Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 4:20 AM 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.

Determine wool classing strategies

Determine wool classing strategies

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCWOL401A
State Code
D7292
TGA Status
Replaced
DTWD Status
Replaced
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
10/06/2011
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
14/02/2014
Field of Education
050103 - Wool Science
Original Release Date
14/02/2014
Nominal Hours
30
Description
This unit covers the process of developing classing strategies to be used for classing a wool clip and defines the standard required to: source market and client information on clip preparation requirements; lay out a wool room for efficient operation; accurately assess wool quality and types; develop classing strategies that meet the requirements of codes of practice and seek to optimise returns for the grower; communicate specific and detailed requirements for clip preparation to shed staff; and review strategies and implement plans for improvement.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Source information for input to classing strategies
  • 1.1. Information on previous year's clip preparation and sale results is obtained, including classer's specification, test results, skirting ratios, AWEX-ID, sale prices, and any grower or processor feedback.
  • 1.2. Information on growing and management history for the mobs over the last twelve months is obtained from the grower.
  • 1.3. Current market trends and premiums and discounts are researched.
  • 1.4. Current recommendations appropriate to the specific wool clip are identified in the Code of Practice for Preparation of Australian Wool Clips.
  • 1.5. Current specific exporter and processor requirements and limitations are obtained and relevant details recorded.
  • 1.6. Marketing and selling methods and end uses for the wool are identified from the marketing plan and their implications on clip preparation are determined.
  • 1.7. Estimated prices for specific lines are identified from market information.
  • 1.8. Factors that will influence the classing process in the organisation are identified.
2. Develop strategies for classing this clip
  • 2.1. Fleece type is identified and suitable fleece, skirting and oddment lines are set up according to industry guidelines.
  • 2.2. Clip preparation methods and standards are selected to suit the fleece type and market requirements in consultation with the manager and other shed personnel.
  • 2.3. Operating procedures that eliminate contamination are selected and adopted.
  • 2.4. Wool classing procedures, methods and criteria are selected in line with fleece type, market requirements and industry standards.
  • 2.5. Shed layout and facilities are selected that will permit efficient workflow.
  • 2.6. Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards are identified, risks assessed and suitable controls determined.
  • 2.7. Requirements for labelling and placement of bins and containers are selected.
3. Communicate classing strategy
  • 3.1. The shed layout, equipment and facilities required are prepared and requirements for clip preparation are conveyed to shed staff.
  • 3.2. Clip preparation methods and classing procedures are clearly communicated to, and confirmed with, the wool handlers.
4. Review the success of the strategies for the clip
  • 4.1. Classed clips are analysed and strategies reviewed based on lines made, AWEX-ID, test results, selling costs and prices obtained.
  • 4.2. Alternative clip preparation and classing strategies are compared for profitability of the clip.
  • 4.3. Conclusions and actions of review processes are incorporated into future classing decisions and instructions to shed staff.
  • 4.4. Review of classing and marketing alternatives is discussed with owner/manager.
RANGE STATEMENT
The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.
Clips may include:
all types of merino and cross-bred clips that are to be sold through the Australian wool auction selling system.
EVIDENCE GUIDE
The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.
Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit
The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:
source market and client information on clip preparation requirements
lay out a wool room for efficient operation
accurately assess wool quality and types
develop classing strategies that meet the requirements of codes of practice and seek to optimise returns for the grower
communicate specific and detailed requirements for clip preparation to shed staff
review strategies and implement plans for improvement.
Context of and specific resources for assessment
Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
S3470 RTE4103A Determine wool classing strategies Unit of competency
Replaced By
State Code National Code Title Type
BAO21 AHCWOL401 Determine wool classing strategies Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
D500 AHC40110 Certificate IV in Agriculture Qualification
J795 AHC41313 Certificate IV in Wool Classing Qualification
D512 AHC41310 Certificate IV in Wool Classing Qualification