Application
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to collect and store propolis. It applies to those involved in the specialist production of propolis in line with food safety and quality assurance requirements.
This unit applies to beekeepers who analyse information and exercise judgement to complete a range of advanced skilled activities and demonstrate deep knowledge in a specific technical area. They have accountability for the work of others and analyse, design and communicate solutions to a range of complex problems.
No occupational licensing, legislative or certification requirements are known to apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Element | Performance criteria |
Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare to collect propolis | 1.1 Select or acquire suitable colony 1.2 Clean and sanitise equipment to be used in collection of propolis 1.3 Select and check suitable personal protective equipment (PPE) before use 1.4 Identify work health and safety hazards and take action to minimise risks to self and others 1.5 Construct and install suitable propolis trap or create cracks for bees to place propolis 1.6 Stimulate propolis production by manipulation of environmental conditions |
2. Collect and store propolis | 2.1 Remove propolis from hive frames, lids, boxes or propolis trap 2.2 Comply with quality assurance and food safety requirements throughout collection and storage of propolis 2.3 Observe personal hygiene requirements including washing hands and wearing clean clothing 2.4 Select appropriate extraction method and extract propolis 2.5 Store extracted propolis in appropriate clean and dry conditions |
Evidence of Performance
The candidate must be assessed on their ability to integrate and apply the performance requirements of this unit in a workplace setting. Performance must be demonstrated consistently over time and in a suitable range of contexts.
The candidate must provide evidence that they can:
correctly use appropriate personal protective clothing (PPE)
apply quality assurance and food safety procedures
handle bees and work safely around them
judge the suitability of a colony for propolis collection
remove propolis from hive frames, lids, boxes or propolis traps
maintain a healthy hive and colony
recognise propolis and distinguish it from other substances collected by bees
recognise suitable flora for propolis production.
Evidence of Knowledge
The candidate must demonstrate knowledge of:
characteristics of bees and their behaviour
food safety requirements
quality assurance requirements designed for the honey industry
suitable conditions and constraints on collecting propolis.
Assessment Conditions
Assessors must satisfy current standards for RTOs.
Foundation Skills
Foundation Skills essential to performance are explicit in the performance criteria of this unit of competency.
Range Statement
Sectors
Beekeeping (BEK)