Module 2 – Implementing Safe Work Practices

This module focuses on the practical application of workplace health and safety principles within assistance animal practice. Students will develop the knowledge and skills required to identify hazards, assess and manage risks, implement appropriate control measures and support safe work practices across a variety of clinical and community settings. The module also examines the role of personal protective equipment, workplace education and competency development in promoting safe, evidence-informed practice while protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of clients, Occupational Therapists and assistance animals.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, learners will be able to:

1. Explain the purpose and appropriate use of personal protective equipment (PPE) within assistance animal practice settings.
2. Identify situations where PPE may be required to reduce risks associated with animal handling, hygiene, biological hazards, chemicals and workplace activities.
3. Demonstrate understanding of the correct selection, use, maintenance and disposal of PPE in accordance with workplace procedures.
4. Explain the importance of hazardous chemical management within assistance animal practice, including safe storage, handling, labelling and disposal requirements.
5. Identify common hazardous substances encountered in assistance animal environments and describe appropriate risk controls.
6. Apply safe work practices when interacting with assistance animals, clients, equipment, environments and workplace systems.
7. Explain how safe work procedures support the prevention of injury, illness, incidents and animal welfare concerns.
8. Describe the role of workplace education, training and competency development in maintaining safe assistance animal practice.
9. Explain the importance of ongoing training, supervision and skills development in ensuring workers remain competent and safe.
10. Recognise the relationship between individual responsibility, organisational systems and continuous improvement in workplace safety.
11. Apply workplace safety principles to identify opportunities for improving safe work practices within assistance animal environments.
12. Demonstrate a proactive approach to workplace safety by implementing, reviewing and adapting safe work practices as required.

Learning Outcome Mapping