Elements and Performance Criteria
- Manage routine maintenance
- Maintenance schedules are planned in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations and industry minimum standards.
- The programmed replacement of consumables is implemented in line with recorded usage and replacement schedule.
- Worn or unsafe components are identified and replaced as required.
- Milking equipment maintenance problems are identified, and strategies for their rectification are implemented.
- Specialised services are engaged for non-routine service and repairs.
- Manage shed milking routines
- Milking shed routines and schedules are determined in line with available labour and resources.
- Staff responsibilities are allocated and communicated to maximise labour efficiency and ensure safe systems of work within the milking shed.
- Milk production recording procedures are established and implemented.
- Industry or supplier quality assurance practices and procedures are utilised in programmed shed routines.
- Manage procedures for handling cows unsuitable for milking
- Shed procedures for the identification of cow herd health problems are established in line with industry guidelines.
- Milk from at risk cows is isolated to maintain overall milk quality.
- Appropriate treatments are selected and implemented according to veterinary advice.
- Strategies for the isolation or drying off of at risk or mastitis infected cows are determined in consultation with appropriate specialist advice.
- Maintain milk quality practice
- In shed hygiene routines are determined according to standards for industry best practice.
- Hygiene procedures are implemented to minimise cross infection and teat or udder damage.
- Milk quality is constantly monitored to comply with specified supplier standards.
- Milk cooling equipment and storage is regularly monitored to maximise milk quality.
- Environmental implications of milking operations are identified and actions are put in place to minimise adverse effects.