Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to develop basic knowledge of horse behaviour, read horse body language and minimise risk to self and others when interacting with horses.
The unit applies to individuals who are new or inexperienced in handling, working with and/or riding horses. Individuals at this level work under supervision.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Work health and safety and animal welfare legislation relevant to interacting with horses applies to workers in this industry. As requirements vary between industry sectors and state/territory jurisdictions, users must check with the relevant authority for specific requirements.
NOTE: The terms 'occupational health and safety' (OHS) and 'work health and safety' (WHS) generally have the same meaning in the workplace. In jurisdictions where the national model WHS legislation has not been implemented, RTOs must contextualise the unit of competency by referring to current OHS legislative requirements.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Identify basic horse behaviour | 1.1 Outline the natural instincts, sensory perceptions and social behaviour of horses 1.2 Recognise how horse senses can influence their behaviour and reactions 1.3 Identify environmental conditions that can unsettle horses 1.4 Distinguish ways horses can respond to different people and different situations |
2. Observe and interpret basic body language of horses in different situations | 2.1 Distinguish a range of horse body language 2.2 Recognise body language, including posture, facial features and vocalisation, indicating a horse is relaxed in its surroundings 2.3 Recognise body language, including vocalisation, posture and facial features, indicating a horse is unsettled or in a state of agitation in its surroundings |
3. Examine how horses learn and respond to different handling cues | 3.1 Recognise how pressure-release training works, including how horses learn to ‘go’, ‘slow’, ‘turn’ and ‘stop’ 3.2 Distinguish different ways to reward a horse 3.3 Identify a range of common cues used when handling horses 3.4 Observe how new cues are learned by the horse |
4. Identify areas of personal risk around horses | 4.1 Identify situations and behaviour that lead to common accidents and injuries when interacting with horses 4.2 Recognise human body language and behaviour to avoid around horses 4.3 Identify positive actions and behaviour that handlers or riders can take to minimise risks interacting with horses |
5. Minimise risk to self and others around horses | 5.1 Listen carefully to supervisor instructions and ask questions or raise concerns with the supervisor about the suitability of the horse selected for handling or riding 5.2 Select personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate for tasks, fit correctly and wear during activities with horses 5.3 Assess hazards and potential risks to self, others and the horse, and take steps to minimise risks 5.4 Interpret and respond appropriately to horse body language prior to approaching, and maintain awareness of horses at all times 5.5 Use body language and behaviour to achieve safe and positive responses from horses |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Oral communication | Use industry terminology to describe horse behaviour, body language and cues |
Navigate the world of work | Know own responsibilities and obligations when working with horses Demonstrate a duty of care to self and others when working with horses |
Sectors
Equine (EQU)