Welfare of Animals (Transport) Order (Northern Ireland) 1997

Article 9(2)

SCHEDULE 8 Knowledge and ability to be possessed by a “competent person”

1.  Knowledge of which persons are responsible for the welfare of animals during each stage of transport.

2.  Understanding of when to seek veterinary help and knowledge of which body or organisation or body to contact with general questions, for example, about transport conditions, matters of law or documentation.

3.  Elementary knowledge of the causes of stress and distress in animals; ability to recognise the signs of stress, distress and ill health, and basic knowledge of how to reduce the symptoms and, where possible, to remove or ameliorate the causes of that stress, distress or ill health.

4.  Knowledge of, and ability to utilise, the appropriate methods of handling animals during loading and unloading, including the use of visual fields and flight zones, lighting and the appropriate use of such things as sticks, boards, blindfolds and electric goads. Knowledge of which handling methods are permissible and which are prohibited.

5.  Knowledge of stocking densities (effects of overcrowding and under-stocking) and headroom and segregation requirements, taking into account the species being transported, method of transport, gender, condition, age, length of journey and ambient conditions.

6.  Understanding of the significance for animal welfare of temperature, both inside and outside the vehicle, including the effect on different species and the need for adjustment of ventilation.

7.  Knowledge of the specific requirements of this Order relating to different species for rest, feed and liquid.

8.  Knowledge of the vehicle construction and use requirements in current welfare legislation.

9.  Ability to care for animals which become unfit or injured during transport, including an understanding of when to seek veterinary advice. Knowledge of the limited circumstances when it is permissible to transport unfit animals for veterinary treatment or slaughter.

10.  Ability to clean and disinfect vehicles and knowledge of when it is necessary to do so before and after a journey.

11.  Ability to plan a journey (taking into account such factors as maximum travelling times, required rest periods, and the time taken to load and unload). Ability to anticipate changing conditions and make contingencies for unforeseen circumstances.

12.  Understanding when documentation required in accordance with Article 14 or a route plan is required, and ability to complete these documents.

13.  Basic knowledge of the licensing requirements for transporters and when such licences are necessary.

14.  Ability to load, operate and control a vehicle safely, efficiently and effectively so as to ensure the welfare of the animals.

15.  Knowledge of the powers of enforcement authorities to inspect animals, documentation and vehicles before, during and after the journey.