Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assist with routine beekeeping activities.
This unit applies to beekeepers who work under general supervision and exercise limited autonomy with some accountability for their own work. They undertake defined activities and work in a structured context.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare materials, tools and equipment for beekeeping work | 1.1 Identify required materials, tools and equipment according to lists provided 1.2 Carry out checks on all materials, tools and equipment and report insufficient or faulty items 1.3 Use correct manual handling techniques when loading and unloading materials 1.4 Select personal protective equipment and check before use 1.5 Confirm the activity to be undertaken and take steps to control hazards and risks 1.6 Clarify instructions from supervisor where necessary |
2. Undertake beekeeping work as directed | 2.1 Carry out interactions with other staff, apiary site owners and customers in a professional manner 2.2 Follow supervisor’s instructions with regards to handling and disposing materials 2.3 Use appropriate bee-handling techniques as required 2.4 Tell the supervisor if there are any problems or difficulties in completing work to required standards or timelines |
3. Handle materials and equipment | 3.1 Handle and transport materials, tools and equipment 3.2 Handle waste material produced during work 3.3 Maintain a clean and safe work site |
4. Clean up on completion of work | 4.1 Return materials to store or dispose of 4.2 Clean, maintain and store tools and equipment 4.3 Report work outcomes, seek feedback on performance and note any required improvements for future action |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
handle frames and honey or other hive products for human consumption
prepare and handle materials, tools and equipment
repair and maintain hives
work safely around and with bees.
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
principles and practices of beekeeping work
bee-handling techniques
food safety regulations
tools and equipment.
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Beekeeping (BEK)