Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 10:04 PM AWST

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Provide saddle fitting and adjustment services

Provide saddle fitting and adjustment services

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMEQU421
State Code
ODV41
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
18/02/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
25/05/2022
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
25/05/2022
Nominal Hours
160
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to select and fit saddlery equipment for individual horses and riders for a range of horse sport disciplines or work activities. It can apply to other domestic equines requiring saddlery equipment.The unit applies to individuals who assess requirements and provide saddle fitting services for clients. They work autonomously, use judgment in the selection and use of equipment, and provide and communicate solutions for predictable and unpredictable problems.Commonwealth and state/territory health and safety and animal welfare legislation, regulations and codes of practice relevant to interacting with horses apply to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and jurisdictions.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Maintain currency of knowledge of saddlery equipment design
  • 1.1 Identify design features and components of saddles used for a range of horse sport disciplines, work activities and levels of rider experience
  • 1.2 Evaluate construction techniques, materials and durability of saddlery equipment
  • 1.3 Assess safety features and issues associated with saddlery equipment
  • 1.4 Apply techniques for assembling, cleaning and maintaining saddles
  • 1.5 Review current science and research about improving saddle design for horse and rider comfort and safety
2. Evaluate saddlery requirements
  • 2.1 Identify client saddlery requirements, confirming intended horse use, level of work/exercise, age and other relevant characteristics
  • 2.2 Request information on concerns or problems related to saddle fit and horse behaviour
  • 2.3 Clarify financial arrangements with client relating to saddle and service costs
  • 2.4 Observe horse and assess conformation, movement, and fitness level relevant to selection of saddlery equipment
  • 2.5 Assess physical characteristics and experience of rider, and relate to selection of saddlery equipment
3. Assess horse for saddlery fit
  • 3.1 Select and fit personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • 3.2 Assess and control risks associated with interacting with horses in close proximity
  • 3.2 Approach and interact with horse using safe, low stress handling techniques
  • 3.3 Examine horse for signs of pain, discomfort or inappropriate fit of existing saddle
  • 3.4 Examine individual horse musculoskeletal features, taking relevant measurements, and making a template if required
  • 3.5 Determine saddle tree angle and width to suit horse, ensuring channel clearance of spine and withers
  • 3.6 Determine saddle length to suit thoracic region, avoiding the lumbar region and involuntary muscle and nerve reflex points
  • 3.7 Determine panel requirements appropriate for horse and intended rider and use
  • 3.8 Select and check existing or potential saddle/s suitable for individual horse, intended activity and client requirement, to be trialled
4. Fit saddlery equipment
  • 4.1 Position and check placement of saddle to allow free movement of back and shoulder and clearance of spine
  • 4.2 Girth horse, adjusting girth points to ensure saddle is secure with appropriate pressure
  • 4.3 Check panel contact along length of horse's back to confirm even pressure
  • 4.4 Check straightness and balance of saddle seat in relation to where rider sits
  • 4.5 Select, fit and adjust stirrups to suit rider characteristics
  • 4.6 Evaluate fit of saddle on horse while static with and without rider, identifying possible adjustments
  • 4.7 Communicate proposed adjustments and expected outcomes for rider and horse, and seek approval to make changes
  • 4.8 Observe horse movement, saddle stability and balance, and rider position, in different gaits, and make further adjustments if necessary, after consultation with rider
  • 4.9 Determine and select add-on accessories for rider and horse safety and comfort
5. Check and adjust existing saddle
  • 5.1 Evaluate suitability of existing saddle for current shape of horse, rider physical characteristics and intended use
  • 5.2 Examine saddlery for wear, faults and viability of repairs
  • 5.3 Provide advice on options for making adjustments to saddle for improved horse and rider comfort and safety
  • 5.4 Make fitting adjustments, reflock padding for saddle balance and/or realign saddle tree, or refer client to appropriate manufacturer or repairer
6. Finalise service with client
  • 6.1 Confirm selection of saddlery equipment with client
  • 6.2 Complete horse and client records according to organisational practice
  • 6.3 Finalise invoice, transaction or service arrangements
  • 6.4 Provide client follow-up service as required or agreed
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State Code National Code Title Type
CDY1 ACM40921 Certificate IV in Equine Care Qualification