Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with mare artificial insemination (AI) procedures to maximise conception rates and live foal outcomes. It includes identifying mares in oestrus, attending mares for service, providing support for reproductive services and keeping accurate records.
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 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 for AI mare procedures | 1.1 Interpret the work program to determine work to be undertaken, and confirm with management 1.2 Communicate with other workers to ensure smooth operation of the production process 1.3 Adhere to requirements for the care and handling of horses 1.4 Select, use and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) |
2. Identify mares in a state of oestrus | 2.1 Identify and select mares due for teasing or service 2.2 Identify work health and safety hazards, including horse behaviour and body language, assess risks and implement suitable controls 2.3 Catch and restrain selected mare, and foal if present, using safe horse handling techniques, for teasing or other oestrus identification procedures 2.4 Complete stud records according to workplace requirements |
3. Attend mares for artificial insemination | 3.1 Prepare mare for AI routines according to stud practice 3.2 Restrain mare safely for AI and secure any foal at foot in close proximity 3.3 Attend mare for the artificial insemination process 3.4 Return mare, and foal if present, to box or paddock 3.5 Complete workplace records |
4. Handle mares for routine veterinary reproductive procedures | 4.1 Handle mare and foal to ensure both are settled and safe 4.2 Lead mare (and foal) into crush, ensuring safety and wellbeing of both mare and foal, if present 4.3 Use an appropriate restraint method in the crush 4.4 Provide support for manual or ultrasound follicle and pregnancy testing procedures and AI 4.5 Assist the veterinarian to prepare for examination, swabbing, treatment or AI of the mare |
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 mare artificial insemination (AI) and breeding, accurately and legibly |
Numeracy | Estimate, calculate and record routine measures relating to AI and breeding |
Navigate the world of work | Take responsibility for following regulatory and 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 AI activities |
Get the work done | Plan and sequence multiple tasks; monitor activity and prioritise tasks to achieve outcomes Make decisions about routine AI activities, taking responsibility for actions taken |
Sectors
Horse Breeding (HBR)