Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 5:47 PM AWST

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Fit and adjust bits and bridles

Fit and adjust bits and bridles

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMEQU420
State Code
ODV70
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
70
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to select and fit bits and bridles for individual horses and riders for range of horse sport or work activities.The unit applies to individuals who assess requirements and provide bit and bridle fitting services. 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 bits and bridles
  • 1.1 Identify design features and components of bits and bridles used for a range of horse sport disciplines, work activities and levels of rider experience
  • 1.2 Evaluate materials and durability of bits and bridles
  • 1.3 Apply techniques for assembling, cleaning and maintaining bit and bridle components
  • 1.4 Assess safety features and issues associated with bits and bridles
  • 1.5 Review current science and research about fitting bits and bridles for improved horse comfort, performance and safety
2. Identify rider and horse requirements
  • 2.1 Determine client requirements, riding experience and intended use of horse
  • 2.2 Identify overall horse characteristics, size, age and level of education
  • 2.3 Request information on concerns or problems related to bit and bridle fit and horse behaviour
3. Assess fit of existing bit and bridle
  • 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 and secure as required
  • 3.3 Examine horse for signs indicating pain, discomfort or inappropriate fit of existing bit and bridle
  • 3.4 Observe horse being ridden and identify behaviours indicating issues with fit of existing bit and bridle
  • 3.5 Provide options to client for improving fit of bit and bridle, including adjustments to existing gear or new gear components
4. Examine horse and select bit and bridle components
  • 4.1 Check horse mouth and dentition to determine bit fitting issues and advise on referral to veterinarian or equine dental technician if required
  • 4.2 Estimate or measure size of horse mouth using an appropriate tool, bit measure or existing bit
  • 4.3 Select appropriate size of bit, taking into consideration bit style and ring size and thickness of cheek pieces
  • 4.4 Select bit style to suit intended activity, and rider ability and needs to optimise individual horse comfort and movement
  • 4.5 Examine key anatomical features of head, including skull, jaw, nasal bones and mouth, estimating sizes relevant for bridle component selection
  • 4.6 Select bridle components suitable for individual horse, intended activity and client requirements
5. Fit bit and bridle and make adjustments
  • 5.1 Position bridle on horse and adjust components to ensure a comfortable fit
  • 5.2 Fit bit appropriate for individual horse and intended activity, and check for correct position in mouth
  • 5.3 Select, fit and adjust reins to suit rider characteristics
  • 5.4 Evaluate fit of bit and bridle on horse while static
  • 5.5 Observe horse when being ridden in different gaits to determine correct fit of bit and bridle, and make required adjustments
  • 5.6 Determine and select add-on accessories for rider and horse safety and comfort, in collaboration with client
6. Finalise fitting service
  • 6.1 Confirm selection of bit and bridle 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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