Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 1:45 PM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Evaluate saddlery and gear fit for horse and rider combination

Evaluate saddlery and gear fit for horse and rider combination

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMEQU419
State Code
ODV71
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
18/02/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
25/05/2022
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
25/05/2022
Nominal Hours
55
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to evaluate the fit of saddlery and gear for individual riders and horses for a range of horse sport or work activities. It can apply to other domestic equines that are ridden.The unit applies to individuals who have responsibility for assessing the fit, condition and suitability of saddles and gear for rider and horse safety and comfort. They work autonomously, use judgment in the selection and use of equipment, and provide and communicate solutions for predictable and unpredictable problems.Commonwealth and state/territory health and safety and animal welfare legislation, regulations and codes of practice relevant to interacting with horses apply to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and jurisdictions.No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Relate saddlery and gear design and condition to purpose and safety considerations
  • 1.1 Identify main components, design features and purpose of saddlery and gear for a range of horse sport disciplines or work activities
  • 1.2 Identify hazards and safety issues associated with saddlery and gear components
  • 1.3 Determine rider physical characteristics, experience, requirements and intended riding purpose
  • 1.4 Identify saddlery and gear suitable for different levels of rider experience
  • 1.5 Assess condition and safety of saddlery and gear, identifying areas of stress, wear points and damage
  • 1.6 Provide advice on options for maintaining, repairing or replacing saddlery and gear for rider and horse safety
2. Assess horse comfort in relation to fit of saddlery and gear
  • 2.1 Relate horse breed, conformation and developmental characteristics to fit of saddlery and gear
  • 2.2 Relate horse fitness and exercise level, and intended sport discipline or work activity, to fit of saddlery and associated gear
  • 2.3 Establish a safe place to assess static and ridden fit of gear
  • 2.4 Assess and control risks associated with interacting with horses in close proximity when checking condition and fit of saddlery and gear
  • 2.5 Check correct placement and fit of saddle, bit and bridle on horse
  • 2.6 Examine horse for signs indicating pain or discomfort relevant to fit of saddle and associated gear using palpation and observation techniques
  • 2.7 Determine need for adjustments to saddle and associated gear with rider and make necessary fitting adjustments prior to horse being ridden
3. Assess suitability of saddlery and gear for rider and horse
  • 3.1 Confirm rider wears required safety and personal protective gear prior to mounting horse
  • 3.2 Observe rider in saddle when static and assess posture, leg position and balance
  • 3.3 Observe rider position, balance and stability when riding in different gaits
  • 3.4 Observe horse balance, movement and comfort in movement under saddle when ridden
  • 3.5 Request feedback from rider, and coach where available, and interpret issues relating to fit of saddlery and gear
  • 3.6 Assess and report fit of saddle mount, bit and bridle, and other accessory gear, where relevant
  • 3.7 Provide advice on options for adjusting saddlery for safety and improved rider and horse comfort, and make adjustments or referrals as required
  • 3.8 Record key information about rider and horse according to workplace requirements
No information
No information
Replaces
State Code National Code Title Type
BBF12 ACMEQU404 Evaluate fit of saddlery and associated equipment Unit of competency
State Code National Code Title Type
BHN4 ACM50521 Diploma of Equine Allied Health Qualification
BHN8 ACM40921 Certificate IV in Equine Care Qualification