Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to handle aquaculture stock, using stock handling equipment and carrying out observations relating to handling stock. It includes dangerous stock but does not cover handling crocodiles.
The unit applies to individuals who undertake routine stock handling activities, including cleaning, moving, grading and stocking of culture or holding structures, half pearl seeding of molluscs, and undertaking specific or general observations in an aquaculture setting under the direction of a supervisor.
All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety, food safety, biosecurity and environmental regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace. Licences may be required if operating load-shifting equipment, vehicles or vessels.
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 for handling stock | 1.1 Receive and confirm instructions with supervisor 1.2 Collect required equipment, including personal protective equipment, and check for serviceability 1.3 Report to supervisor any conditions that could adversely impact on the stock handling activity 1.4 Prepare culture or holding structures to meet the requirements of incoming stock 1.5 Select route or position of equipment for ease of access, safety of workers and minimal risk of stress and damage to stock being moved |
2. Handle and observe stock | 2.1 Observe, identify, isolate and retrieve required stock according to supervisor instructions 2.2 Use stock handling methods and equipment to minimise stress and damage to stock 2.3 Obtain and record data relating to stock handling |
3. Complete post-handling activities | 3.1 Clean work area and dispose of waste materials safely according to workplace procedures 3.2 Check and store tools and equipment, reporting any identified repair requirements to supervisor 3.3 Record relevant data, observations and post-handling mortalities, and report abnormal records to supervisor |
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 | Interprets text in work instructions and workplace procedures |
Writing | Completes workplace records legibly and accurately |
Numeracy | Counts and categorises stock |
Oral communication | Asks questions to clarify job requirements Describes abnormal records or stock behaviour using correct terminology |
Navigate the world of work | Recognises and follows workplace requirements, including safety requirements, associated with own role |
Get the work done | Seeks guidance when plans are interrupted, circumstances change or resources are not available |
Sectors
Aquaculture (AQU)