Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:47 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Handle companion animals safely and follow infection control guidelines

Handle companion animals safely and follow infection control guidelines

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMINF201
State Code
OAL31
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/12/2018
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
29/05/2019
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
29/05/2019
Nominal Hours
55
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely handle companion animals and maintain clean and hygienic conditions for effective infection control in a range of environments where companion animals are cared for on a temporary basis. The unit focuses on dogs and cats. It may cover other companion animals such as birds, fish, rabbits and reptiles. The unit applies to individuals who are employed and/or volunteer in providing services that cater for companion animals such as shelters, catteries/kennels and day care facilities, and grooming/walking businesses. They work in known contexts dealing with routine tasks and a range of predictable problems.No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Confirm infection control guidelines
  • 1.1 Check workplace requirements for infection control and biosecurity related to own role
  • 1.2 Identify key personnel within the organisation with responsibility for infection control and biosecurity
  • 1.3 Identify common risks relating to infectious and zoonotic diseases relevant to companion animals
  • 1.4 Check workplace procedures for minimising risk of contracting diseases from companion animals
2. Maintain personal safety and hygiene when handling companion animals
  • 2.1 Wash and sanitise hands according to workplace guidelines
  • 2.2 Check own skin for cuts and abrasions and protect according to workplace guidelines
  • 2.3 Select and fit appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) according to the task requirements and workplace procedures
3. Handle companion animals safely
  • 3.1 Observe animal behaviour before approaching or handling to check for risks to safety of self, and other people or animals
  • 3.2 Use appropriate techniques, equipment and PPE to safely handle and control the companion animal to avoid being bitten or scratched
  • 3.3 Handle animals calmly and safely according to workplace guidelines and animal welfare principles
4. Monitor companion animals for signs of disease
  • 4.1 Recognise signs of common diseases affecting companion animals handled in the workplace
  • 4.2 Report suspected cases of disease or illness to appropriate person
  • 4.3 Follow instructions or guidelines for controlling access to infected animals
  • 4.4 Update infection control records according to workplace procedures
5. Maintain clean and hygienic animal environments
  • 5.1 Check procedures for cleaning and disinfecting animal environments
  • 5.2 Select and prepare appropriate cleaning products, disinfectants and cleaning equipment for cleaning task
  • 5.3 Clean animal environment and replace companion animal bedding according to workplace practices
  • 5.4 Ensure companion animal environments, feed and water are free of contaminants
  • 5.5 Dispose of waste according to workplace infection control and environmental practices, and local government requirements
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State Code National Code Title Type
BGQ7 ACM20121 Certificate II in Animal Care Qualification