Assistance animal practice occurs across a wide range of environments, including private homes, workplaces, training facilities, healthcare settings, educational environments, public spaces and community locations. Each environment presents different risks and requires careful consideration of the interaction between the person, animal, equipment, environment and broader systems.

Unlike many healthcare interventions, assistance animal practice involves a living animal whose physical health, behaviour and welfare directly influence the safety and success of the partnership. Safe practice therefore requires professionals to consider not only risks to the human handler, but also risks to the animal, other people and the wider community.

Workplace health and safety within assistance animal practice extends beyond preventing accidents. It involves creating safe systems that support:

• safe human–animal interaction;
• animal welfare;
• handler confidence and competence;
• effective public access;
• prevention of injury and illness; and
• sustainable assistance animal partnerships.

A safe assistance animal partnership is not achieved through training alone. It requires ongoing management, appropriate resources, responsible handling practices, effective communication and recognition that the animal’s needs are essential to maintaining safe and ethical practice.

Professionals working with assistance animals have a responsibility to identify hazards, implement appropriate controls and continually review whether current practices remain safe, effective and appropriate.

Principles of Safe Assistance Animal Practice

Safe assistance animal practice requires consideration of the relationship between:

Person + Animal + Equipment + Environment + Task + Risk Management

Each element influences the safety and effectiveness of the partnership.

For example:

• An appropriately trained animal may still be unsafe if equipment is damaged or incorrectly fitted.
• Suitable equipment may still create risk if the handler is not trained in its safe use.
• A capable handler and animal team may experience difficulties if the environment creates excessive hazards or stress.
• A successful working partnership may decline if animal welfare needs are overlooked.

Effective safety management therefore requires a holistic approach rather than focusing on a single factor.

Professionals should consider:

• foreseeable hazards;
• likelihood and severity of harm;
• appropriate risk controls;
• individual needs of the handler and animal;
• environmental demands; and
• changes over time.

Risk management should be viewed as an ongoing process rather than a one-time activity. Environments, animals, handlers and circumstances change, meaning safety decisions must be regularly reviewed.

Safe Environments and Risk Assessment for Assistance Animals

Assistance animal teams may work across many environments, including:

• homes;
• workplaces;
• healthcare facilities;
• schools;
• training areas;
• community facilities; and
• public spaces.

Each environment presents unique hazards that should be considered before an animal and handler team enters or begins working within that space.

Every new or materially changed environment should be considered through an appropriate risk assessment process, with the formality and extent of that assessment proportionate to the circumstances and level of risk.

Risk assessment does not always require completion of a new formal risk assessment document. The appropriate approach depends on the nature of the activity, the environment, foreseeable hazards, existing controls and the level of risk involved.

Depending on the circumstances, assessment may involve:

• applying an existing organisational risk assessment or established controls;
• completing a pre-visit or environmental risk assessment;
• reviewing and updating an existing assessment;
• undertaking an informal situational assessment;
• undertaking a task-specific risk assessment;
• conducting an ongoing dynamic risk assessment in response to changing circumstances; or
• completing a formal documented risk assessment where the nature or level of risk warrants it.

The level and formality of assessment should consider factors such as:

• the environment;
• the activity being undertaken;
• the people and animals involved;
• the assistance animal’s experience and needs;
• foreseeable hazards;
• existing risk controls;
• the likelihood and potential consequences of harm; and
• whether circumstances have changed since a previous assessment.

Risk assessment should therefore be proportionate, responsive and context-specific, rather than treated as a documentation exercise that must be repeated unnecessarily for every location or activity.

Professionals and handlers should actively consider environmental risks when:

• commencing training;
• completing assessments;
• entering unfamiliar locations;
• undertaking public access activities; and
• introducing an animal into a new setting.

Environmental risk assessment involves considering:

• What hazards are present?
• Who or what may be affected?
• How likely is harm to occur?
• How serious could the consequences be?
• What controls can reduce risk?

The purpose of risk assessment is not to eliminate all risk, as this is rarely possible in real-world environments. Instead, it aims to identify foreseeable hazards and implement reasonable and proportionate controls to support safe participation.

Environmental Risk Assessment Considerations

When entering a new or materially changed environment, consideration should be given to:

• slip, trip and fall hazards;
• flooring surfaces;
• obstacles and clutter;
• electrical cords;
• sharp objects;
• toxic substances;
• unsafe furniture placement;
• access points and exits;
• environmental distractions;
• interactions with other animals; and
• emergency access.

Where practicable, identified hazards should be removed, secured, repositioned or otherwise controlled before commencing activities.

Floors and pathways should, where reasonably practicable, support:

• safe movement of the handler;
• safe movement of the animal; and
• emergency access if required.

Equipment, bags, leads, training items and other objects should be positioned so that they do not create unnecessary hazards.

Training Environment Safety

Training environments require particular attention because animals and handlers may be learning new skills, responding unpredictably or working at increased intensity.

The suitability of a training environment should be considered before each session, particularly where circumstances may have changed. Even familiar environments may require reassessment because hazards can emerge over time.

Examples of changing hazards include:

• moved furniture;
• new equipment;
• unfamiliar people;
• other animals;
• spills or slippery surfaces; and
• damaged facilities.

Where relevant, training environments should provide:

• clearly defined working areas;
• appropriate space for movement;
• safe access and exits;
• suitable flooring;
• manageable levels of environmental stimulation; and
• appropriate control of foreseeable hazards.

Designated Toileting Areas

Training areas should provide access to an appropriate toileting area where practicable.

This may support:

• hygiene management;
• predictable routines;
• reduced contamination risk; and
• professional presentation.

Toileting areas should, where possible, be:

• clearly identifiable;
• maintained hygienically;
• accessible without creating additional risks; and
• located away from food preparation and resting areas.

Handlers should carry appropriate waste disposal supplies and comply with applicable local requirements for animal waste management.

Floor and Movement Safety

Training areas should be considered for hazards such as:

• slippery surfaces;
• loose mats;
• wet areas;
• clutter;
• equipment left on the floor;
• unstable objects; and
• trip hazards.

Loose items including:

• leads;
• bags;
• toys;
• training equipment; and
• personal belongings

should be positioned so they do not create unnecessary hazards.

Poor environmental management may contribute to:

• handler falls;
• animal injury;
• equipment damage;
• reduced concentration; and
• unsafe interactions.

Animal-Specific Environmental Assessment

The environment should also be assessed from the animal’s perspective.

Consider:

• noise levels;
• distractions;
• temperature;
• access to rest areas;
• availability of water;
• toileting opportunities;
• interactions with other animals; and
• opportunities for recovery.

A physically safe environment may still be unsuitable if it creates excessive stress or prevents the animal from meeting its welfare needs.

Professionals should recognise signs that an environment may not be appropriate, including:

• increased stress behaviours;
• inability to settle;
• avoidance;
• fatigue;
• reduced responsiveness; and
• changes in normal behaviour.

Animals may communicate their needs through:

• body language;
• learned behaviours;
• trained communication signals; and
• changes in behaviour.

Handlers should be supported to recognise and respond appropriately when an animal indicates it requires:

• water;
• toileting;
• rest;
• reduced workload; or
• removal from a stressful environment.

Animal Housing, Containment and Crate Safety

Housing and containment equipment, including crates, pens and designated rest areas, should be maintained in safe working order and remain appropriate for the individual animal.

Crates and containment equipment should be inspected at appropriate intervals to consider whether:

• doors and latches function correctly;
• hinges and fasteners are secure;
• there are sharp edges or damaged components;
• ventilation is adequate;
• the animal has sufficient space for comfortable movement; and
• the equipment remains appropriate for the animal’s size and needs.

Animals should not be confined in:

• damaged crates;
• unsafe containment areas;
• inappropriately sized equipment; or
• environments that compromise their safety or welfare.

Potential risks from unsafe containment include:

• injury;
• escape;
• panic responses;
• entrapment; and
• increased stress.

Crates should not be used as a substitute for:

• exercise;
• enrichment;
• social interaction; or
• appropriate welfare management.

Where crates or other containment systems are used, their use should support the animal’s safety, comfort and welfare and be appropriate to the individual animal and circumstances.

Food, Water and Essential Resource Management

Access to appropriate nutrition and clean water is a fundamental animal welfare consideration.

Assistance animals should have appropriate access to clean drinking water consistent with their health, workload, environmental conditions and veterinary advice.

Water should not be deliberately restricted merely to:

• prevent toileting accidents;
• make public access more convenient;
• manage behaviour without appropriate clinical or behavioural justification; or
• reduce the need for breaks.

Inappropriate water restriction may contribute to:

• dehydration;
• distress;
• reduced concentration;
• health complications; and
• compromised welfare.

Where any restriction or modification of water intake is clinically indicated, this should be based on appropriate veterinary advice rather than convenience.

Where toileting management is required, professionals should support strategies such as:

• routine development;
• environmental planning;
• communication training; and
• recognising the animal’s individual signals.

Assistance animals may also be trained to communicate needs such as:

• access to water;
• a toilet break;
• rest;
• reduced workload; or
• assistance.

Recognising and responding to these signals supports welfare, trust and partnership success.

Food and Water Bowl Hygiene

Food and water equipment should be maintained appropriately to reduce contamination risks and support animal health.

Food bowls should generally be:

• cleaned appropriately after use;
• kept free from accumulated food residue; and
• inspected for damage or deterioration.

Water bowls should:

• contain fresh, clean water;
• be cleaned regularly; and
• receive more thorough cleaning at intervals appropriate to their use, material and level of contamination.

Biofilm refers to a layer of microorganisms and organic material that can develop on moist surfaces. Regular cleaning helps reduce contamination and supports safer hygiene practices.

More frequent cleaning may be appropriate where:

• multiple animals share resources;
• visible contamination occurs;
• animals are unwell; or
• veterinary or infection-control advice recommends increased hygiene.

Damaged bowls should be replaced where cracks, scratches or deterioration prevent effective cleaning or create a safety risk.

Animal Hygiene and Infection Prevention

Maintaining appropriate animal hygiene contributes to:

• animal health;
• public confidence;
• infection prevention;
• comfort; and
• safe participation in public environments.

Routine hygiene practices may include:

• grooming;
• bathing when appropriate;
• coat maintenance;
• nail care;
• dental care;
• cleaning bedding; and
• cleaning equipment.

Hygiene practices should balance cleanliness with animal welfare and individual health needs.

Excessive washing or inappropriate grooming practices may contribute to:

• skin irritation;
• discomfort;
• reduced coat health; and
• stress.

Safe Handling Equipment and Risk Reduction

Assistance animal equipment forms an important component of workplace health and safety because it can directly influence the safety of the handler, animal, professionals and members of the public.

Equipment should not be viewed simply as an accessory, restraint or identification item. Rather, it forms part of a broader safety system that may support:

• communication;
• predictability;
• risk reduction;
• effective human–animal partnerships; and
• safe participation in community environments.

Appropriate equipment selection, inspection, storage, cleaning, maintenance and safe handling practices are important responsibilities within assistance animal practice.

Poorly fitted, damaged, contaminated or inappropriate equipment may contribute to preventable risks, including:

• injury;
• equipment failure;
• animal distress;
• escape;
• falls; and
• reduced public safety.

Professionals and handlers should select equipment that is appropriate for the specific assistance animal team, task and environment, rather than relying on unsuitable equipment simply because it is available.

A “make do” approach to equipment may compromise:

• handler safety;
• animal welfare;
• public confidence; and
• effectiveness of the partnership.

Equipment selection should consider:

• animal size;
• breed and physical structure;
• health status;
• working role;
• task requirements;
• handler ability; and
• environmental conditions.

Equipment Inspection and Maintenance

Assistance animal equipment should be inspected at appropriate intervals and before use where there is a foreseeable risk that damage, incorrect fit or deterioration could affect safety.

The frequency and extent of inspection should be proportionate to factors such as:

• equipment type;
• frequency of use;
• age and condition;
• manufacturer instructions;
• environmental exposure; and
• consequences of equipment failure.

Checks may include inspection for:

• fraying;
• loose threads;
• damaged materials;
• weakened stitching;
• damaged clips or buckles;
• rust or corrosion;
• cracks or deterioration;
• worn attachment points;
• unreliable fasteners;
• broken components;
• contamination; and
• incorrect fit.

Equipment should not be used where damage, deterioration, incorrect fit or another defect makes its use unsafe or unsuitable.

Clips, buckles and fasteners should function reliably and be maintained according to their intended use.

Equipment failure may create significant risks, particularly in public environments or emergency situations.

Equipment Storage, Cleaning and Hygiene

Equipment should be stored in a manner that protects it from:

• damage;
• contamination;
• environmental exposure; and
• unnecessary wear.

Where practicable, equipment should be stored:

• in a clean and dry location;
• away from foreseeable hazards;
• so it does not create a trip or access hazard; and
• where it can be located and inspected when required.

Poor storage practices may contribute to:

• equipment deterioration;
• contamination;
• reduced lifespan; and
• delayed access during emergencies.

Equipment Cleaning and Disinfection

Assistance animal equipment should be cleaned at intervals appropriate to:

• equipment material;
• manufacturer recommendations;
• frequency of use;
• environmental exposure;
• contamination risk; and
• infection-control requirements.

Cleaning or disinfection may be required:

• as part of routine maintenance;
• when visibly dirty;
• following contamination;
• following relevant illness or infection risk; or
• before use with another animal where cross-contamination is possible.

Shared equipment should be appropriately cleaned and, where indicated, disinfected before use with another animal.

This may include:

• collars;
• harnesses;
• leads;
• training equipment;
• mobility equipment; and
• identification equipment.

Shared equipment can potentially contribute to transmission of:

• bacteria;
• viruses;
• fungi; and
• parasites.

Equipment Design and Safety Considerations

Working equipment should prioritise:

• safety;
• durability;
• function;
• animal comfort; and
• ease of use.

Decorative additions such as:

• diamantes;
• gemstones;
• charms;
• studs; and
• unnecessary attachments

should be considered carefully where they may create functional or safety risks.

Potential concerns include:

• snagging;
• injury to the handler;
• interference with safe handling;
• damage to other equipment; and
• reduced practicality.

Working equipment should primarily be selected according to the functional needs of the partnership.

Correct Equipment Fit

Equipment should be correctly fitted to the individual animal and used according to its intended purpose.

Equipment that is too loose may:

• allow escape;
• reduce handler control;
• become caught on objects;
• create trip hazards; and
• increase falls risk.

Equipment that is too tight may:

• restrict breathing;
• interfere with movement;
• alter gait patterns;
• create pressure points;
• cause rubbing or skin injury; and
• contribute to discomfort or stress.

Appropriately fitted equipment should allow the animal to:

• move naturally;
• breathe comfortably;
• perform tasks safely; and
• maintain appropriate welfare.

Collar and Quick-Release Safety

Collars require particular consideration because they can create risks if they become caught on environmental structures.

Potential entrapment points may include:

• fences;
• gates;
• crates;
• furniture; and
• environmental structures.

Collar entrapment may result in:

• panic;
• injury;
• strangulation; or
• death.

Quick-release collars, breakaway mechanisms or other appropriate safety strategies should be considered where there is a foreseeable entrapment risk, particularly when an animal may be unattended or interacting with other animals.

The most appropriate collar or identification system will depend on the individual animal, environment, working role and need for secure identification.

Multi-Animal Collar Safety

Additional risks may arise when multiple dogs interact.

During play or social interaction, one dog may place its mouth or jaw through another dog’s collar. If the animals panic or pull against each other, serious injury may occur.

Potential consequences include:

• strangulation;
• severe trauma;
• jaw injury;
• emergency veterinary treatment; and
• death.

Handlers should consider these risks when:

• supervising multiple animals;
• selecting collar types;
• allowing dog interactions; and
• managing shared environments.

Identification Equipment Safety

Identification equipment, including:

• tags;
• badges;
• patches; and
• vests

should be attached in a manner that does not interfere with the safe operation of working equipment.

Where possible, identification tags should be positioned so they do not interfere with lead attachment or other safety-critical connection points.

Using the same attachment point may, depending on the equipment:

• place additional load on the attachment point;
• interfere with lead connection;
• contribute to equipment failure; or
• complicate emergency removal.

Equipment configuration should be appropriate to the individual animal and manufacturer design.

Water Safety and Equipment Use

Equipment requirements change depending on the environment and activity.

Standard walking leads may create entanglement and movement risks during swimming and generally should not remain attached where doing so could compromise the animal’s ability to move or surface safely.

Potential risks include:

• entanglement;
• restricted movement;
• panic;
• difficulty surfacing; and
• drowning.

Where control equipment is required around water, it should be specifically appropriate to the activity, environment and individual animal.

Equipment selection should therefore be based on the demands of the activity rather than simply using standard walking equipment in every setting.

Safe Lead Handling Practices

Lead handling is an important safety consideration because incorrect handling may result in significant injury.

Handlers should avoid wrapping leads tightly around:

• fingers;
• hands;
• wrists;
• arms; or
• legs.

If an animal suddenly pulls, reacts or moves unexpectedly, a wrapped lead can transmit significant force and may result in:

• fractures;
• dislocations;
• soft tissue injuries;
• nerve damage; or
• other serious injury.

Jewellery, particularly rings, may also increase the severity of finger injuries where substantial lead force is applied.

Safe handling may include:

• maintaining a secure and functional grip;
• avoiding unnecessary loops around body parts;
• maintaining awareness of lead tension;
• using equipment appropriate to the handler’s capacity; and
• adapting techniques where disability or mobility needs require an alternative method.

Lead-handling techniques should be individualised rather than assuming that one grip or technique will be appropriate for every handler.

Animals can react suddenly due to:

• unexpected sounds;
• unfamiliar environments;
• other animals; and
• sudden movement.

Safe Lead Transfer

When transferring control of an animal between people, there should be a clear and deliberate handover.

A safe process may involve:

1. the receiving person establishing secure control of the lead or relevant equipment;
2. confirmation that the receiving person is ready; and
3. the original handler releasing control once the transfer is secure.

Leads should not be dropped or released unintentionally during handover.

Clear transfer processes may be particularly relevant during:

• assessments;
• training sessions;
• veterinary appointments;
• professional handovers; and
• emergencies.

Insurance, Liability and Risk Protection

Assistance animal practice involves interaction between people, animals, organisations and the public. Even with appropriate training, supervision and risk management, unexpected events may occur.

Insurance forms one component of responsible risk management.

It does not replace:

• safe practice;
• competency;
• supervision;
• documentation;
• ethical decision-making; or
• appropriate animal welfare practices.

Professional Indemnity Insurance

Professional Indemnity insurance may provide protection in relation to professional advice, assessment, recommendations and services, subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the particular policy.

Claims or allegations may involve matters such as:

• professional negligence;
• inadequate service delivery;
• failure to meet professional obligations; or
• harm allegedly resulting from professional advice.

Professionals should confirm that their insurance arrangements are appropriate to:

• their assistance animal-related work;
• the activities they undertake; and
• their professional scope.

Professionals should not assume that general insurance automatically covers every assistance animal-related activity.

Public Liability Insurance

Public Liability insurance may provide protection in relation to certain claims involving injury to another person or property damage, subject to the terms and exclusions of the policy.

This may be particularly relevant where services are provided in:

• shopping centres;
• workplaces;
• healthcare settings;
• community facilities; and
• transport environments.

Professionals and organisations should seek appropriate insurance advice for their particular activities rather than assuming a particular type of policy provides universal coverage.

Insurance Considerations for Assistance Animal Teams Working in Public Places

Where relevant, risk planning for public access may include consideration of:

• applicable insurance arrangements;
• handler responsibilities;
• animal suitability;
• equipment safety; and
• environmental risks.

Public access environments may involve interaction with:

• strangers;
• other animals;
• businesses; and
• public infrastructure.

Risk management should include consideration of whether:

• the animal is appropriately prepared;
• the handler understands relevant responsibilities;
• equipment is functional; and
• foreseeable hazards have been considered.

Animal Insurance and Veterinary Financial Planning

Assistance animals may experience:

• injury;
• illness;
• chronic conditions; and
• emergency veterinary needs.

Handlers and organisations should consider how routine and unexpected veterinary costs will be managed.

Financial planning may include:

• routine veterinary care;
• preventive healthcare;
• emergency treatment;
• medication;
• rehabilitation; and
• specialist veterinary services.

Pet insurance is one possible strategy but is not the only means of financial planning.

Policies vary and may contain exclusions relating to:

• pre-existing conditions;
• age;
• waiting periods; and
• particular treatments.

Handlers should carefully review policy terms and consider whether insurance or another financial strategy is appropriate to their circumstances.

Manual Handling and Physical Safety

Assistance animal practice involves regular physical interaction between people, animals, equipment and environments. Manual handling risks should be considered because unsafe physical tasks can result in injury to handlers, professionals, support people and animals.

Manual handling risks may occur during:

• lifting and moving crates;
• transporting equipment;
• assisting animals into vehicles;
• supporting injured or unwell animals;
• grooming and care activities;
• handling large or strong animals;
• repetitive lead handling; and
• bending, reaching or prolonged postures.

Professionals should recognise that animal-related manual handling differs from many workplace tasks because animals are living beings who may:

• move unpredictably;
• respond to pain or fear;
• resist handling; or
• change position suddenly.

Safe practice requires consideration of both the physical task and the animal’s behaviour.

Principles of Safe Manual Handling

Before completing a physical task, handlers and professionals should consider:

• Is this task necessary?
• Can the task be modified to reduce risk?
• Is assistance required?
• Is appropriate equipment available?
• Does the person have the capacity, support and training required to undertake the task safely?

Risk controls may include:

• using ramps instead of lifting;
• using appropriate transport equipment;
• requesting assistance;
• modifying the environment; and
• reducing unnecessary physical demands.

Importantly, a person’s disability does not itself mean that an activity is unsafe. Risk assessment should consider whether environmental modifications, assistive equipment, training, formal or informal support, task adaptation or other controls can enable safe participation.

Lifting and Moving Assistance Animals

Where lifting an animal is being considered, factors such as the following should be assessed:

• whether lifting is necessary;
• animal size and weight;
• handler or worker capacity;
• available assistance;
• animal temperament;
• animal health or pain;
• available equipment; and
• risk of injury to the person or animal.

Attempting to manually lift an animal beyond a person’s safe capacity may contribute to:

• back injury;
• muscle strain;
• falls;
• injury to the animal; and
• loss of control.

Where appropriate, alternatives or supports may include:

• ramps;
• steps;
• vehicle access aids;
• appropriate harness supports;
• mechanical or environmental modifications; and
• assistance from another person.

Handling Injured or Distressed Animals

Injured, frightened or distressed animals may behave differently from their usual behaviour.

Even highly trained assistance animals may:

• panic;
• attempt to escape;
• resist handling; or
• unintentionally injure a person.

Professionals should consider:

• the animal’s pain or distress;
• safety of the environment;
• whether veterinary assistance is required;
• whether handling should be minimised; and
• whether additional support is needed.

Safety and welfare should be considered for both the animal and people involved.

Safe Vehicle Transport of Assistance Animals

Assistance animals frequently travel in:

• private vehicles;
• organisational vehicles;
• taxis and rideshare services; and
• other transport services.

Transport environments create specific risks that should be considered to protect both the animal and people.

Unfamiliar Animals

Where an animal is unfamiliar to the person transporting it, such as a new prospect or animal whose behaviour or health status is not yet well understood, additional transport precautions may be appropriate.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include:

• secure containment;
• physical separation from vehicle occupants where appropriate;
• adequate ventilation;
• minimising unnecessary direct contact;
• consideration of allergen or contamination risks; and
• appropriate emergency planning.

Transport arrangements should consider:

• the animal’s size;
• behaviour;
• health status;
• travel duration;
• vehicle type; and
• requirements of the activity.

Where the animal’s behaviour, health status or history is unknown, controls should be proportionate to the foreseeable risk.

Transport arrangements should not unnecessarily compromise the animal’s welfare or create avoidable risks to vehicle occupants.

Vehicle Transport Risk Assessment

Before transporting an assistance animal, consideration should be given to:

• how the animal will enter and exit the vehicle;
• appropriate equipment;
• positioning of the animal;
• restraint or containment needs;
• temperature and ventilation;
• emergency access;
• travel duration; and
• toileting requirements.

Transport arrangements should be appropriate to:

• the animal’s size;
• health status;
• behaviour;
• mobility;
• working role; and
• individual needs.

Safe Vehicle Practices

Transport arrangements should minimise foreseeable risks associated with unnecessary movement, distraction, escape or injury.

Depending on the animal and vehicle, controls may include:

• secure positioning;
• appropriate restraints;
• suitable crates or barriers;
• adequate ventilation; and
• protection from injury.

Animals should not be positioned where they are likely to:

• interfere with driver visibility;
• interfere with vehicle controls;
• distract the driver; or
• be exposed to unnecessary injury risk.

Transport equipment should be maintained appropriately.

Crates, barriers and restraints should be:

• appropriate to their intended purpose;
• correctly fitted or installed;
• maintained in working order; and
• used according to manufacturer instructions where applicable.

Safe Transport, Public Etiquette and Assistance Animal Positioning

Transport arrangements should prioritise the safety and welfare of the animal, handler, driver, passengers and members of the public.

In moving vehicles, assistance animals should be appropriately positioned, restrained or contained in a manner suited to the animal, vehicle and circumstances.

The aim is to reduce risks associated with:

• unnecessary movement;
• interference with the driver;
• sudden braking;
• collisions;
• falls;
• entanglement; and
• escape.

Where an assistance animal is actively working during transport, positioning should also enable the animal to perform necessary disability-related tasks where this can be achieved safely.

The Four Paws on the Floor Principle

As a general public-access etiquette and hygiene principle, assistance animals should usually remain on the floor or another appropriate surface designated for animal use.

This approach can support:

• hygiene;
• public confidence;
• predictable positioning;
• safe movement; and
• respectful use of shared spaces.

Assistance animals would not ordinarily be placed on surfaces such as:

• food preparation surfaces;
• counters;
• tables;
• merchandise displays; or
• areas where their presence would create an avoidable hygiene or safety risk.

However, “four paws on the floor” should not be treated as an inflexible rule.

Some assistance animals may need to be positioned:

• on the handler’s lap;
• against the handler’s body;
• on furniture or another elevated surface;
• within a specialised carrier, stroller or mobility aid; or
• in another position

where this is reasonably necessary for the animal to perform a disability-related task or to accommodate the handler’s disability.

Examples may include:

• deep pressure tasks;
• medical alert or response tasks requiring close physical contact;
• small assistance animals working from the handler’s lap;
• positioning necessary because of the handler’s mobility or physical access needs; or
• use of equipment specifically designed for the assistance animal.

Where an elevated surface is used, reasonable consideration should be given to:

• hygiene;
• animal safety;
• public safety;
• the function being performed; and
• the nature of the environment.

For example, a clean mat, blanket or protective covering may be appropriate in some circumstances.

Facilities may also provide specifically designated animal-access areas or equipment.

The guiding principle is not rigid positioning, but ensuring that the assistance animal can perform its legitimate disability-related role while maintaining appropriate hygiene, safety and respectful shared access.

Private Vehicle Transport

Private vehicle transport should be planned according to the individual animal, handler, vehicle design and available restraint or containment systems.

Depending on the circumstances, appropriate options may include:

• a purpose-designed crate secured within the vehicle;
• an appropriate vehicle harness and restraint system;
• another purpose-designed animal transport restraint; or
• secure positioning appropriate to the animal and vehicle.

Where products are marketed as crash-tested, users should consider the nature of the testing and follow manufacturer installation and use instructions.

Crates should be appropriately secured rather than simply placed loose in a vehicle where they could move significantly during sudden braking or a collision.

Handlers should consider whether:

• restraints are correctly fitted;
• equipment is appropriately installed;
• attachment points are secure;
• equipment is regularly inspected; and
• the animal can travel without becoming trapped, injured or excessively distressed.

Vehicle Positioning Considerations

There is no single vehicle position that will be appropriate for every assistance animal, handler and vehicle.

Positioning should be determined through consideration of:

• vehicle design;
• animal size;
• handler needs;
• restraint or containment system;
• airbag locations;
• crash zones;
• access requirements;
• disability-related tasks; and
• manufacturer guidance.

As a general safety consideration, animals should be positioned so they cannot:

• interfere with steering, pedals or controls;
• obstruct driver visibility;
• move unpredictably into the driver’s area; or
• be placed unnecessarily within an airbag deployment zone.

Front passenger positioning may present additional risks because of airbags and vehicle impact forces and should therefore be carefully assessed rather than assumed to be appropriate.

Where rear-seat travel is used, consideration may be given to:

• appropriate restraint;
• secure positioning;
• gaps between seating areas;
• risk of falling into footwells; and
• purpose-designed seat platforms or extension systems where suitable.

Where a tether or harness system is used, it should be:

• appropriate for vehicle use;
• fitted correctly;
• attached to an appropriate connection point; and
• used according to manufacturer instructions.

Vehicle restraints should not be attached in a manner that creates foreseeable neck or strangulation injury.

Transport systems should be appropriate for the individual animal and regularly inspected for continued suitability.

Taxi and Rideshare Transport

When travelling in taxis, rideshare vehicles or similar transport, assistance animals should be positioned in a way that supports both the handler’s disability-related needs and safe shared use of the vehicle.

Depending on the circumstances, an animal may:

• remain in the footwell;
• sit or lie beside the handler;
• remain on the handler’s lap where appropriate;
• use specialised equipment; or
• occupy another safe position required for disability-related tasks.

Consideration should be given to:

• animal safety;
• handler needs;
• driver safety;
• hygiene;
• available space; and
• minimising obstruction to other passengers.

The footwell may be appropriate for many assistance dogs but should not be treated as the only acceptable position.

Public Transport Etiquette

Assistance animals may travel on public transport in accordance with applicable access arrangements and transport requirements.

Handlers should consider:

• the assistance animal;
• their own disability-related needs;
• other passengers;
• transport staff;
• exits and walkways; and
• the characteristics of the particular transport environment.

Where appropriate, an assistance animal may:

• remain under or beside the handler’s seat;
• remain safely on the floor;
• sit on the handler’s lap;
• use a mobility carrier or other appropriate equipment; or
• occupy another position necessary to perform disability-related tasks.

Positioning should, where reasonably practicable, avoid unnecessarily obstructing:

• walkways;
• emergency exits;
• vehicle controls; or
• accessibility features required by others.

Wheelchair and Mobility Device Considerations

Where an assistance animal uses a pram, stroller or similar carrier, the handler should consider both their own disability-related requirements and the accessibility needs of other passengers.

Where an allocated mobility space is required by another passenger, reasonable adjustments may sometimes include repositioning or folding equipment where this can be done safely and without removing an accommodation required by the assistance animal handler.

A person should not be expected to remove or modify an accommodation where doing so would:

• compromise their safety;
• prevent them from accessing the environment;
• prevent the assistance animal from performing required tasks; or
• conflict with their disability-related needs.

The goal is respectful shared access rather than automatically prioritising one person’s disability-related accommodation over another’s.

Additional Transport Safety Considerations

Transport practices should avoid foreseeable and unnecessary risk.

Potentially unsafe practices may include:

• permitting an animal to interfere with vehicle controls;
• allowing an animal to sit on the driver while the vehicle is moving;
• allowing an animal to obstruct driver visibility;
• allowing an animal to place its head substantially outside a moving vehicle; or
• failing to consider weather and environmental conditions.

Allowing an animal to place its head outside a moving vehicle window may expose it to risks including:

• eye injuries;
• ear injury;
• respiratory irritation; and
• impact from objects or debris.

Transport planning should protect:

• physical safety;
• comfort;
• welfare; and
• the animal’s ability to work effectively.

Heat and Vehicle Safety

Animals should not be left unattended in vehicles where environmental conditions create a foreseeable risk of heat stress, cold stress or other harm.

Heat can develop rapidly inside vehicles, even when external temperatures appear moderate.

Risk factors include:

• hot weather;
• direct sunlight;
• poor ventilation;
• vehicle design;
• duration;
• dark vehicle interiors; and
• inadequate water access.

Transport planning should consider:

• appropriate travel times;
• water availability;
• ventilation;
• rest breaks; and
• whether the animal can be safely removed from the vehicle when the handler leaves.

Travel Preparation

Depending on the journey, assistance animal teams may benefit from carrying:

• water;
• food where required;
• waste supplies;
• prescribed medication;
• emergency contact details;
• spare or backup equipment; and
• appropriate first aid supplies.

Longer journeys may require planning for:

• toileting breaks;
• rest periods;
• environmental changes;
• medication;
• food and water; and
• animal comfort.

Heat, Weather and Environmental Stress Management

Assistance animals may work across a variety of environmental conditions. Weather and environmental factors should be considered as part of ongoing risk management, including the temperature and condition of surfaces the animal is expected to traverse.

Animals may not always communicate discomfort in obvious ways, so handlers and professionals should understand signs of environmental stress.

Heat Management

Heat exposure may result in:

• dehydration;
• heat exhaustion;
• heat stroke;
• reduced performance; and
• serious illness or death.

Risk factors include:

• high temperatures;
• humidity;
• hot surfaces;
• prolonged activity;
• inadequate water access; and
• restricted rest opportunities.

Risk controls may include:

• avoiding peak heat periods;
• checking surface conditions;
• providing appropriate water access;
• allowing rest breaks;
• seeking shade or cooling; and
• reducing workload during extreme conditions.

Recognising Heat Stress

Signs may include:

• excessive panting;
• slowing down;
• seeking shade;
• reluctance to move;
• distress;
• altered behaviour;
• confusion; and
• collapse.

Suspected significant heat stress requires prompt action. Urgent veterinary assessment should be sought where clinically indicated or where serious signs are present.

Other Environmental Conditions

Risk assessment should also consider:

• storms;
• flooding;
• smoke and bushfire conditions;
• extreme cold;
• slippery surfaces; and
• other environmental hazards.

Assistance animal teams should consider contingency planning for foreseeable changing conditions.

Workload, Fatigue and Rest Management

Assistance animals are working partners, not machines. Safe practice requires consideration of workload, fatigue and recovery needs.

Successful task performance does not necessarily mean an animal is coping well. Some animals may continue working despite experiencing stress or fatigue.

Professionals and handlers should consider:

• duration of work;
• intensity of tasks;
• environmental demands;
• animal age;
• health status;
• individual temperament; and
• opportunities for recovery.

Signs an Animal May Require Rest

Indicators may include:

• reduced engagement;
• slower responses;
• increased distraction;
• avoidance behaviours;
• changes in body language;
• seeking distance; and
• reduced willingness to work.

Handlers should recognise these signs and respond appropriately.

Supporting Sustainable Working Partnerships

Assistance animals require opportunities for:

• rest;
• recovery;
• enrichment;
• downtime away from work;
• species-appropriate behaviour; and
• appropriate workload management.

Working should be balanced with opportunities for the animal to behave naturally and participate in normal activities.

A sustainable partnership prioritises both:

• human outcomes; and
• animal wellbeing.

Public Interaction and Safety

Assistance animals frequently work in environments where members of the public may not understand appropriate interaction.

Public interaction can create risks when people:

• touch the animal without permission;
• distract the animal;
• offer food;
• encourage play; or
• allow other animals to approach inappropriately.

An assistance animal wearing equipment should not automatically be considered available for interaction.

Supporting Safe Public Access

Handlers should be supported to:

• advocate for appropriate space;
• communicate boundaries;
• prevent or manage unwanted interaction; and
• maintain the animal’s ability to perform required tasks.

Professionals should recognise that protecting the animal’s ability to work safely is part of supporting the partnership.

Interaction With Other Animals

Assistance animals may encounter:

• pet dogs;
• off-leash animals;
• unfamiliar animals; and
• other working animals.

Risk management may include:

• maintaining appropriate distance;
• avoiding unnecessary greetings;
• recognising animal body language;
• identifying escape or avoidance options; and
• preventing unsafe interactions.

An assistance animal does not need to interact socially with every animal encountered.

Emergency Preparedness and Evacuation Planning

Assistance animal teams should be prepared for unexpected situations that may affect the safety of the handler, animal or surrounding community.

Emergencies may include:

• medical emergencies involving the handler;
• animal injury or illness;
• fire;
• flood;
• severe weather;
• building evacuation;
• equipment failure;
• environmental hazards; and
• public safety incidents.

Emergency planning should consider the unique needs of both the person and the assistance animal.

A plan that supports the handler but does not consider the animal may be ineffective, while a plan that considers only the animal may not adequately support the person.

Emergency Planning Considerations

Depending on the person’s circumstances, emergency planning may consider:

• emergency contacts;
• veterinary contact details;
• backup carers or support people;
• transport arrangements;
• human and animal medication requirements;
• animal identification information;
• access to food and water;
• spare equipment;
• communication needs;
• disability-related supports; and
• emergency supplies.

Emergency plans should consider situations where:

• the handler cannot communicate;
• the handler becomes unconscious or otherwise incapacitated;
• the handler is temporarily unable to physically manage the animal;
• ambulance or hospital transfer is required;
• the person and assistance animal become separated;
• the animal is injured or becomes unwell;
• the environment becomes unsafe; or
• evacuation is required.

Where appropriate, planning should identify who is authorised and able to care for the animal temporarily and how necessary food, medication, equipment and veterinary information can be accessed.

Emergency Evacuation Planning

Emergency evacuation procedures should consider:

• how the person and animal will exit safely;
• whether the handler requires assistance;
• whether necessary equipment is immediately accessible;
• whether the animal can be safely transported;
• where the animal may be accommodated;
• how the team will remain together where possible; and
• what contingency arrangements apply if temporary separation is unavoidable.

Potential barriers may include:

• crowded environments;
• alarms and sudden noises;
• unfamiliar evacuation routes;
• reduced access to usual equipment;
• changes to routine; and
• stress responses.

Assistance animals should be incorporated into emergency planning rather than considered only after an emergency occurs.

Emergency Equipment and Preparedness

Assistance animal teams should consider what emergency supplies are appropriate to their circumstances.

This may include:

• animal first aid supplies;
• human first aid supplies;
• water;
• food where appropriate;
• prescribed medication;
• veterinary information;
• spare equipment; and
• identification details.

First aid supplies should be readily accessible where they are reasonably likely to be required. Appropriate locations will depend on the person’s circumstances and may include the home, workplace, vehicle, training facility or travel kit.

Possessing first aid equipment alone is insufficient. Handlers and professionals should understand:

• what equipment is available;
• how it can be used safely;
• the limits of first aid;
• when professional medical or veterinary assistance is required; and
• how to obtain emergency assistance.

First aid preparedness should therefore combine appropriate equipment with knowledge, planning and access to professional assistance.

Incident Reporting, Near Misses and Learning

Incident reporting is an important component of workplace health and safety, professional accountability and continuous improvement.

Incidents should not only be viewed as failures or problems. They can provide valuable information about where systems, environments, equipment, communication or practices may need improvement.

Incidents may include:

• injury to a person;
• injury to an animal;
• equipment failure;
• unsafe environmental conditions;
• public access incidents;
• behavioural incidents;
• biological or chemical exposure;
• transport-related incidents; and
• near misses.

Internal Reporting and Statutory Notification

It is important to distinguish between internal incident reporting and statutory notification to a WHS regulator.

Organisations should have processes for reporting and responding to hazards, incidents, injuries, animal-related events and near misses.

Internal reporting supports:

• immediate risk management;
• appropriate care and support;
• investigation;
• corrective action;
• documentation;
• organisational learning; and
• continuous improvement.

However, not every internally reported incident is a notifiable incident under WHS legislation.

A notifiable incident is a category of serious work-related event that must be notified to the relevant Commonwealth, state or territory WHS/OHS regulator where the applicable legislation requires it.

Practitioners should therefore:

• promptly report workplace incidents through applicable organisational processes;
• recognise when an incident may meet a statutory notification threshold;
• ensure the relevant PCBU or responsible person is informed without delay;
• follow the requirements of the WHS/OHS legislation applying in their jurisdiction; and
• seek guidance from the relevant regulator where there is uncertainty about notification requirements.

Internal reporting requirements may be broader than statutory notification requirements.

An event may therefore require organisational reporting, investigation and review even when it does not require notification to a WHS regulator.

Near Miss Reporting

A near miss occurs when an event could reasonably have caused harm but did not.

Examples may include:

• a lead showing signs of failure before breaking;
• an animal almost slipping on an unsafe surface;
• damaged equipment being identified before use;
• a person nearly tripping over animal equipment;
• an assistance animal narrowly avoiding contact with an uncontrolled animal; or
• a foreseeable public interaction risk being prevented before harm occurred.

Near misses can provide valuable opportunities to identify and address risk before injury, illness or other harm occurs.

A positive safety culture encourages appropriate reporting of:

• incidents;
• concerns;
• hazards; and
• near misses.

Near-miss reporting should not be used primarily to assign blame. Its purpose is to identify system weaknesses, emerging hazards and opportunities for prevention.

Notifiable Incidents

Some serious workplace incidents are subject to mandatory notification requirements under applicable WHS/OHS legislation.

Depending on the jurisdiction and the legislation in force, notifiable incidents may include specified work-related events involving:

• the death of a person;
• serious injury or illness;
• dangerous incidents exposing a person to serious risk; and
• other categories prescribed or adopted within the relevant jurisdiction.

A dangerous incident may potentially be notifiable even where no person is actually injured.

Notifiable incidents are not limited to incidents affecting employees.

Depending on the circumstances and applicable legislation, an incident may involve:

• a worker;
• contractor;
• client;
• support person;
• member of the public; or
• another person affected by the conduct of the business or undertaking.

Jurisdictional Requirements

Notification requirements are established under the WHS/OHS legislation applying in the relevant jurisdiction.

Practitioners should not assume that a single national definition, threshold or reporting process applies uniformly throughout Australia.

Model WHS provisions may change over time, and individual jurisdictions may adopt amendments at different times or retain jurisdiction-specific requirements.

Occupational Therapists and organisations should therefore check the current requirements of their relevant Commonwealth, state or territory WHS/OHS regulator when determining whether an incident is notifiable.

Responsibility for Notification

Under WHS legislation based on the model framework, the statutory duty to notify generally rests with the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) rather than with an individual worker merely because they witnessed or were involved in the incident.

Workers and practitioners nevertheless play an important role in ensuring potentially notifiable incidents are escalated promptly.

Occupational Therapists should:

• obtain urgent medical, veterinary or emergency assistance where required;
• take reasonable steps to prevent further harm;
• promptly report the event through relevant organisational processes;
• immediately alert the PCBU, manager or other responsible person where the event may be notifiable;
• provide accurate information about what occurred; and
• cooperate with any subsequent investigation or regulatory process.

Occupational Therapists who operate as sole traders or otherwise conduct their own business or undertaking may themselves hold PCBU responsibilities and should understand the notification requirements applying to their practice.

Immediate Notification

Where an incident meets the statutory definition of a notifiable incident, the relevant WHS/OHS regulator may require notification immediately after the duty holder becomes aware of the incident.

The exact notification process, timeframe and information required should be confirmed with the regulator responsible for the jurisdiction.

Safe Work Australia develops national policy and model WHS laws but is not the regulator to which workplace incidents are ordinarily notified.

Where there is uncertainty about whether an incident is notifiable, advice should be obtained promptly from the relevant regulator.

Preserving the Incident Site

Where required under applicable WHS/OHS legislation, the site of a notifiable incident may need to be preserved until released by an inspector or until the regulator otherwise permits disturbance.

Site-preservation requirements should not prevent actions that are necessary to:

• assist an injured person;
• remove a deceased person where permitted;
• make the site safe;
• prevent further injury or another serious incident;
• support an authorised police investigation; or
• undertake another action permitted by legislation or the regulator.

Practitioners should avoid unnecessarily disturbing:

• equipment;
• environmental conditions;
• damaged materials;
• vehicle or restraint systems;
• other physical evidence; or
• relevant records

following a potentially notifiable incident.

Where relevant, photographs, electronic records, equipment records, witness details and other evidence should be preserved in accordance with applicable legal and organisational requirements.

Assistance Animal Practice Examples

An incident should not be assumed to be notifiable simply because an assistance animal was involved.

The relevant question is whether the event meets the statutory threshold under the WHS/OHS legislation applying to the work.

Potentially serious events might include circumstances such as:

• a person sustaining a serious injury during an animal-related workplace activity;
• a serious fall associated with equipment, environmental conditions or animal movement;
• a dangerous incident exposing a worker, client or member of the public to serious risk;
• a severe biological or chemical exposure arising from work activities; or
• another serious work-related event meeting the relevant legislative definition.

By contrast, an animal injury or illness may require:

• veterinary care;
• organisational incident reporting;
• animal welfare reporting;
• insurance notification;
• review of risk controls; or
• another form of professional or organisational response

without necessarily being a notifiable incident under WHS legislation.

The same event may also trigger more than one reporting pathway. For example, an incident could potentially require:

• internal organisational reporting;
• notification to a WHS/OHS regulator;
• animal welfare reporting;
• professional or clinical documentation;
• insurance notification;
• notification to another relevant authority; or
• communication with the client or support network.

Practitioners should identify which reporting obligations apply rather than assuming that completion of one report satisfies all requirements.

Key Distinction

All statutory notifiable incidents should also be managed through appropriate organisational reporting processes, but not all internally reported incidents or near misses are legally notifiable to a WHS/OHS regulator.

Practitioners should understand both systems and know how to escalate an incident where statutory notification may be required.

Jurisdictional Requirements

Notification requirements are established under the WHS/OHS legislation applying in the relevant jurisdiction.

Practitioners should not assume that a single national definition, threshold or reporting process applies uniformly throughout Australia.

Model WHS provisions may change over time, and individual jurisdictions may adopt amendments at different times or retain jurisdiction-specific requirements.

Occupational Therapists and organisations should therefore check the current requirements of their relevant Commonwealth, state or territory WHS/OHS regulator when determining whether an incident is notifiable.

Responsibility for Notification

Under WHS legislation based on the model framework, the statutory duty to notify generally rests with the person conducting a business or undertaking (PCBU) rather than with an individual worker merely because they witnessed or were involved in the incident.

Workers and practitioners nevertheless play an important role in ensuring potentially notifiable incidents are escalated promptly.

Occupational Therapists should:

• obtain urgent medical, veterinary or emergency assistance where required;
• take reasonable steps to prevent further harm;
• promptly report the event through relevant organisational processes;
• immediately alert the PCBU, manager or other responsible person where the event may be notifiable;
• provide accurate information about what occurred; and
• cooperate with any subsequent investigation or regulatory process.

Occupational Therapists who operate as sole traders or otherwise conduct their own business or undertaking may themselves hold PCBU responsibilities and should understand the notification requirements applying to their practice.

Immediate Notification

Where an incident meets the statutory definition of a notifiable incident, the relevant WHS/OHS regulator may require notification immediately after the duty holder becomes aware of the incident.

The exact notification process, timeframe and information required should be confirmed with the regulator responsible for the jurisdiction.

Safe Work Australia develops national policy and model WHS laws but is not the regulator to which workplace incidents are ordinarily notified.

Where there is uncertainty about whether an incident is notifiable, advice should be obtained promptly from the relevant regulator.

Preserving the Incident Site

Where required under applicable WHS/OHS legislation, the site of a notifiable incident may need to be preserved until released by an inspector or until the regulator otherwise permits disturbance.

Site-preservation requirements should not prevent actions that are necessary to:

• assist an injured person;
• remove a deceased person where permitted;
• make the site safe;
• prevent further injury or another serious incident;
• support an authorised police investigation; or
• undertake another action permitted by legislation or the regulator.

Practitioners should avoid unnecessarily disturbing:

• equipment;
• environmental conditions;
• damaged materials;
• vehicle or restraint systems;
• other physical evidence; or
• relevant records

following a potentially notifiable incident.

Where relevant, photographs, electronic records, equipment records, witness details and other evidence should be preserved in accordance with applicable legal and organisational requirements.

Assistance Animal Practice Examples

An incident should not be assumed to be notifiable simply because an assistance animal was involved.

The relevant question is whether the event meets the statutory threshold under the WHS/OHS legislation applying to the work.

Potentially serious events might include circumstances such as:

• a person sustaining a serious injury during an animal-related workplace activity;
• a serious fall associated with equipment, environmental conditions or animal movement;
• a dangerous incident exposing a worker, client or member of the public to serious risk;
• a severe biological or chemical exposure arising from work activities; or
• another serious work-related event meeting the relevant legislative definition.

By contrast, an animal injury or illness may require:

• veterinary care;
• organisational incident reporting;
• animal welfare reporting;
• insurance notification;
• review of risk controls; or
• another form of professional or organisational response

without necessarily being a notifiable incident under WHS legislation.

The same event may also trigger more than one reporting pathway. For example, an incident could potentially require:

• internal organisational reporting;
• notification to a WHS/OHS regulator;
• animal welfare reporting;
• professional or clinical documentation;
• insurance notification;
• notification to another relevant authority; or
• communication with the client or support network.

Practitioners should identify which reporting obligations apply rather than assuming that completion of one report satisfies all requirements.

Key Distinction

All statutory notifiable incidents should also be managed through appropriate organisational reporting processes, but not all internally reported incidents or near misses are legally notifiable to a WHS/OHS regulator.

Practitioners should understand both systems and know how to escalate an incident where statutory notification may be required.

Incident Response

Following an incident, appropriate actions may include:

• ensuring immediate safety;
• providing first aid within the person’s competence;
• obtaining medical or veterinary assistance where required;
• removing or controlling ongoing hazards where this does not conflict with applicable site-preservation requirements;
• notifying emergency services where required;
• escalating potentially notifiable incidents;
• documenting what occurred;
• preserving relevant evidence;
• meeting applicable organisational or statutory reporting requirements; and
• reviewing contributing factors.

Professionals should avoid focusing solely on individual blame.

Incident review should consider factors such as:

• environmental conditions;
• animal behaviour or welfare;
• equipment;
• systems and procedures;
• communication;
• training and competency;
• workload;
• supervision;
• organisational arrangements; and
• opportunities for improvement.

Where an incident indicates that an existing control was ineffective, the risk-management process should be reviewed and additional or alternative controls considered.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Accurate documentation supports safe practice, accountability and ongoing improvement.

Records should be maintained appropriately for activities involving assistance animals.

Relevant documentation may include:

• risk assessments;
• equipment checks;
• incident and near-miss reports;
• statutory notification records where applicable;
• training records;
• assessment records;
• consent documentation;
• communication records;
• corrective-action records; and
• insurance information.

Importance of Documentation

Good documentation supports:

• continuity of care;
• professional accountability;
• evidence-informed decision-making;
• quality improvement;
• incident investigation;
• insurance processes;
• regulatory compliance where applicable; and
• organisational learning.

Records should be:

• accurate;
• timely;
• objective;
• securely stored; and
• accessible to authorised people where required.

Documentation should reflect both human and animal considerations.

For example, records may include:

• handler goals;
• environmental risks;
• animal welfare considerations;
• equipment requirements;
• incidents and near misses;
• controls implemented; and
• review outcomes.

Documentation should be proportionate to the activity and risk rather than generated solely for administrative purposes.

Professional Scope and Collaboration

Safe assistance animal practice requires professionals to understand their role, responsibilities and limitations.

Occupational Therapists and other professionals should work within their scope of practice and recognise when collaboration, consultation or referral is required.

Examples may include:

• veterinary assessment for animal health concerns;
• qualified trainer involvement for training matters;
• appropriate animal behaviour professional involvement;
• medical or allied health consultation;
• infection-control advice;
• WHS or legal advice where required; and
• additional clinical support.

Professionals should not provide advice or undertake activities outside their competence merely because the matter arises within an assistance animal context.

Effective assistance animal practice may involve collaboration between:

• Occupational Therapists;
• assistance animal trainers;
• veterinarians;
• animal behaviour professionals;
• healthcare professionals;
• handlers;
• family members;
• support workers;
• WHS personnel; and
• other relevant members of the person’s support network.

Key Practice Principles

Safe assistance animal practice requires ongoing attention to:

Person + Animal + Environment + Equipment + Welfare + Risk Management

A safe and effective assistance animal partnership is supported by:

• appropriate and proportionate risk assessment;
• safe and accessible environments;
• suitable equipment;
• responsible handling and management;
• animal welfare protection;
• emergency preparedness;
• appropriate incident reporting and escalation;
• professional accountability;
• collaboration; and
• continuous learning.

Risk management should not be used to unnecessarily restrict a person’s autonomy or occupational participation.

The presence of disability, need for assistance, use of adaptive equipment or reliance on formal or informal support does not itself establish that an assistance animal partnership is unsafe or unsuitable.

Where risks are identified, consideration should be given to whether they can be appropriately managed through:

• environmental modification;
• assistive technology;
• equipment;
• training;
• routines;
• formal or informal supports;
• task modification;
• contingency planning; and
• other reasonable safeguards.

Safe practice therefore involves balancing risk management, dignity, autonomy, participation and animal welfare rather than attempting to eliminate all uncertainty from everyday life.

Safety is not a single action. It is an ongoing process of identifying risks, implementing proportionate controls, responding appropriately to incidents, reviewing outcomes and improving practice.