Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely and efficiently transport horses to a destination.
The unit applies to individuals who work under broad direction and take responsibility for their own work. They complete routine activities and work in a range of known contexts within environments requiring horses to be transported.
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.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
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. Prepare to transport horses | 1.1 Check directions for transport and identify horses to be loaded 1.2 Determine transport requirements, including vehicle configuration, and/or engage a suitable carrier 1.3 Select and correctly fit personal protective equipment for safe loading and/or unloading of horses 1.4 Select gear and equipment for loading horse, and check gear for safety 1.5 Assess and control risks associated with transporting horses at all stages 1.6 Obtain permits or complete documentation according to workplace or regulatory requirements |
2. Load and unload horses | 2.1 Identify and control existing and potential hazards and safety risks to handler and horse when loading and unloading horses 2.2 Assess horses to confirm suitable condition for transporting 2.3 Fit gear correctly and prepare horses for loading to transport according to workplace procedures 2.4 Load and position horses according to transport configuration and classes, and secure using safe horse handling techniques and restraints 2.5 Unload horses using safe and humane handling techniques |
3. Transport and monitor horses | 3.1 Ensure horses are transported with minimal stress and discomfort 3.2 Check horses regularly throughout the journey, and unload for feeding and watering according to animal welfare standards and practices 3.3 Monitor horse condition and welfare after transport, and provide appropriate feed and water |
4. Complete transportation operations | 4.1 Clean, maintain and secure vehicle, equipment and facilities according to workplace requirements 4.2 Document transport information according to workplace procedures and regulatory requirements for the transport of livestock, including horses |
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 |
Reading | Interpret key information in written instructions and carrier specifications |
Numeracy | Use basic arithmetic to calculate distance and time, and horse numbers and weight, to determine carrier arrangements |
Navigate the world of work | Follow workplace safety procedures and animal welfare standards and guidelines to meet expectations relating to own role and area of responsibility |
Interact with others | Work cooperatively with other personnel using clear communication techniques to load and unload, and transport horses safely |
Get the work done | Plan, organise and monitor safe horse handling and transportation activities Make decisions based on assessment of risks and options, and adapt plans as required within limits of work role |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)