics with other scientists within their institution

Initiates bioinformatics collaborations with colleagues

Facilitates knowledge-sharing with stakeholders

Contributes to new findings and meaningful advancements in bioinformatics through the evaluation and sharing of knowledge

BIO 4.00. Data management: conducts data management, storage, and retrieval

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

BIO 4.01. Data structures*

Demonstrates basic knowledge of data structures

Applies knowledge of data structures to relevant problems

Manipulates data structures to address biological problems

Develops new data structures

BIO 4.02. Data management

Describes data management techniques

Applies knowledge of data management techniques to relevant problems

Evaluates data management techniques

Develops new data management techniques

BIO 4.03. Data storage and retrieval

Describes data storage and retrieval techniques

Applies knowledge of data storage and retrieval techniques

Evaluates data storage and retrieval techniques

Develops new data storage and retrieval techniques

BIO 4.04. Allocation of computing resources

Describe available computing resources and capacity

Allocates computing resources

Manages allocation of multiple computing resources

Develops new methods for allocation of computing resources

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

TABLE 15. Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Research domain

RES 1.00. Research programs: develops research programs

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 1.01. Research objectives and agenda

Describes the laboratory's research objectives

Illustrates how research projects fit within the laboratory's research objectives and agenda

Formulates research projects that align with the laboratory's research objectives and agenda

Develops hypothesis-driven research objectives and a research agenda for the laboratory

RES 1.02. Research funding

Describes general funding mechanisms that support public health research

Participates in writing funding proposals for research projects

Leads drafting of research funding proposals

Manages the overall processes* for obtaining and sustaining research funds

RES 1.03. Funding proposal reviews

Describes basics of the proposal review process

Reviews internal proposals to verify adherence to guidelines and recommended principles

Serves as an ad hoc reviewer for research proposal reviews

Serves on research proposal review committees

RES 1.04. Research staffing needs

Describes own role as part of the research staff

Recognizes research staffing needs

Participates in hiring research staff

Develops the strategic plan to recruit and retain researchers

RES 1.05. Research resource management

Uses financial and material resources judiciously

Considers available financial, human, and material resources when planning experiments

Assesses financial, human, and material resources when planning research projects

Aligns financial, human, and material resources to support the research program

RES 1.06. Regulatory requirements*

Complies with regulatory requirements in the performance of research

Identifies noncompliance with regulatory requirements pertaining to the performance of research

Manages processes regarding staff compliance with regulatory requirements concerning the performance of research

Ensures that laboratory programs operate consistent with regulatory requirements concerning the performance of research

TABLE 15. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Research domain

RES 2.00. Ethical conduct: ensures the ethical and responsible conduct of research

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 2.01. Ethical conduct in research*

Complies with policies,* processes, and procedures* related to ethical conduct in research

Instructs others in policies, processes, and procedures regarding ethical conduct in research

Ensures staff compliance to policies and procedures related to ethical research practices

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for implementing and maintaining ethical research practices

RES 2.02. Human and nonhuman subjects

Complies with policies, processes, and procedures related to doing research in human and nonhuman subjects

Instructs others in policies, processes, and procedures related to doing research in human and nonhuman subjects

Ensures staff compliance to policies and procedures related to doing research in human and nonhuman subjects

Oversees the policies, processes, and procedures for implementing and maintaining ethical practices* related to doing research in human and nonhuman subjects

RES 2.03. Collaboration

Complies with established agreements with collaborators

Describes complexities regarding issues of collaboration, including authorship

Ensures staff compliance with established agreements for research collaboration

Builds research collaborations

RES 2.04. Sharing research data

Complies with established agreements pertaining to research data sharing and the use of intellectual property

Describes issues that might arise pertaining to data ownership and the sharing of data

Ensures staff compliance with established agreements regarding data sharing

Establishes guidelines for sharing research data

RES 3.00. Research foundation: integrates scientific and technical knowledge for use as a foundation for research

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 3.01. Literature searches

Performs basic literature searches using a limited number of sources

Performs complex searches, aggregating results from multiple sources

Validates appropriateness of how searches are performed

Rectifies gaps in data generated from searches

RES 3.02. Critique of scientific literature

Reads scientific and technical literature relevant to own work

Assesses quality of literature and pertinence to own work

Synthesizes scientific evidence derived from literature

Evaluates scientific literature and data to determine impact on laboratory research programs

RES 3.03. Statistical concepts and tests

Recognizes meaning of common statistical concepts and tests

Applies appropriate statistical concepts and tests in performance of research

Interprets statistical tests and concepts used in literature

Critiques statistical tests and concepts used in literature

RES 3.04. Study designs

Explains characteristics of common study designs

Recognizes strengths and limitations of study designs

Considers study design characteristics when planning research activities

Evaluates evidence-based research guidelines to select or develop study designs

RES 3.05. Scientific and technical concepts and procedures

States scientific and technical concepts and procedures

Discusses scientific and technical concepts and procedures

Critiques scientific and technical concepts and procedures

Generates novel scientific and technical concepts and procedures

RES 3.06. Emerging trends

States latest scientific and technical advances relevant to current research

Discusses latest scientific and technical advances relevant to current research

Identifies emerging trends in scientific and technical advances and possible impact to laboratory

Analyzes emerging trends in scientific and technical advances to make decisions regarding impact on laboratory

TABLE 15. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Research domain

RES 4.00. Testing methodology development: develops new testing methodology

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 4.01. New testing methodologies

States the purpose of each step in existing testing methodologies employed

Describes limitations of existing methodologies

Proposes concepts for improved methodologies

Oversees plans for the development of new methodologies

RES 4.02. Pilot testing, method validation,* and performance verification*

Contributes to pilot testing, method validation, or performance verification

Performs pilot testing, method validation, or performance verification

Designs strategies for pilot testing, method validation, or performance verification

Oversees pilot testing, method validation, and performance verification studies

RES 4.03. New methodology application

Participates in implementation of new methodologies

Implements new methodologies into laboratory practice

Manages implementation of new methodologies

Oversees the implementation of new methodologies within the laboratory

RES 5.00. Research project execution: conducts research to address a public health issue or answer a public health question

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 5.01. Research project design

Explains how own tasks and activities support specific research projects

Summarizes the public health issues and research questions addressed by specific research projects

Designs research projects

Oversees research projects to address the identified public health issues or questions

RES 5.02. Experimental strategy and design

States the purpose of each step performed in individual experiments

Explains the overall experimental strategy

Designs individual experiments

Generates the overall experimental strategy and hypotheses for specific research projects

RES 5.03. Conduct of experiments

Uses established research protocols†

Provides input regarding research protocols and the conduct of experiments

Develops research protocols to guide the conduct of experiments

Oversees the conduct of experiments

RES 6.00. Research data management, analysis, and application: conducts research according to professional standards of data management, analysis, and application

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 6.01. Data collection and quality*

Records experimental procedures and data

Monitors quality and integrity of recorded information and data

Designs data collection and entry methods that meet data quality standards

Develops policies, processes, and procedures to ensure data quality and integrity

RES 6.02. Data management

Complies with policies and procedures for data management

Assists with the management of data for individual experiments

Manages project data

Oversees the management of research data for the laboratory

RES 6.03. Data analysis and results interpretation

Assists with data analysis of individual experiments

Analyzes project data

Interprets data for individual research projects

Oversees data analysis plans and results interpretation for the laboratory's research projects

RES 6.04. Data summaries

Describes data tables and graphs

Summarizes experimental data using multiple formats

Develops outlines and formats for data summaries

Critiques data summaries

RES 6.05. Application of research findings to current research

States laboratory's research findings

Examines the laboratory's research data to determine its significance in the context of the scientific literature

Implements integration of internal and external research findings into laboratory's research practices

Oversees integration of internal and external research findings into revised research agenda, objectives, and/or experimental strategies

TABLE 15. (Continued) Public health laboratory competency guidelines: Research domain

RES 7.00. Dissemination of research findings: disseminates research findings

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 7.01. Meeting and conference presentations

Attends institutional scientific presentations

Presents research to colleagues within the organization or via poster at external events

Presents research via oral presentation for discipline-wide audiences

Serves as an invited speaker at external meetings and conferences

RES 7.02. Manuscript preparation

Assists in manuscript drafting and editing

Drafts sections of research manuscripts

Publishes as first author or senior author in journals of the discipline

Publishes as senior author for multi-laboratory or multi-institutional research projects or in high-impact interdisciplinary journals

RES 7.03. Manuscript peer review process

Reads drafts of manuscripts submitted for peer review

Informally critiques manuscripts submitted for peer review

Participates in the peer review process as a formal reviewer

Participates in the manuscript peer review process as member of the editorial board

RES 8.00. Translation: translates research findings to public health practice

Subcompetency

Beginner

Competent

Proficient

Expert

RES 8.01. Translation of research findings into public health practice

States research findings as they relate to current public health practices

Describes implications of research findings on public health practices

Directs translation of research findings to public health practices

Oversees translation of research discoveries into meaningful changes in public health practices

* This term is defined in Appendix B.

† A detailed plan for conducting a scientific procedure.



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