Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare to open a beehive
- Required tools and equipment are identified according to supervisor instructions or Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Checks are conducted on all tools and equipment and insufficient or faulty items are reported to supervisor or addressed according to SOPs.
- Weather conditions and nectar availability are assessed, and planned activities are adjusted if needed to minimise risk of robbing and hive stress.
- Correct manual handling techniques are used and damage to beehive is minimised.
- Suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected and checked prior to use.
- Occupational health and safety (OHS) hazards are identified and reported, and appropriate action is taken to minimise risks to self and others.
- Where in effect, site quarantine/biosecurity protocols are followed.
- Open the beehive
- Bees are controlled throughout the opening process by using smoke according to OHS requirements and SOPs.
- Work is carried out from a safe and appropriate position in relation to beehive.
- Beehive lid is raised using hive tool, and queen excluder, frames and/or supers are removed as required, according to specific task to be undertaken.
- All removed frames and supers are placed on upside down lid to ensure they remain dirt free.
- Reassemble the beehive
- Bees are controlled throughout reassembling process by using smoke according to OHS requirements and SOPs.
- Brood frames are placed back into hive in the same position from which they were removed unless manipulation is being undertaken.
- All frames are replaced in appropriate boxes and, where used, queen excluders and/or supers are replaced.
- Beehive lid is replaced and, where used, hive fasteners are done up securely.