Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare to manipulate brood combs
- Suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is selected and checked prior to use.
- Tools and equipment required to manipulate brood are selected and checked prior to use.
- Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) hazards associated with manipulating brood are identified and actions are taken to minimise risk to self and others.
- Any site quarantine or other biosecurity protocols in force are observed.
- Reason for manipulating brood is clarified and appropriate sequence of actions is planned.
- Risks to colony, including to brood and queen bee, are identified and actions are taken to minimise likelihood and consequences of risks.
- Manipulate brood
- Hive is opened according to enterprise procedures and safe work practices.
- Combs are removed in planned sequence and placed in suitable position.
- Frames are replaced in same or new sequence and/or position, or removed to another hive according to purposes for which brood is being manipulated.
- Work is undertaken in a safe and environmentally appropriate manner according to enterprise guidelines.
- Enterprise policies and procedures in relation to workplace practices, handling and disposal of waste materials, and site quarantine are observed.
- Hive and colony are monitored after manipulation process and appropriate action is taken if needed.