Google Links

Follow the links below to find material targeted to the unit's elements, performance criteria, required skills and knowledge

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Confirm infection control guidelines
   • Check workplace requirements for infection control and biosecurity related to own role
   • Identify key personnel within the organisation with responsibility for infection control and biosecurity
   • Identify common risks relating to infectious and zoonotic diseases relevant to companion animals
   • Check workplace procedures for minimising risk of contracting diseases from companion animals
2. Maintain personal safety and hygiene when handling companion animals
   • Wash and sanitise hands according to workplace guidelines
   • Check own skin for cuts and abrasions and protect according to workplace guidelines
   • Select and fit appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) according to the task requirements and workplace procedures
3. Handle companion animals safely
   • Observe animal behaviour before approaching or handling to check for risks to safety of self, and other people or animals
   • Use appropriate techniques, equipment and PPE to safely handle and control the companion animal to avoid being bitten or scratched
   • Handle animals calmly and safely according to workplace guidelines and animal welfare principles
4. Monitor companion animals for signs of disease
   • Recognise signs of common diseases affecting companion animals handled in the workplace
   • Report suspected cases of disease or illness to appropriate person
   • Follow instructions or guidelines for controlling access to infected animals
   • Update infection control records according to workplace procedures
5. Maintain clean and hygienic animal environments
   • Check procedures for cleaning and disinfecting animal environments
   • Select and prepare appropriate cleaning products, disinfectants and cleaning equipment for cleaning task
   • Clean animal environment and replace companion animal bedding according to workplace practices
   • Ensure companion animal environments, feed and water are free of contaminants
   • Dispose of waste according to workplace infection control and environmental practices, and local government requirements