This unit applies to artificial breeding technicians.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Determine breeding method

1.1. Options for artificial breeding are reviewed to determine most suitable and affordable method according to breeding objectives.

1.2. Artificial breeding option is selected and matched to resources and breeding objectives so as to meet the enterprise's livestock management program.

1.3. Resource implications of breeding programs are identified, sourced and arranged.

1.4. Program schedules are prepared according to available resources.

1.5. Suitable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and clothing for breeding support staff and self according to Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) and enterprise requirements is made readily available.

2. Implement breeding method

2.1. Genetic material is obtained from reliable and legitimate sources.

2.2. Genetic material is received, checked and stored according to industry codes of practice, and to ensure maximum viability and program outcomes.

2.3. Where Artificial Insemination (AI) is the selected option, females are inseminated at the optimal stage of the oestrus cycle.

2.4. Where Embryo Transfer (ET) is the selected option for artificial breeding, checks are carried out to ensure intended recipients are prepared and correctly scheduled for ET according to confirmed pregnancy status, oestrus cycle, animal health and program schedule.

2.5. Where ET is the selected option for artificial breeding, hormone injections are provided to intended recipients at appropriate stages of transfer programs to maximise fertilisation and conception.

2.6. Where ET is the selected option for artificial breeding, transfers are conducted according to accepted industry practice.

3. Monitor and maintain program

3.1. Need for return to service of intended recipient is monitored through selected methods.

3.2. Appropriate arrangements are made for the care of sick and injured animals.

3.3. Adjustments in genetic material transfer practices are reviewed to enhance success of future programs.

3.4. Data on genetic material transfer programs is documented and maintained according to enterprise requirements.

Required skills

administer AI

arrange for implantation of embryos by a veterinarian

prepare stock for AI and embryo implantation

determine AI and embryo implantation timing for livestock

identify hazards and implement safe work practices

use literacy skills to read, interpret and follow organisational policies and procedures, develop sequenced written instructions, record accurately and legibly information collected and select and apply procedures to a range of tasks

use oral communication skills/language competence to fulfil the job role as specified by the organisation including questioning, active listening, asking for clarification, negotiating solutions and responding to a range of views

use numeracy skills to estimate, calculate and record routine and more complex workplace measures and data

use interpersonal skills to work with others and relate to people from a range of cultural, social and religious backgrounds and with a range of physical and mental abilities.

Required knowledge

artificial breeding methods and benefits, and limitations of each method

anatomy and physiology of the reproductive organs and reproductive process in livestock

fertilisation and implantation methods

physical resource requirements and how to safely handle and transport them

ovulation stimulation and synchronisation

semen collection and dilution processes

semen thawing techniques

knowledge of enterprise's breeding programs

breeding principles

pregnancy testing

animal health and abnormalities

preparation requirements for AI

enterprise and industry identification system for livestock

relevant State/Territory legislation, regulations and codes of practice with regard to workplace OHS and animal welfare

legislative and regulatory controls with regard to AI and embryo implants

enterprise and industry policies with regard to AI, and recording and reporting requirements

identification of veterinary and non-veterinary procedures.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Overview of assessment

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit must be relevant to workplace operations and satisfy holistically all of the requirements of the performance criteria and required skills and knowledge and include achievement of the following:

identify appropriate artificial breeding options

schedule and resource insemination and implantation strategies

match oestrus cycles, resource availability and timing of operations

manage the genetic material

transfer, identify and implement re-insemination and implantation

record and maximise conception rates

record all details of the program.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Competency requires the application of work practices under work conditions. Selection and use of resources for some worksites may differ due to the regional or enterprise circumstances.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole.

Artificial breeding programs may include:

the supervision of both AI and ET programs covering:

mares

cows

ewes

sows

does.

Unit sector

Artificial insemination

This unit contains employability skills.