Unit of competency details

Elements describe the essential outcomes of a Unit of Competency

Performance criteria describe the required performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. Where bold italicised  text is used, further information is detailed in the Range Statement. Assessment of performance is to be consistent with the Evidence Guide.

ELEMENT 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

1. Ensure the security of pound premises 

1.1 Animal enclosures are secured  according to council regulations and animal care legislation.

1.2 Access to pound premises is restricted to authorised personnel.

2. Provide impounded animals with adequate care and attention 

2.1 Food and water supplies are adequate and suit requirements of animal species.

2.2 Condition of impounded animals is assessed regularly and appropriate medicinal treatment or supplements are provided.

2.3 Specialist veterinary attention is sought where warranted by the apparent condition of the animal.

3. Maintain operational registers and records 

3.1 Registers and records  are stored, updated and transferred in accordance with council and individual register requirements.

3.2 Registration fees are collected in accordance with council requirements and procedures.

4. Undertake minor design of animal housing 

4.1 Animal housing is designed in accordance with council planning policies and procedures.

5. Maintain pound structures, grounds and associated facilities 

5.1 Minor repairs  are carried out in an effective and timely manner on sheds and fences.

5.2 Grounds are maintained according to council requirements.

5.3 Pound is cleaned and waste is disposed of in accordance with occupational health and safety (OHS) and council requirements.

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit

Required Skills 

• minor maintenance of fences and sheds, in line with OHS and animal care standards
• record keeping

Required Knowledge 

• council structure and services
• irrigation
• watering
• drainage
• animal behaviour and handling techniques
• equipment
• food handling
• cleansing of holding areas
• yard operation
• veterinary and medicinal support

Overview of assessment requirements 

A person who demonstrates competency in this unit will be able to perform the outcomes described in the Elements to the required performance level detailed in the Performance Criteria. The knowledge and skill requirements described in the Range Statement must also be demonstrated. For example, knowledge of the legislative framework and safe work practices that underpin the performance of the unit are also required to be demonstrated

Critical aspects of evidence to be considered 

Animals are secured to prevent escape, in line with OHS and animal care legislation.

Care provided to animals is appropriate to council regulations and animal care legislation.

Registers and records are accurate and comprehensive, promoting identification of animals and assisting reporting.

Housing design and maintenance are adequate for animal care needs and volume.

Waste disposal is in accordance with OHS and council requirements.

Context of assessment 

On the job or in a simulated work environment.

Method of assessment 

The following assessment methods are suggested:

• observation of the learner performing a range of workplace tasks over sufficient time to demonstrate handling of a range of contingencies
• written and/or oral questioning to assess knowledge and understanding
• completion of workplace documentation
• third-party reports from experienced practitioners
• completion of self-paced learning materials including personal reflection and feedback from trainer, coach or supervisor

Evidence required for demonstration of consistent performance 

Evidence will need to be gathered over time across a range of variables.

Resource implications 

The learner and trainer should have access to appropriate documentation and resources normally used in the workplace.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised  wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Security  may include:

• fences and gates of perimeter and pens
• locks and catches
• on-site presence of staff
• provision of support to remote staff

Registers and records  may include:

• daily bills and receipts
• care and attention
• brands
• advertising for unclaimed animals
• monthly reports
• procedure sheets
• applications for registration

Minor repairs  may include:

• woodwork
• metalwork
• painting
• fencing
• roof repairs
• drainage
• signage