Laboratory Technician Training


Course Info

Code IND05-132

Duration 5 Days

Format Classroom

Laboratory Technician Training

Course Summary

Laboratories are a vital part of many different sectors, primarily healthcare and science sectors. Laboratory technicians are a key role within the laboratory, as they will conduct the majority of the physical hands-on work to provide support for colleagues and increase productivity of the laboratory. 

 

A laboratory technician should have an overall understanding of instruments and equipment within the laboratory. They should be able to explain and demonstrate safe handling techniques of each piece of equipment and use them efficiently. Technicians will also have the knowledge and skills to efficiently sterilise and decontaminate instruments and the environment. 

 

Alongside knowledge of the equipment, a laboratory technician should also be competent in the health and safety procedures of the laboratory. They should seek to reduce the probability of risks at every opportunity through safe handling. Furthermore, they should understand how to identify potential hazards and report them correctly. As a part of health and safety, a technician will be responsible for ensuring the correct disposal of clinical and non-clinical waste. 


During this course, you’ll learn: 

 

  • To understand the importance of a laboratory technician in a clinical laboratory. 
  • To evaluate the roles, responsibilities, and competencies of a laboratory technician. 
  • To identify different types of laboratory instruments and equipment. 
  • To explain the purpose and methods of handling various laboratory equipment. 
  • To comprehend basic clinical chemistry and clinical microbiology. 
  • To describe the different solutions within the laboratory and how to utilise them correctly. 
  • To closely follow all health and safety procedures. 
  • To analyse methods of cleaning, sterilisation and decontamination both pieces of equipment and the overall environment. 

This course is designed for anyone within a laboratory setting who wishes to develop their knowledge. It would be most beneficial for: 

 

  • Laboratory Technicians 
  • Laboratory Technician Graduates 
  • Research Scientists 
  • HSE Officers 
  • Glassware Washers 
  • Clinical Waste Managers 

This course uses a variety of adult learning styles to aid full understanding and comprehension. Participants will review video recordings of a laboratory to identify different pieces of equipment and highlight any potential risks within the environment. 

 

They will be able to partake in a variety of learning methods and exercises, including seminars, discussions, case studies and group activities. This assortment of learning methods will help the participants to truly engage with the taught content and develop full comprehension of the knowledge and related practical skills. 


Course Content & Outline

Section 1 

Introduction to the Laboratory 

  • Defining what a clinical laboratory is, its purpose and necessity within healthcare. 
  • Recognising what positions work within the laboratory. 
  • What different services may be conducted in the laboratory. 
  • Describing the roles, responsibilities, and competencies of a laboratory technician. 
  • Understanding the classification and structure of different laboratory services. 
  • Following a professional code of conduct and ethics. 

 

Section 2 

Health and Safety 

  • Exploring what types of risks are associated with a laboratory – general occupational risks. 
  • Explaining what internal and external factors may influence the probability or the type of risks. 
  • Comprehending the consequences of poor health and safety and the potential accidents that may occur. 
  • How to identify and assess risks and the process of reporting to the correct individual. 

 

Section 3 

Instruments and Equipment 

  • Understanding the classification and organisation of different pieces of equipment – flasks, beakers, pipettes and more. 
  • Identifying the various types of microscopes and their unique features. 
  • Conducting safe handling techniques for all pieces of equipment. 
  • Maintaining the integrity of each piece of equipment and how to recognise and report faults. 

 

Section 4 

Sterilisation and Disinfection 

  • The vitality of correct sterilisation and disinfection within a laboratory setting. 
  • Evaluating the different methods of sterilisation and the ideal circumstances to utilise them – dry heat, moist heat, and steam under pressure. 
  • Explaining the various types of autoclaves, their advantages, disadvantages, and their ideal purpose. 
  • How to safely dispose of clinical and non-clinical waste in alignment with the organisation’s policies and national law. 

 

Section 5 

Maintaining Quality 

  • Understanding why maintaining quality is important. 
  • Recognising the consequences of poorly maintaining quality and how it impacts both patients and the organisation. 
  • Following laboratory procedures closely to ensure all practice standards are being met. 
  • Working collaboratively with colleagues within the laboratory to ensure all targets are being met. 


Course Video