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Animal Transport by Road


What qualifications are available in this area?

There are three qualifications related to animal transport. These are:
  • Level 2 Award in Animal Transport by Road – Short Journey
  • Level 2 Award in Animal Transport by Road – Long Journey Attendant
  • Level 2 Award in Animal Transport by Road – Long Journey Driver.

Who are these qualifications aimed at?

This qualification is aimed at those who transport cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and birds for road journeys over 65km on short journeys (up to and including, eight hours) and for long journeys (over eight hours).

Why have these qualifications been developed?

This qualification has been developed for drivers and road attendants using road vehicles for transporting live vertebrate animals in connection with an economic activity. This also includes assembly centre staff handling animals. To ensure they are compliant with the Council Regulation (EC) 1/2005.

Council Regulation (EC) 1/2005 came into effect in January 2007 to set the training and competence requirements for the protection of animals during transport and related operations.

What do the qualifications involve?

The course looks at:
  • Fitness for travel
  • Means of transport
  • Use of facilities
  • Loading
  • Unloading and handling
  • Watering and feeding intervals
  • Journey times and rest periods
  • Space allowances and documentation.

For market and assembly staff it covers:
  • Fitness
  • Handling and separation.

All qualifications include a multiple choice test where you must demonstrate that you have met the requirements of each unit.

What are the benefits?

By completing these qualifications you will be able to demonstrate to the authorities and to potential employers that you have the skills and competence required to meet Council Regulation (EC) 1/2005.

How can I get the qualifications?

First of all you must be able to drive and hold the appropriate driving licence to go on this course.

Each of the qualifications are made up of two units. You must achieve a minimum of one unit specific to your work environment to get your qualification. Both units from a qualification can be achieved providing they are specific to your work environment.