Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 5:33 AM AWST

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Handle horses

Handle horses

Unit of competency
National Code
SISOEQU001
State Code
BBF47
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
19/12/2017
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
18/05/2018
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
18/05/2018
Nominal Hours
25
Description
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to safely handle horses, particularly those used in equestrian sport or recreational riding programs but it could have wider application to other equine settings.Horses are handled in contained areas including stables, fenced arenas, yards, round yards and paddocks.It requires knowledge of horse temperament, behaviour and body language to safely interact with horses and the ability to catch, lead, tie up and release horses.This unit applies to a range of organisations including those involved in equestrian sport, instructional and recreational riding programs. It applies to people working at all levels who handle horses as part of their regular work activities.No occupational licensing, certification or specific legislative requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Assess risks for horse handling activities.
  • 1.1. Identify known temperament, behaviour and level of education of horse prior to handling.
  • 1.2. Identify current environmental factors that may affect horse senses and behaviour.
  • 1.3. Observe and interpret horse body language and vocalisations to assess current horse behaviour.
  • 1.4. Identify and assess risks associated with the particular activity, horse enclosure and horse.
  • 1.5. Identify safe handling practices and confirm required organisational safety and emergency response procedures.
2. Approach and catch horses.
  • 2.1. Identify horses to be caught by their features.
  • 2.2. Check and confirm horses are aware of presence of handler prior to approach.
  • 2.3. Move safely around any horses lying down without encroaching danger zones.
  • 2.4. Catch an individually housed horse.
  • 2.5. Catch a horse from within a group of horses.
  • 2.6. Approach horses with halter and lead, using body language that minimises adverse horse reactions.
  • 2.7. Fit halter and lead assuming safe body position in relation to horses.
3. Lead, tie up and untie horses.
  • 3.1. Assume safe body position in relation to horses and use cues to start, stop and turn horse.
  • 3.2. Lead horse, under control, on its own through doorways and gates.
  • 3.3. Lead and stand horse single file in a group, and control to ensure horse and own safety.
  • 3.4. Lead horse under control past others leading a horse.
  • 3.5. Lead horse under control through, and out of a group of horses.
  • 3.6. Secure horse to tie up point.
  • 3.7. Check and confirm horse is aware of handler, move around avoiding danger zones, untie and lead horse.
4. Release horses.
  • 4.1. Remove halter and lead, assuming safe body position in relation to horse.
  • 4.2. Release horse into enclosure for a single horse; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
  • 4.3. Release horse into enclosure housing groups of horses; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
  • 4.4. Release horse as part of a group of handlers releasing horses; confirm security of enclosure before and after release.
5. Respond to immediate safety risks.
  • 5.1. Monitor horse behaviour during all handling activities and respond to adverse behaviour.
  • 5.2. Complete on-the-spot risk assessment as hazards arise during activities to avoid injury to self, others and horse.
  • 5.3. Use techniques to calm and control horse throughout activities and amend or cease activities as required.
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
D6248 SISOEQO201A Handle horses Unit of competency