Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use a bee smoker when undertaking bee husbandry tasks.
The unit applies to individuals who operate a bee smoker. This includes identifying and providing solutions to a limited range of predictable problems.
State and territory regulations and local government by-laws apply in some jurisdictions to beehive ownership, biosecurity and the lighting of fires in the open.
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 bee smoker for use | 1.1 Identify the activity to be undertaken according to job requirements 1.2 Assess the climatic and other conditions that permit the use of smoker and adjust planned activities according to workplace procedures 1.3 Check bee smoker for serviceability and ensure any faults are rectified 1.4 Identify hazards and risks associated with the use of a bee smoker and apply control measures according to health and safety in the workplace procedures 1.5 Select, ensure serviceability, fit and use personal protective equipment 1.6 Ensure an adequate water supply and tools available for fire control according to regulations and workplace fire prevention procedures 1.7 Assess defensive behaviour of bees by considering weather conditions, nectar flow and strain of bee 1.8 Prepare the bee smoker with suitable fuel and ignite according to workplace procedures and manufacturer instructions 1.9 Operate bee smoker bellows to produce and maintain smoke according to workplace procedures |
2. Use bee smoker to manage bees | 2.1 Direct smoke into hive using the bellows and allow sufficient time for its effect according to workplace procedures 2.2 Use the smoker on hive and monitor its effect to maintain control of bees according to their behaviour 2.3 Ensure the smoker remains alight and within easy reach when in use 2.4 Ensure the smoker is used and extinguished safely according to operating instructions and workplace fire prevention procedures |
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 from health and safety in the workplace procedures and fire permit |
Navigate the world of work | Comply with explicit policies and procedures, seeking clarification or assistance when required |
Interact with others | Communicate with supervisor using appropriate terminology when confirming activities and conditions |
Get the work done | Follow clearly defined instructions and sequencing, and monitors own progress when operating a bee smoker |
Sectors
Beekeeping (BEK)