Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare to catch a swarm of honey bees
- All equipment required to collect a swarm of honey bees is obtained and confirmed as being in good repair and serviceable for use.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is checked for serviceability and worn and used correctly.
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards associated with collecting bee swarms are identified and action is taken to deal with them effectively.
- Any site quarantine in effect or other biosecurity protocols are observed.
- Risks associated with collecting a swarm of honey bees are identified and actions are taken to minimise likelihood and consequences of risks.
- Collect a swarm of honey bees
- Manage swarming behaviour in a honey bee colony
- Honey bee colony is monitored for signs that swarming may occur.
- Risks associated with handling bees that are likely to swarm are identified and actions are taken to minimise likelihood and consequences of risks.
- Where swarming appears likely to occur, range of control options is considered and best option is selected and implemented.
- Colony is monitored to ensure that swarming behaviour has been controlled and if necessary further control options are implemented.