Animal Health & Welfare
This course is designed for individuals who are new to horse care, those wishing to develop fundamental stable management skills, and existing equestrian personnel requiring formal training in the preparation, cleaning and maintenance of horse stables. It is suitable for horse owners, grooms, stable assistants, volunteers, learners entering the equine industry and anyone responsible for maintaining a safe, clean and hygienic stable environment.
Learners will develop the knowledge and practical competence required to prepare and maintain stables that promote horse health, welfare and biosecurity. The course covers stable preparation, mucking out procedures, bedding selection and management, feed and water provision, routine stable checks, equipment use, waste management and the recognition of hazards that may affect both horse and handler.
Through a combination of tutor-led theory, practical demonstrations and supervised hands-on activities, learners will develop safe working practices, an understanding of horse behaviour within the stable environment, and the ability to carry out routine stable management tasks in accordance with recognised industry standards.
Successful learners will be able to apply these skills within livery yards, riding schools, equestrian centres, private yards, colleges, charities and other equine environments where safe stable management forms an essential part of maintaining high standards of horse welfare.
The course has been developed to promote good husbandry, reduce the risks associated with stable management activities, support compliance with relevant health and safety and animal welfare legislation, and encourage consistent standards of cleanliness, biosecurity and safe working practices. Delivery should reflect the requirements of the following legislation as a minimum: -
1. Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
2. Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
3. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)
4. Animal Welfare Act 2006
5. Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 (as amended)
6. Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002 (as amended)
7. Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) 2013
8. Current industry guidance relating to equine welfare and stable management.
National Occupational Standards (NOS) may include, but are not limited to:
1. Preparing and maintaining safe, clean and hygienic stabling environments.
2. Maintaining the health, welfare and wellbeing of horses.
3. Feeding and watering horses in accordance with good husbandry practices.
4. Using and maintaining equipment safely within the stable environment.
5. Applying safe working practices and biosecurity measures in equine settings.
6. Recognising hazards and reporting concerns affecting horse welfare, health and safety.
Select a county from the drop down box to find your nearest UKRS accredited training provider delivering this course.
