Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to maintain horse hooves in premium condition.
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 horse breeding and other horse industry 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. Prepare to perform hoof care on horses | 1.1 Interpret work instructions and confirm with management 1.2 Identify organisational requirements for the care and handling of horses according to animal health and welfare, and work health and safety (WHS) requirements 1.3 Hold discussions with other workers to ensure smooth operation of the process 1.4 Identify work health and safety (WHS) hazards while handling horses, assess risks and implement suitable controls 1.5 Select, check and maintain work tools and equipment |
2. Provide hoof care to horse | 2.1 Select basic farriery tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate for task 2.2 Lift horse feet, check health and condition, and pick and clean hooves according to set leg routines 2.3 Hold legs and present hoof 2.4 Provide basic hoof care, including administration of hoof treatment medications |
3. Complete maintenance and administration | 3.1 Clean equipment according to organisational procedures 3.2 Clean and store attachments and other equipment 3.3 Dispose of all containers, leftover fluids, waste and debris safely, according to environmental and organisational requirements 3.4 Record and document hoof care procedures for 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 information in written work program and instructions |
Writing | Record information relating to hoof care undertaken in the workplace accurately and legibly |
Numeracy | Estimate, calculate and record routine measures relating to basic hoof care |
Oral communication | Use active listening and questioning techniques to clarify and confirm instructions and requirements Use clear language, correct concepts and industry terminology to ensure clarity of meaning when reporting information and requesting assistance |
Navigate the world of work | Take responsibility for following workplace procedures, including safe work, safe horse handling practices, and animal welfare requirements, in own role and work area |
Interact with others | Work cooperatively with a range of personnel in different roles, using clear communication techniques to carry out basic hoof procedures |
Get the work done | Plan and sequence tasks and assemble equipment to achieve outcomes Make decisions about routine hoof care activities, taking responsibility for actions taken |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)