Application
This unit covers the skills and knowledge required to approach, catch and handle a range of quiet, well-handled domestic animals under supervision.
This is an introductory unit for those with little or no animal handling experience in commercial or professional settings. It covers understanding potential hazards and associated risks when working with and around animals. It covers the application of industry guidelines and procedures to ensure the welfare and safety of the individual and the animal.
This unit applies to individuals who may have limited or no experience in working in the animal care industry and who undertake defined routine activities under direct supervision with limited responsibility for their own work.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify and describe animals | 1.1 Use industry standard terminology to describe external body parts and features of animals by name and location 1.2 Identify and describe individual animals using specific characteristics and descriptions |
2. Prepare to catch animals | 2.1 Confirm the activity to be undertaken with supervisor, including identifying WHS potential hazards, risks and welfare needs of the animal 2.2 Take steps to control risks as directed 2.3 Prepare catching and handling gear appropriate to the task 2.4 Select appropriate personal protective equipment and ensure correct fit 2.5 Identify signs of confident and relaxed behaviour in animals 2.6 Inform supervisor if signs of fear and distress are identified in animals |
3. Safely approach animals | 3.1 Observe animal’s body language and behaviour patterns before approaching the animal 3.2 Observe the immediate environment and identify hazards that may impact on the safety of the animal, self and others 3.3 Consider risks associated with catching and handling animals, and confirm planned action with supervisor |
4. Catch and move quiet animals | 4.1 Select catching technique for nominated animals in consultation with supervisor 4.2 Approach and catch quiet animals 4.3 Move secured animals to required location for treatment or inspection |
5. Assist in restraining or handling animals | 5.1 Identify hazards associated with handling animals during inspections and treatment 5.2 Take steps to control risks as directed 5.3 Use basic handling methods on quiet animals 5.4 Provide assistance during inspection and treatment of animals |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Oral communication | Listen to, and clarify, work instructions |
Get the work done | Prioritise work tasks and problem-solve issues with catching and handling animals |
Sectors
General Animal Studies (GAS)