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Appendix 4a: Competence Framework (cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses)13
Scope
Knowledge of the legislation applicable to the welfare of animals during transport in particular on: general conditions for the transport of animals 14; documentation requirements 15; technical rules i.e. on fitness for transport, means of transport, transport practices, watering, feed and rest times, space allowances 16; and in the case of transport of over 8 hours route planning and documentation 17.
Not all of the following competences will necessarily have to be demonstrated by all drivers/attendants but those relevant to the specific role and responsibility of the driver/attendant will have to be.
Competences
1. Knowledge of the legislation relating to animal welfare and which body or organisation to contact with general questions, for example, about transport conditions, matters of law or documentation.
2. Knowledge of who is responsible for the welfare of animals during transport and at places on which the animals are before, during and after the journey.
3. Knowledge of the powers of enforcement authorities to inspect animals, documentation and vehicles before, during and after the journey.
4. Knowledge of the relevant requirements of the Regulation for rest, feed and liquid relating to the species to be transported.
5. Elementary knowledge of the causes of stress in animals, ability to recognise the signs of stress and ill health, in particular heat and cold stress, and basic knowledge of the appropriate action to take.
6. Knowledge of the appropriate methods of handling animals during loading and unloading, including the use of visual fields and flight zones, lighting and the appropriate use of such things as sticks, boards, blindfolds and electric goads. Knowledge of handling methods that are prohibited.
7. Knowledge of how to plan a journey taking into account such factors as maximum travelling times and required rest periods, time taken to load and unload.
8. Knowledge to anticipate changing conditions and provide appropriate contingency plans for unforeseen circumstances.
9. Ability to load, operate and control a vehicle safely, efficiently and effectively so as to ensure the welfare of the animals.
10. Knowledge of Health & Safety Regulations and ability identify and minimise risks.
11. Knowledge of vehicle construction and use requirements.
12. Knowledge of use of GPS equipment to record journey details 18 and submit record to competent authority when required to do so.
13. Knowledge to identify animals not fit for transport; to care for animals which become unfit or injured during transport (including emergency slaughter where appropriate); when to seek veterinary advice; and the limited circumstances when it is permissible to transport unfit animals for veterinary treatment or slaughter.
14. Knowledge of space allowances, effects of overcrowding, under stocking and headroom.
15. Knowledge of segregation requirements, taking into account species being transported, method of transportation, gender, condition, age.
16. Understanding of the importance for animal welfare of temperature, both inside and outside the vehicle, including the effect on different species and the need for adjustment of ventilation
17. Knowledge of how to optimise environmental conditions inside transport vehicle/container by appropriate and effective ventilation and to record temperature and humidity 19.
18. Knowledge of the authorisation requirements for transporters, when authorisation is necessary and when a journey log 20 or other documentation is required and how to complete the documents.
19. Ability to clean and disinfect vehicles and knowledge of when it is necessary to do so before and after the journey.
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