laboratory operations

About the sector

Laboratory operations is not strictly an industry sector, rather laboratory operations cover a diverse group of people working in technical and scientific occupations across a range of industries and roles, including:
  • manufacturing testing
  • biotechnology
  • food testing
  • construction materials testing
  • bio-medical laboratories
  • mineral assay
  • pathology testing
  • environmental testing/monitoring
  • defence laboratories
  • scientific glassblowing

  • These occupations are highly regulated as they play a critical role in the safety, quality and compliance of many industry sectors. Standards and/or regulations cover many aspects of laboratory operations including accreditation of laboratories, testing procedures, use of materials, documentation and maintenance of equipment.

    These regulatory imperatives and the increasing focus in most industries on environmental sustainability and compliance requirements will secure the demand for laboratory operations skills into the future.

    MSA’s role in this sector
    MSA has responsibility for the development, implementation and continuous improvement of qualifications for people working in technical and scientific occupations. These qualifications play a critical role in supporting the skills and knowledge required to use a broad range of scientific techniques and equipment to carry out tests and to operate and manage scientific processes.

    More about the Laboratory Operations sector

    How you can be involved
    MSA welcomes involvement from anyone with an interest in these areas. Input and feedback is important to ensure products meet industry needs.

    Interested stakeholders can participate in a number of ways. These include:

    Projects for laboratory operations
    In development/draft   In development/draft
    Final documents   Final documents
    Endorsed/completed   Endorsed/completed
    Endorsed/completed    Project to update Laboratory Operations Training Package
    more