Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:36 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.

Capture, transport and release crocodiles

Capture, transport and release crocodiles

Unit of competency
National Code
SFICRO403
State Code
OCH86
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
30/10/2020
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
18/02/2021
Field of Education
050701 - Aquaculture
Original Release Date
18/02/2021
Nominal Hours
35
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to use recognised manual manipulation techniques to capture, transport and release a crocodile working in a team. While this unit relates mostly to saltwater crocodiles, it may also entail incidents with other crocodile speciesThe unit applies to individuals who work as team members to assist in crocodile operational activity.All work must be carried out to comply with workplace procedures, according to state/territory health and safety, biosecurity and environmental regulations, legislation and standards that apply to the workplace and the capture and release of crocodiles. Licences or permits may be required for the use of firearms or restricted drugs on crocodiles or if operating vehicles.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Prepare for capture, transport and release of a crocodile
  • 1.1 Identify appropriate legislation/regulation and codes of practice for safe and humane capture, transport and release of crocodiles
  • 1.2 Discuss the different methods of capture, transport and release depending on the crocodile's size with relevant personnel
  • 1.3 Discuss team roles for capturing, transporting and releasing crocodiles with relevant personnel
  • 1.4 Select and fit appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and check first aid kit is complete
  • 1.5 Prepare operational equipment required for the capture, transport and release of crocodiles, incorporating safety, biosecurity, environmental and regulatory requirements
  • 1.6 Conduct a full rehearsal of the operation and establish the required communication processes according to workplace procedures
2. Capture a crocodile
  • 2.1 Prepare the crocodile trap or device to be used for crocodile capture
  • 2.2 Locate crocodile to be captured and estimate its length
  • 2.3 Monitor crocodile behaviour and consult with appropriate personnel to determine if chemical restraint is required
  • 2.4 Capture the crocodile according to standard operating procedures (SOPs)
  • 2.5 Restrain the crocodile's jaw according to SOPs to prevent the animal from striking or lunging
  • 2.6 Cover the crocodile's eyes to limit sight and calm the animal
  • 2.7 Load the crocodile according to workplace procedures and safe work practices
3. Transport a crocodile
  • 3.1 Prepare crocodile for transport according to workplace transport and biosecurity SOPs
  • 3.2 Monitor crocodile behaviour and vitals at all stages and maintain situational awareness to ensure safety of self, others and crocodile, and report any abnormal conditions or crocodile behaviour to appropriate personnel
  • 3.3 Maintain transport environment in a manner that is conducive to crocodile welfare and according to the appropriate crocodile code of practice
4. Use manual manipulation techniques to move a crocodile
  • 4.1 Safely manoeuvre the crocodile to the agreed location using appropriate equipment and physical effort in a haul team when required
  • 4.2 Cooperate and communicate with team members to ensure safety and minimal stress to the crocodile
5. Release a crocodile
  • 5.1 Remove crocodile constraints according to SOPs, maintaining safe work practices and avoiding unnecessary stress to the crocodile
  • 5.2 Reposition crocodile in a planned location and monitor during recovery phase
6. Review and debrief information relating to crocodile capture, transport and release
  • 6.1 Participate in crocodile capture, transport and release debrief session
  • 6.2 Discuss processes and identify possible procedural improvements with team members or appropriate personnel
No information
No information
No information