Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with teasing and detecting oestrus in mares, supporting veterinary inspection, and preparing and cleaning the work area.
The unit applies to individuals who carry out work under routine supervision within organisation guidelines, exercising limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context within horse breeding environments.
No occupational licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Work health and safety and animal welfare legislation relevant to interacting with horses applies to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and state/territory jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant authority for specific requirements.
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. Assist with teasing process | 1.1 Identify and minimise risks relating to safe handling of mares with and without foals at foot, including referring to workplace records or tags for information about horses 1.2 Monitor mares for oestrus and record or report information 1.3 Catch and present mares to the teaser, under supervision, to determine if they are in oestrus 1.4 Move mares in oestrus, with and without foals at foot, safely to holding area 1.5 Restrain mares to minimise stress and discomfort for teasing while ensuring safety of handlers and others 1.6 Provide assistance with the hygienic preparation of equipment 1.7 Select, correctly fit and maintain suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) and clothing |
2. Support veterinary inspection of oestrus cycle and pregnancy detection | 2.1 Identify and place mares in crush for veterinary examination, ensuring foals, if present, are appropriately controlled 2.2 Hold mare and prepare for rectal examination and scanning 2.3 Record details of mare examination and status of cycle according to workplace practices |
3. Clean work area and equipment | 3.1 Dispose of waste according to recommended hygiene standards and environmental policy 3.2 Clean work area and equipment to industry standards and return to operating order 3.3 Return horses safely to designated area 3.4 Clean restraints and harnesses and return to safe and operational order |
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 |
Navigate the world of work | Comply with workplace procedures, including safe work and horse handling practices and environmental requirements, in own role and work area |
Interact with others | Work cooperatively with others using clear communication techniques to support achievement of work outcomes |
Get the work done | Follow clearly defined instructions and sequencing, and monitor own progress for assisting with mares, seeking assistance when necessary |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)