This unit applies to workers in pork production enterprises that normally operate under limited supervision within enterprise guidelines.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Identify pig condition

1.1. Condition of pigs is accurately determined and scores are recorded according to recognised industry practices.

1.2. Pigs are ranked according to scores and nutritional requirements adjusted to facilitate optimum condition.

1.3. Feeding strategies are appropriate to the pig environment and seasonal conditions.

1.4. Judgements on pig conditions are based on verifiable information.

2. Facilitate mating

2.1. Oestrus inducement and detection procedures are carried out according to established industry practice.

2.2. Mating areas are secure and provide for access during joining.

2.3. Mating procedures and handling techniques that minimise stress and discomfort to livestock and meet Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements are used.

2.4. Mating is supervised and intervention when required is undertaken to maximise conception rates.

3. Complete mating procedure

3.1. Regular post-mating heat detection is carried out to check sows returning to oestrus as per enterprise requirements.

3.2. Records of mating are recorded accurately, legibly and according to enterprise and industry requirements.

4. Monitor sows to parturition

4.1. Nutritional needs of pregnant sows are identified and confirmed against the enterprise feeding plan.

4.2. Feed and feed supplements are determined and provided in accordance with the feeding plan and local conditions.

Required skills

identify hazards and follow safety directions

accurately condition score dry sows

supervise pig mating and assist as appropriate

conduct return checks on sows

administer preventative health treatments

carry out post-mating heat detection

read and interpret manufacturer's specifications, work and feeding plans, and material safety data sheets

communicate abnormalities, workplace hazards and report and maintain animal records

employ safe work practices

communicate effectively with other team members, veterinarians and supervisors

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

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

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

Required knowledge

sow conditioning

oestrus cycles

anatomy and physiology of male and female reproductive systems in pigs

factors affecting conception

pregnancy testing and oestrus detection procedures

pig health and abnormalities, preventative health treatments, procedures and methods

livestock movement and behavioural characteristics

handling and assisted joining techniques

hazards associated with handling animals and veterinarian medicines and chemicals

physiological and behavioural signs of impending farrowing

animal behaviour and nutritional requirements of sows

feed and feed supplements for sows and when to provide them

animal husbandry procedures

enterprise and industry identification system for livestock

personal protective equipment and when and how it should be used

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

enterprise and industry policies with regard to recording and reporting routines.

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 mating plans and select appropriate dams and sires

monitor sows condition

revise feeding strategies

detect oestrus cycles

monitor mating and take remedial action where needed

record data and report on the effectiveness of the mating 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.

Pigs may include:

pigs of all breeds or types used for commercial pork production.

Unit sector

Pork production

This unit contains employability skills.