Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 8:11 AM AWST

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Handle horses safely for stock work

Handle horses safely for stock work

Unit of competency
National Code
AHCLSK236
State Code
OFF15
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
11/02/2025
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
11/08/2025
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
11/08/2025
Nominal Hours
90
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to identify, safely catch, control, handle and release calm, consistent and obedient horses educated to work livestock. It addresses the potential risks associated with working with and around horses and livestock.The unit applies to individuals who undertake routine work under general supervision, with some accountability for their own work, identifying and providing solutions to a limited range of predictable problems.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace, and animal welfare legislation, regulations, standards and guidelines, and sustainability and biosecurity practices.In addition to legal responsibilities, all units of competency dealing with animals in the AHC Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservation and Land Management Training Package have the requirements for animals to be handled humanely to minimise stress and discomfort.No licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Identify horses and their typical behaviour
  • 1.1 Distinguish and confirm horses by their colour, markings, brands and sex
  • 1.2 Identify horse behaviour related to the natural instincts, sensory perceptions and social behaviour of horses
  • 1.3 Identify and interpret common horse body language
  • 1.4 Identify how horse behaviour is affected by human behaviour
  • 1.5 Identify environmental factors that may affect horse behaviour
2. Identify and control personal risks when handling horses
  • 2.1 Identify horse and known temperament, behaviour and level of education of horse prior to handling
  • 2.2 Check and confirm suitability of horse against own handling ability, and required activities
  • 2.3 Identify hazards, and assess and control and/or report risks related to handling horse
  • 2.4 Use appropriate personal behaviour and body language when handling horse
3. Safely catch, handle, secure and release horse
  • 3.1 Select and fit personal protective equipment (PPE) according to workplace procedures
  • 3.2 Select and fit appropriate horse gear for handling horse safely
  • 3.3 Locate horse and observe horse body language and behaviour before approaching
  • 3.4 Catch, lead and tie up horse using halter, and release horse using safe and low stress handling techniques
  • 3.5 Lead horse through narrow openings, and among other horses and handlers
  • 3.6 Tie up horse using a halter and lead-rope
  • 3.7 Lift fore and hind legs, and check and clean out hooves
  • 3.8 Check over and groom horse in preparation for proposed activity
  • 3.9 Release horse with another horse
4. Respond to immediate safety risks
  • 4.1 Monitor horse behaviour during all handling activities, and respond to situations and hazards that arise to avoid injury to self, others and horse
  • 4.2 Use safe and low stress handling techniques to control or minimise risks to horse and handler
  • 4.3 Report and seek assistance from supervisor on activities, risks or incidents beyond own level of responsibility
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