Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to safely remove and replace standard equine shoes as a contingency or emergency measure in situations where a farrier is not accessible and equine welfare is an issue.
The unit applies to livestock and agricultural workers, typically in regional or remote areas, who use horses or other equines for work and are required to carry out basic hoof care as part of their job role.
Workplace health and safety and animal welfare legislation relevant to interacting with horses applies to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and state/territory jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant authority for specific requirements.
No occupational licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements | Performance Criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to remove and replace equine shoes | 1.1 Approach and handle the equine calmly and in a manner that reduces stress and alarm, and minimises risk to handlers and the equine 1.2 Apply safe work practices and identify, fit and use personal protective equipment according to health and safety in the workplace procedures 1.3 Prepare and organise appropriate tools and materials for removing and replacing shoes 1.4 Adopt a working position that maintains safety and comfort for self, other handlers and equine 1.5 Lift equine fore and/or hind limbs safely and examine hooves and shoes to determine requirements |
2. Remove equine shoes | 2.1 Remove shoes safely using appropriate tools and methods, taking care to minimise damage to the hoof during removal 2.2 Examine the hoof, checking for foreign objects and damage, and clean hoof of debris 2.3 Examine the shoe and hoof wear pattern to determine the need for trimming or farriery services 2.4 Report any conditions requiring treatment by a farrier and/or veterinarian to ensure equine welfare |
3. Replace shoes and finish process | 3.1 Select suitable shoes, tools and appropriate size nails for attaching shoes 3.2 Attach shoe safely, securely and in the correct position according to equine requirements 3.3 Check correct fit of shoe and equine comfort by inspecting the shoe with hooves on and off the ground 3.4 Identify any signs of discomfort or lameness by walking and/or trotting the equine on firm ground in a safe manner 3.5 Advise relevant personnel of need to contact a farrier and/or veterinarian to address any signs of equine discomfort or lameness |
Foundation Skills
This section describes those language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills that are essential for performance in this unit of competency but are not explicit in the performance criteria.
Skill | Description |
Numeracy | Use measuring devices and take measurements accurately |
Navigate the world of work | Take responsibility for adherence to workplace health and safety, animal welfare and infection control requirements, relating to own role and work area |
Interact with others | Follow accepted communication practices and protocols for reporting information to others using equine industry terminology and concepts suitable for audience |
Get the work done | Plan, sequence and prioritise tasks and assemble equipment to remove and replace equine shoes |
Sectors
Farriery (FAR)