Work Guide No. 14

COLLECT AND MANAGE DATA AHCWRK502A

A Footprint to data collection for sustainable decisions

Workforce Innovations Program Project 275

Materials produced by Regional Skills Training Pty Ltd Funding provided by the DIISRTE Workforce Innovations Program

2AHCWRK502A Collect and Manage Data

CONTENTS

01 About yourself 03

02 Trouble with website links 03

03 How are these materials used 03

04 What are these learning materials about 04

05 Employability skills 05

06 Unit descriptor and how the unit applies to your workplace 05

07 Determine the type and extent of data to be collected 06

08 Access and collate data 16

09 Evaluate data 41

10 Manage and retrieve data 44

11 Analyse and interpret data 47

12 Summary of key innovations/opportunities as a result of adopting these skills 55

13 Bibliography and source material 56

14 Being confident about your skill levels 61

15 Assessment 62

COPYRIGHT NOTICEBridging the Gap between Chemical and Organic Food and Fibre Production.

These interactive workbooks were produced by Regional Skills Training and funded by Department of Industry, Innovation, Science, Research and Tertiary Education, Workforce Innovations Program and are intended for free use to any student, RTO or school. Note that any work is copyright and should not be reproduced or copied for commercial gain.

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Activity I Fact I Website


1 ABOUT YOURSELFPlease fill in your details below and save this PDF to your files.Name

Phone

Email

2 TROUBLE WITH WEBSITE LINKSSometimes you may click on a web link and the site will say it is not available. Please revisit the site when you are next working on your resource materials as web sites are sometimes off line for maintenance reasons.

If you are consistently unable to access a site you are free to answer any associated workbook activity or assessment question by searching for and finding an alternative site that you feel is applicable. PLEASE INCLUDE THE LINK IN YOUR ANSWERS so we know where to look to check your information.

3 HOW ARE THESE MATERIALS USEDThis workbook has a strong focus on the self-directed application of knowledge. Completing this workbook and all formative assessments will thoroughly prepare you for your summative assessment. On successful completion of appropriate summative assessments provided by your Registered Training Organisation (RTO), you will achieve competency in this unit.

Please complete the feedback form at the back of the unit and advise us of any

links that do not work


This workbook has a strong focus on the self-directed application of knowledge.

4 WHAT ARE THESE LEARNING MATERIALS ABOUTThis workbook applies to managers and supervisors with a job function that covers the process of collecting, analysing and managing data to ensure improved knowledge and enable sound judgments in your production systems. This workbook defines the standard required to:

Identify data requirements and establish sampling and data collection techniques Collect and collate data using standardised recording sheets and systems Review sampling and data collection techniques based on validity and reliability of the data Manage data to facilitate retrieval and analysis Analyse data using appropriate statistical and analytical techniques Draw conclusions based on reasoned argument and appropriate evidence Produce a report in required format with information and data presented to support decision making.

This workbook has a strong focus on the self-directed application of knowledge with substantial depth in the areas of:

Data collection techniques and procedures Data recording and evaluation techniques Data analysis and interpretive techniques Data storage and retrieval methods Data reporting methods.


5 EMPLOYABILITY SKILLSThis work book provides an opportunity to develop and apply employability skills that are learnt throughout work and life, to your job.

The statements below list the typical employability skills that should be applied in a situation related to collecting and managing data.

In completing your daily work tasks, activities and summative assessments related to this unit of competence, you must be able to demonstrate that you are applying the employability skills listed below to this competency.

Communication skills Identify and accurately report problems Organisational skills Teamwork skills Technological skills Use mathematical ideas and techniques.

6UNIT DESCRIPTOR AND HOW THE UNIT APPLIES TO YOUR WORKPLACEThis unit of competency applies to managers and supervisors whose job functions include the identification of data to be collected, access and collation of data and the subsequent; evaluation, analysis, interpretation and reporting of data. The focus of this workbook is on the collection and management of data relevant to quality assurance and risk management activities within an agricultural or horticultural enterprise.

Data may include primary and secondary sources including field work and trials, research materials, published books, academic reports, industry reports, colleagues, computer software, internet, newspapers, photographic data, journals, industry publications, industry specialists and experts.

The work book provides an opportunity to develop and apply employability skills that are learnt


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7DETERMINE THE TYPE AND EXTENT OF DATA TO BE COLLECTEDLandholders in the 21st century will more than ever be driven to work smarter within their natural resources, to not only maintain, but improve the environment for subsequent generations and at the same time, make a profit from the land. Making good decisions is paramount to making this business model work. Good decisions require good data (i.e. timely, complete, reliable, consistent and accurate).

So how do you go about determining what data to collect for your enterprise? The selection of what to monitor will be unique to your goals and the specific situation of your business or enterprise. However, the data you do collect should enable you to publicly and privately demonstrate how you are performing against your goals and any given performance indicator. It should also provide reliable information on which you may make decisions to continuously improve your practices. As your business evolves, the data you collect will also evolve.

So the best place to start may be to consider:

The goals and objectives of your business/enterprise.

How you will achieve these goals/objectives?

What performance indicators you will use to measure whether you are on track?

Any regulatory requirements for data collection that you must meet (e.g. quality assurance, legislative reporting requirements, OHS).

The following examples are provided to help you start your research. The sites may not be applicable to your business, but if you have a look at them it will give you a clear understanding of the type of data you need to research to find information useful to your enterprise objectives.

The following extract from Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) would be useful for any manager involved in the beef industry to understand the data collection requirements needed to demonstrate compliance with the National Vendor Declaration (NVD) or Livestock Production Assurance (LPA). Meat and Livestock Australia; Audit Checklist Livestock Production Assurance; Australia; 2012.

www.mla.com.au/Meat-safety-and-traceability/Livestock-Production-Assurance/LPA-QA

The most recent edition of the National Vendor Declaration (NVD) incorporates the on-farm food safety program called Livestock Production Assurance (LPA), which asks producers to be able to back up their NVDs by keeping records of on-farm management practices such as:

What records are maintained and how they are maintained?

Food safety-related management practices.

Management of property facilities relating to food safety, including chemical storage areas.


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Now look at this You Tube video of Watercress Lane Duck Eggs UK which is a family run business: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBLEgkYMIj4

While you are watching this video, consider the data that this business might need to collect to determine whether the business goals are being met, the data required to demonstrate safety of their egg products, OHS regulations, the traceability of the product from paddock to plate and customer satisfaction.

The growing need for producers to demonstrate greater environmental responsibility and transparency is evidenced in the following extract from the dairy industry where there is a clear need to develop sustainability reporting programs for dairy managers.Dairy Australia; Performance Indicators; Australia; 2012.

www.dairyaustralia.com.au/Levy-investment/Natural-resource-management/Measurement/Performance-indicators.aspx

Awareness on environmental sustainability has grown rapidly over the last 10 years resulting in a greater degree of scrutiny on products and services. As community concerns about the environment continue to grow, Australias milk manufacturers are being asked to demonstrate greater environmental responsibility and transparency.

Department of Primary Industries Victoria; Farm Planning Resources; Victoria; 2012. www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/business-management/whole-farm-planning/farm-planning-resources

Legal and regulatory obligations for specific industries: Biodiversity, Chemical Use, Occupational Health and Safety, Livestock Management, Noxious Weed and Pest Animals, Soil Management, Waste management, Water.

Throughout this workbook you will be asked to complete a number of activities to demonstrate your understanding of the subjects being discussed. To get the most out of these activities, you need to make the activities applicable to your business. Use the extracts in this workbook (in this section and in the bibliography at the end of the workbook) and other sources to assist your research. Please include reference sources of information that you have used in your responses to enable us to check these sources as required.


Activity 1

Using your own business plans, farm plans and general research, answer the following questions as they relate to your business.

Question ResponseBriefly describe your enterprise and your products/services.

What are the goals of your business (i.e. the vision for your business?).

What are the objectives of your business? (i.e. these are how the goals will be achieved).

Do you have any performance indicators that enable you to measure your progress towards achieving these objectives? If so, please list them.

What legislative/regulatory requirements must you conform to?

Make an honest appraisal of your ability to publicly demonstrate your compliance with these legislative/regulatory requirements.

Consider all of the responses above and now identify what data you need to collect to be able to support your business requirements, demonstrate whether you are on track and conform to legislative/regulatory requirements. Indicate whether these exist (E) or are new (N).


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Relevant Data Sources are Identified

You have identified what data is required to be collected to support your business requirements. Now you have to determine:

Where will you source this data from What is the type and extent of the data that

you will require

Consider some of the following sources of information:

Historical farm records, Farm diaries, photographic data

Field work, trials and research materials and surveys Published books, newspapers, journals and

academic reports Industry reports and publications Colleagues, industry specialists and experts Computer software and internet

The following extracts provide some further examples of primary and secondary sources of information:

Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation; The Australian Ginger Industry Overview of Market Trends and Opportunities;2009; P12. www.dpi.qld.gov.au/documents/BusinessAndTrade_BusinessDevelopment/Australian-ginger-industry-report.pdf

Information from this report was collected from both secondary and primary sources.

Secondary sources: Preliminary desktop research was conducted to identify global trends in harvesting and production, and to obtain background information regarding ginger production and processing in Australia. The findings provided the basis for developing in-depth interview questionnaires for ginger growers, processors and wholesalers based in Queensland. Information sources included the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the Food and Agriculture Organisation Statistics Division (FAOSTAT), Market Information Services and the Australian Quarantine Inspection Service.

Primary sources: Surveys were conducted with 16 ginger growers and one industry consultant located in the Sunshine Coast and Wide Bay Burnett regions. Ten of the selected growers were interviewed face to face at their properties during November 2008. Growers interviewed were selected based on advice from the Australian Ginger Growers Association (AGGA) and Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries (QPIF) staff. The other six participants responded to a mail-out questionnaire that was distributed among registered members of the AGGA between October and December 2008.

MLA; Transport Audit and Data Collection for Current Practices Project code: AHW.125; Australia; 2007. www.mla.com.au/Research-and-development/Final-report-details?projectid=12997

This study represents an industry driven initiative to improve understanding of the complex animal/journey interactions which are part of land transport of livestock in Australia with a particular focus on animal welfare outcomes (mortalities and injury or illness) and journeys longer than 6 hours. A staged approach was used to first examine the usefulness of retrospective information derived from stored records on transport events as a way of meeting the study objectives. The second stage involved a pilot study in one state to develop and test methods for collecting data from transport events as they occurred (prospective data collection). The third stage for this project involved the preparation of a project proposal designed to apply the methods developed in stage 2 to multiple states and territories around Australia in order to be able to produce a nationally representative picture of land transport practices across Australia for journeys greater than 6 hours.

As you can see there are a wide variety of data sources available to you. Which ones you use will be dependent upon your own circumstances.

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AHCWRK502A Collect and Manage Data

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Activity 2

In the previous activity you identified a range of data that you would need to collect to support your business. List these in the following table and now identify the data sources that you will use to collect this information.

Data To Be Collected Source of Data Reference if Applicable

Type and Extent of Data Required and Data Collection Methods and Techniques are Clearly Defined

Now that you have identified the data you need to collect and its sources, you need to consider:

Type and extent of data to be collected? How it will be collected diary, checklists, data collection templates, electronic information system at the

point of data collection? Who will collect data you or your staff? What training will be required? Where it will be collected? When it will be collected daily, weekly, monthly, annual, once only, by exception?

This is an important part of planning your data collection. Data collection needs to be kept simple and practical if it is to be adopted by you and your team. It also needs to be integrated into everyday business practices at logical points. In this way, it will become the norm rather than the exception. Have a look at the following extracts to get a feel for how different industries approach data collection methods and techniques. As you are reading these, think about the approaches that would work best for your situation.

Meat and Livestock Australia; LPA Record Keeping; Australia; 2012. www.mla.com.au/Meat-safety-and-traceability/On-farm-assurance/LPA/Record-keeping

Producers need to keep good records to support Australias global reputation as a source of safe and traceable red meat. These records act as proof of responsible on-farm risk management. Good records also allow claims made on the Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) National Vendor Declaration and Waybill (LPA NVD/Waybill) to be substantiated. Producers can easily check, for example, when livestock were most recently chemically treated and therefore when they can be sent to market, confident that they will be outside withholding periods (WHP) and export slaughter intervals (ESI).

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Dairy Food Safety Victoria; Technical Standards; Australia; 2012. www.dairysafe.vic.gov.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=70&Itemid=245

Data collection for milk cooling validation on dairy farms Provides important information for the validation of milk cooling practices on dairy farms.

NSW Food Authority; NSW Shellfish Industry Manual Requirements to Comply with the Seafood Safety Scheme of the Food Regulation 2010 and Standard 4.2.1 of the Food Standards Code; May 2010; P19-20. www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/_Documents/industry_pdf/NSW_Shellfish_Industry_Manual.pdf

For the purposes of complying with Clause 121 of the Food Regulation 2010, a seafood business collecting or harvesting shellfish must comply with the sampling and analyses provisions. The holder of a licence must ensure that every analysis is carried out in a laboratory approved by the National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA), or by the Authority, for the particular type of analysis to be undertaken.

And finally, the following extract provides an example of a soil monitoring program developed by farmers for farmers. It is based on 10 soil health tests/observations and it includes instructions on how to; conduct each test, record the results and analyse the results against key performance indicators. The tests are conducted on an annual basis across a number of soil sample sites. This is a good example of how you might go about developing data collection, including; instructions, data collection templates and how to validate or grade the results based on ranges, to give feedback to operators quickly.

NSW Agriculture, Tuckombil Landcare, Natural Heritage Trust; Northern Rivers Soil Health Cardwww.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/resources/soils/testing/health-card

The aim was to develop a practical tool that all landholders in the Northern Rivers Region can use to monitor the health of their soils. The soil health card lists the 10 tests and provides space for you to rate your own soils after carrying out the tests. By testing regularly and keeping the cards, you can build up a record of your soil health, and understand the effect of management practices on soil health. Regular testing will show improvements in response to more sustainable management such as use of mulch in orchards, or minimum tillage in crop rotations, and allow early detection of developing soil problems.

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Activity 3

Copy the data from your previous activity into the following table. Now update the table with the following information: data elements, extent of data, frequency of collection, who will collect the data and how it will be collected (methods and techniques). An example has been provided to illustrate how to complete this table. Remember, this activity should be of use to your business (now or in the future). Only include those data collection activities that you have or are likely to implement.

Data To Be Collected

Source of Data

What Data Will Be Collected? (Data elements)

Extent of Data (i.e. sample, census, one year of data only, specific areas)

Frequency of Collection (i.e. daily, weekly)

Who will Collect the Data?

How will the Data be Collected? (Methods/Techniques)

Paddock Treatment Record

Farm operator MLA website

Date Paddock ID Area Product Batch No. Application rate and method Expiry date/ Date of Manufacture WHP/ESI/EGI Date paddock safe to graze

Records to be kept for every treatment event

Same day as paddock treatment

Operator Operator will complete a hardcopy paddock treatment record at the end of the treatment. This is kept in the chemical shed for ease of access. There is a sign on the back of the shed door that reminds operators of the need to update the paddock treatment record before leaving.

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Data To Be Collected

Source of Data

What Data Will Be Collected? (Data elements)

Extent of Data (i.e. sample, census, one year of data only, specific areas)

Frequency of Collection (i.e. daily, weekly)

Who will Collect the Data?

How will the Data be Collected? (Methods/Techniques)

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OHS Hazards Associated with Data Collecting are Identified

An important aspect that must be considered in data collection activities is workplace and personal safety. Look at the following extracts and links that demonstrate typical OHS issues that may apply during a data collection activity.

University of Sydney Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety; Factsheet 6 Ergonomics and Manual Handling on Farms; Australia; 2012. www.aghealth.org.au/index.php?id=5030

Nearly all tasks on farms involve ergonomic problems. The common ones which should always be assessed include:

Machinery Operation Using workshop tools Using equipment for example, a wool press or

hammer mill Manual Handling Stock Handling

Lyn Fragar and James Houlahan; AUSTRALIAN APPROACHES TO THE PREVENTION OF FARM INJURY; NSW Public Health Bulletin; Vol 13; No 5; pp 103-104. www.publish.csiro.au/?act=view_file&file_id=NB02044.pdf

University of Sydney Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety; Resources Hazard Checklists with Action Plans; Australia; 2012. www.aghealth.org.au/index.php?id=5030

If you go into the above link and click on the tab Farmer Resources you can download practical guidelines and resources to get started with a safety program for the farm. (THESE RESOURCES ARE FREE TO DOWNLOAD AND USE.)

The resources that are available are:

OHS Introduction that introduces you to the key principals of farm safety programs.

Hazard Checklists with Action plans that provides help to find the common safety hazards on all farms, with plans for making the farm safer.

Safety Induction Templates these provide guidelines for safety induction for workers and contractors.

Training Register help to keep your records of training for your workers.

Injury Register this will help you learn from injuries that occur and put in place the necessary improvements.

Safety Guides there are a number of safety guides to help you find the right solution to just about all the common safety risks on farms. Have a look at all the headings, these are really useful and are industry endorsed.

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Activity 4

Consider the risk of injury associated with the collection of the data you have specified for your business.

What are they and are they likely to occur?

What measures will you implement to mitigate these risks?

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8 ACCESS AND COLLATE DATA Now that you have planned your data collection it is time to develop the forms you will use to record and collate the information. These may be paper based or electronic processes. When deciding which format to use, consider the person who will be collecting the data and what will work best for them, at the point of data collection. For example, there is no point having a sophisticated computer program if the operator has to spend 20 minutes walking to and from an office every time they need to enter data. For this reason, many farm based data collections are initially done on paper and then data can be entered into a computer program at the end of the day/week/month. Even if data is initially collected in a paper based format there are many advantages in transferring to a computer program such as Word, Excel or an industry based software program. The advantages are:

Data can be more easily aggregated and analysed

Data can be reported in many different formats e.g. graphically displayed to identify trends

Data is easily distributed (e.g. via email).

You will find many examples of data collection forms online across a range of industries. Have a look at the following examples to get you started:

NASAA Certified Organics; Resource Centre Forms and Templates; Australia; 2012. www.nasaa.com.au/resource2.html#

Effective records management is a fundamental requirement of certification ensuring the demonstrated existence of a transparent, traceable and auditable system of organic management. NASAA has a number of template sheets required for completion to ensure consistent record keeping. Look at the links on this website for Data Collection Forms Available for Download:

MLA; Guidelines and Tools; Australia; 2012. www.mla.com.au/meat-safety-and-traceability/on-farm-assurance/lpa/guidelines-and-tools

Livestock Production Assurance (LPA) is the system that underpins Australias reputation as a global source of safe red meat. Given that there is so much at stake, MLA is working to make it as easy as possible for producers to comply with LPA through a number of helpful guidelines and tools. It is important producers remember that if they are audited they will need to prove compliance with the elements of LPA and the best way to do this is by keeping good records. Tools to help:

Guide to LPA NVD/Waybills

Sample record templates and sample completed record template and property risk assessment flyer

LPA Audit Checklist

Property assessment and property risk assessment map

Export Slaughter Intervals (ESI)/Withholding Periods (WHP) information list for products used in cattle and sheep

Export Slaughter Intervals (ESI)/Withholding Periods (WHP) information list for agriculture chemical products used in Australia

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Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry; About EXDOC the Electronic Export Documentation System. www.daff.gov.au/aqis/export/exdoc/about

EXDOC is a software application developed by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for the purpose of managing export documentation for primary produce. EXDOC replaced manually generated permits and certificates.

Fairport Farm Software; PAM QA Plus; Australia; 2012. www.fairport.com.au/Pam/

PAM QA Plus is suitable for all broad acre and livestock farming and is a complete primary production recording system which will store and analyse all paddock records simply and efficiently.

PAM QA Plus is a complete primary production recording system which will store and analyse all paddock records simply and efficiently.

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Activity 5

In Activity 3 you identified your data collection requirements. Copy these to the following table (Data to be Collected). Now update the remainder of the table for each data collection.

Dat

a To

Be

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ed

Do

you

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ady

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a

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for

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? Y

/N

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it

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a c

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th?

If Ye

s, is

it w

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ng

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ther

e im

prov

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ts th

at

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d be

mad

e?

If N

o, d

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y de

scri

be w

hat w

ill

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the

tem

plat

e

e.g. Paddock Treatment Record (see this template provided below)

Y Initially recorded on a paper register and then entered into an excel spreadsheet

Y. Working well.

Please attach at least one example of a data collection form that you currently use within your enterprise, to the end of this workbook (or insert an electronic copy if possible). Reference this attachment as Attachment 5.1.

In the last column of this table, did you identify a data collection form that you believe will be beneficial to develop/implement? If so, please select one of these and develop the template. Attach or insert this at the end of this workbook. Reference this attachment as Attachment 5.2.

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REPORT TEMPLATE

Insert Company Name

Insert Report Title

Insert Company DetailsAddress, Telephone and Email

Current Version

No. Date Amended Amended By

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Version History

No. Date Created Sections Changed

Distribution History

No. Date Distributed Sections Changed Distributed To

Acronyms Definitions

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CONTENTS

01 Executive Summary 22

02 Introduction 23

03 Type and Extent of Data Used 24

04 Methodology 25

05 Issues and Constraints 26

06 Results 27

07 Discussion 28

08 Conclusions 29

09 Appendices 30

10 References 31

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1EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 page summary including

Introductory statementScope and objectives of the data collectionType and extent of data usedData collection methodologyIssuesResultsConclusions

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2 INTRODUCTION Details of the data collection, why it is required, who conducted it and the timeframe in which it was conductedData Collection ScopePurposeAims and ObjectivesBackground information

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3 TYPE AND EXTENT OF DATA USED

25


4 METHODOLOGY

26


5 ISSUES AND CONSTRAINTS

27


6 RESULTS

28


7 DISCUSSION

29


8 CONCLUSIONS

30


9 APPENDICES

31


10REFERENCES

END OF TEMPLATE

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This study represents an industry driven initiative to improve understanding of the complex animal/journey interactions

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Example 1

This study represents an industry driven initiative to improve understanding of the complex animal/journey interactions which are part of land transport of livestock in Australia with a particular focus on animal welfare outcomes (mortalities and injury or illness) and journeys longer than 6 hours. A staged approach was used to first examine the usefulness of retrospective information derived from stored records on transport events as a way of meeting the study objectives. The second stage involved a pilot study in one state to develop and test methods for collecting data from transport events as they occurred (prospective data collection). The third stage for this project involved the preparation of a project proposal designed to apply the methods developed in stage 2 to multiple states and territories around Australia in order to be able to produce a nationally representative picture of land transport practices across Australia for journeys greater than 6 hours. (Source:MLA; Transport Audit and Data Collection for Current Practices Project code: AHW.125; 2007)

www.mla.com.au/Research-and-development/Final-report-details?projectid=12997)

Data is Researched, Collated, Monitored and Reviewed

Now that you have planned your data collection (what, when, where, how and who), it is time to start the data collection. This might involve one or more of the techniques we discussed earlier (e.g. research, laboratory testing, on the job field work, interviews, surveys etc.)

As with all processes, there is room for error. It is important while you are in the process of collecting data that you consider:

The use of standard research approaches (e.g. appropriate methods and technologies) when researching data

Progressive monitoring of data for appropriateness

Regularly reviewing sources of information for usefulness, validity, reliability and cost.

Lets have a look at some industry examples to expand on these points. The first example demonstrates a staged approach to the collection of data; researching retrospective information, then implementing a pilot study to collect data within a single state, and then the development of a project proposal to expand the coverage of the data collection across multiple states.

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Activity 6

Using this example, describe the advantages of a staged approach to data collection:

Using this example, describe the disadvantages of a staged approach to data collection:

The second example demonstrates how Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) reviews the accuracy of the National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS) data. This is a large database that is used by internal and external industry stakeholders. There are a number of checks and balances that MLA apply to ensure the data is reliable.

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Example 2

The various collection methods are also used as a comparative yardstick to ensure the accuracy of data collated. Direct sale and wholesale prices are compared to physical market rates, highlighting any anomalies that may occur, as well as being cross referenced.

To manage the quality of NLRS information, a series of key performance indicators are set in place to measure daily performance against a predetermined set of requirements. The system, which outlines standards that must be met, is underpinned by a set of standard operating procedures.

All Livestock Management Officers (LMOs) are regularly assessed to ensure they maintain their national accreditation as livestock assessors. LMOs are required to meet a consistent standard of accuracy in the assessment of liveweight, carcase weight, dressing percentage, fat scoring and muscle scoring.

To ensure that a statistically valid data sample is being collected at each sale, LMOs must record a minimum of 70% of the total stock offered for sale. In reality, the introduction of new technologies has allowed coverage to average closer to 90%.

Finally, the NLRS has a plethora of stringent crosschecking measures to warrant its claim of providing the most up-to-date and accurate market information available. All reports are double checked before being published, while our market analysts pride themselves on the integrity of NLRS databases (Source: MLA; National Livestock Reporting Service (NLRS); NLRS Data Collection;

www.mla.com.au/files/9cf981bd-5d82-48e3-b526-9d660088044f/nlrs-data-collection-process.pdf

To ensure that a statistically valid data sample is being collected at each sale.

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Activity 7

Using the example above, summarise the quality assurance activities that are used by the MLA to ensure the NLRS data is accurate.

Explain why a sample size of 70% of total stock offered for sale is a statistically valid data sample.

The third example demonstrates that producers need to keep abreast of changes that might impact the validity of a data collection. When regulations change, data collections may also need to change.

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Example 3

Withholding periods (WHP) and export slaughter intervals: A WHP is the time that must pass between chemical application, including through the feeding of treated feed, and the slaughter, collection, harvesting or use of the animal commodity for human consumption. These are mandatory for the domestic market and are on the label of all registered products. WHPs can apply to veterinary chemicals e.g. parasite treatments as well as agricultural chemicals e.g. herbicides.

An export slaughter interval (ESI) is the period that must lapse between chemical application to livestock and their slaughter for export. An export grazing interval (EGI) is the minimum time interval between application of a chemical to a crop or pasture that is continually grazed and slaughter.

Adherence to WHPs and ESIs is the simplest way to minimise the greatest risk of residues. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) updates WHP and ESI species-specific lists on their website regularly, making it easy for producers to comply. It is vital that these are adhered to as they form the foundation of Australias excellent reputation for meat safety globally (Source: Meat and Livestock Australia; Residues; Australia; 2012).

www.mla.com.au/Meat-safety-and-traceability/On-farm-assurance/On-farm-risk-management/Residues

An export slaughter interval (ESI) is the period that must lapse between chemical application to livestock and their slaughter for export.

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Activity 8

Consider the legislative/regulatory requirements that affect what data you collect. What processes do you have in place to keep up to date with any changes that might impact the data you collect? Please list these:

The fourth example demonstrates sophisticated electronic scanning systems. These systems can have the ability to capture information at the most appropriate point in the business process, with minimal interruption to that process and can deliver timely and accurate information by the end of the business process. That is, there are no delays to transcribe and check data before it is released.

Example 4

Drafting can often be a time consuming and labour intensive task. An Autodrafter has the ability to reduce labour required, speed up the process and almost completely eliminate error. There are many advantages that can be gained by setting up an automatic drafting system. Automated drafting allows producers to easily handle stock and collect information using minimal labour.

Some specific benefits include:

Reduced labour input

Eliminate transcription mistakes

Easily and efficiently record live weight and other production traits such as condition score, micron etc. and then draft accordingly

Better meet target markets to take advantage of premiums paid

Quickly and accurately identify poor performance animals and remove them from a flock. This could be particularly beneficial when finishing lambs where tight margins are involved

(Source: Department of Primary Industries Victoria; Reducing Labour and Improving Efficiency with Electronic Identification (EID) and Automated Drafting; Note Number: AG1318; February 2009.

www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/farming-management/nlis/sheep-and-goats/improving-efficiency-with-eid-automated-drafting).

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Activity 9

Conduct your own research and identify what electronic systems are available that could assist you to collect and analyse data for your enterprise. What are they?

Would it be of benefit to you/your enterprise to implement such a system? Briefly explain your response:

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Opportunities are taken to Establish and Maintain Contacts with those who may Provide Useful Information

Consider all of the organisations and people that you come into contact with during the course of your work. These can be valuable resources for you and your enterprise. Establishing networks and keeping in touch with people who are like minded can be of enormous benefit and can present business opportunities.

As an example, a grower group network may agree to meet weekly or monthly with the purpose of exchanging ideas, identifying problems that require a solution or offering business leads and referrals with fellow members. To complement this activity, members often meet outside this circle,

on their own time, and build their own one-to-one relationships. If you have a good network of people to contact, you may be able to find what you are looking for without reinventing the wheel. Information systems are no exception and if you ask your peers what they are doing, you might just find what you are looking for. In addition to grower groups, attending training courses, workshops, conferences and field days etc. is another excellent way of meeting like-minded people.

A grower group network may agree to meet weekly or monthly with the purpose of exchanging ideas.

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Activity 10

Complete the following table by researching at least 10 information sources that would be useful for your business.

List the link, contact details and name of the information source

Why is this a useful information source for your business?

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9 EVALUATE DATAOnce data has been collected, it needs to be evaluated to ensure that it is relevant, valid, sufficient and reliable.

So what do we mean by these terms?

Relevant: Some data is just noise and it is of no further use. This data is not relevant and would be disregarded. Only relevant data would be included for analysis. If you continue to throw out data then this is an indicator that the data should not be collected at all, or needs to be collected in such a way that it becomes relevant.

Valid: This refers to the correctness and reasonableness of data. For example, data falls within an acceptable range, is in the correct format, has been transcribed correctly, testing equipment was correctly calibrated etc. If you review data and find errors that are consistent, then this is an indicator that improvements need to be made.

Sufficient: There is enough data to be representative of the situation and to produce a reliable result. In the previous section we discussed the need for adequate sample sizes. This is an example of data sufficiency. Sufficiency might include metrics of sample size and time/duration over which the data was collected. If data is insufficient, then it is likely that you need to collect more of it.

Reliable: This is the confidence that you have in the data and is a combination of all of the above (e.g. it is timely, accurate, valid, sufficient, relevant and accessible).

This extract from the Tasmanian Dairy Industry, highlights issues that dairy farmers may have with data validity if measuring equipment is not properly maintained and calibrated. If such equipment is not properly maintained, data may not be reliable and the quality and safety of milk may be compromised.

Tasmanian Dairy Industry Authority; Dairy Food Safety:- Guidelines for Tasmanian Dairy Factories; 2007; P11.

www.dpiw.tas.gov.au/inter,nsf/Attachments/LBUN-75W777/$FILE/Factory%20guidelines.pdf

Measuring equipment whose function affects quality and safety must be precise and accurate. When equipment monitoring and a Critical Control Point (CCP) is out of calibration, the CCP is considered to have been out of control since the last documented calibration. The procedure should address the following:

A list identifying all inspection, test and measuring equipment including thermometers, scales and balances, temperature recorder/controllers, metal detectors, pH meters, reference weights, etc.

Identification of calibration equipment and where it is located

Methods and frequency for calibration and calibration checking

Acceptable degree of accuracy

Special conditions for the operations, storage or handling of calibration equipment

Methods for identifying equipment when its found to be out of calibration

Methods for identification and review of product produced whilst equipment has been out of calibration

Can you now see the importance of reviewing the quality of data before acting on it? If you make decisions based on poor data, the decision itself will be flawed.

So what are your options if the data you have collected is not valid, sufficient, relevant or reliable? One option is to simply eliminate the data but if this is not an option because the data is needed, then you must fix the data/resolve the problem. This will involve identifying the cause of the problem (e.g. insufficient instructions, equipment not calibrated, poorly designed data collection templates, lack of skills to interpret data) and working out ways to resolve it.

The level of effort that you go to will depend on the value the data has for you and your enterprise. Have a look at the following examples which demonstrate how some data issues are resolved by different organisations/producers.

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Example 1: Members of the Biological Farmers of Australia must seek clarification from their Certifying Officer (CO) if they are in any doubt about the compliance of their products with the Australian Certified Organic Standard. The operator shall put in place procedures and operations which shall establish full control of certified products and stock on farm, in storage and transport and which shall enable the traceability of all batches or consignments of certified materials or stock to the point of sale. Such traceability shall enable the operator to enact a product recall from the market place at any time for a specified group of products or stock produced or sold on any day or production run.

Biological Farmers of Australia; AUSTRALIAN CERTIFIED ORGANIC STANDARD 2010 VERSION : 1.0; Australia; 2010; P22-23. www.bfa.com.au/Portals/0/ACO_2010_Standard_full.pdf

Example 2: If you are a land owner and conduct soil tests on your property as part of your data collection, you may need assistance to interpret soil test results. This data often requires additional expertise which may be found online such as cited in the following extract OR by contracting an expert to assist you.

Department of Primary Industries NSW; Agriculture How to Interpret Your Soil Test; NSW; 2004.www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/agriculture/resources/soils/testing/interpret

Example 3: In 2008, the Grains Research and Development Corporation identified a gap in the information available to the industry to demonstrate progress in sustainability. To overcome this gap, the industry developed a database for farmers to

update with relevant information so that the data could be obtained, analysed and made available for future investment decision making processes. This is an example of industry identifying an information gap and then seeking assistance from producers to fill this gap. Note the win win approach used by the GRDC: If you do this for us, this is what we will do for you.

Grains Research and Development Corporation; Australian Sustainable Farming Practices Grains Industry Sustainable Agriculture Initiatives; Australia; 2008. www.farmingpractices.com.au/howto.html

Example 4: In the following example, DAFF identified limitations with the data collected, tried to obtain more data via a telephone survey but acknowledged that the data still had issues. Regardless of these issues, DAFF determined that the data was still of some value as it would generate a better understanding of the organic industry. So here we have a case where the data did not meet expectations but was still of some use, and the limitations of the data were clearly communicated.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF); The Australian Organic Industry A Summary, 2004; p9. www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/183192/australian_organic_industry_summary.pdf

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Activity 11

Now that you have reached the end of this section, you should have an appreciation of the data quality issues that might impact your specific data collections and whether they warrant resolution. Complete the following table related to data quality and the possible impact on your business/enterprise. What measures/processes will you put in place to ensure the data you collect is relevant, valid, sufficient and reliable?

Data Quality Issue Impact Data Quality Measures

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10MANAGE AND RETRIEVE DATAThroughout this workbook you have undertaken a series of logical steps to build knowledge about data collection and management, including:

Identifying data collection requirements Preparing data collection templates and systems Collecting and collating data Evaluating and resolving data quality issues

How you now store, manage and retrieve this data will be dependent upon the information systems available to you. Paper based systems may often be the means by which data is collected, but large volumes of paper are difficult to manage. Often this data needs to be entered onto a computer system for subsequent analysis.

Using computer systems to manage data offers greater flexibility for aggregating, organising, displaying and reporting data. Office systems such as Excel and Word are often used as these are usually purchased as part of a home office software package. Specialist software applications may be used to meet more enterprise specific requirements.

One added advantage of specialist software systems is that data analysis and reporting options will most likely be available as a by-product of the information you enter. These systems may also allow you to develop ad-hoc reports that are specific to your needs.

The following extracts are examples of electronic information systems that enable producers to generate reports for analysis and interpretation.

Fairport Farm Software; http://www.fairport.com.au/en/

This You Tube video provides an overview of cropping software application (PAM)

www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JaF6d1k2mM

The PAM Precision Data Processor features enable you to:

Create very sophisticated images of spatially variable data, such as yield data collected from a yield monitoring system aboard a harvester.

Automatically generate Contour Map Layers from the generated images of your spatially variable precision farming data (e.g. Yield Data, Soil Samples, EM Survey Data, Elevation Data).

Create representations of soil test data, leaf test data and any other data you may record along with GPS coordinates.

Combine data sets to create averaged data over several years.

Interface with GPS hand held logging devices. This allows you to log areas (e.g. areas of weeds) on the ground and transfer the information to your computer.

Display statistical analysis of data for whole paddocks or within smaller, digitised areas within paddocks.

Sub-Set Data to analyse special areas within paddocks.

Export your data as CSV for importing into Excel. Import CSV files from Excel.

Create VRT recipe maps for all commonly used Variable Rate Control Systems (John Deere, Raven, AgLeader, Topcon/KEE, Farmscan, Rinex, Flexicontrol, SHP FIle Systems) for accurate seed, fertiliser and chemical applications.

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Tasmanian Government Farmpoint; MyFarm; Australia; 2012. www.farmpoint.tas.gov.au/farmpoint.nsf/folder/_myfarm-computersoftwareforfarmmappingandrecordkeeping

MyFarm is a mapping application aimed at assisting farmers with farm planning and management. It has been developed through the Department of Primary Industries, Parks, Water and Environments FarmPoint project to provide a suitable, low cost farm mapping application that will make it easier for farmers to manage their enterprises.

Displays property related data as the base map, including property boundaries, rivers, contours, roads, aerial photography

Mapping functions, including measuring distance/area, adding paddocks, gates, dams, fences, and printing a property map

Recording farm management information, including paddock history, fence details

Agricultural Information and Monitoring Service; Guide to Using the Grazing Plan Calculator, Australia; Pp104, 112. http://aimsag.com.au/software.html

The Graze Plan Calculator is a computer program to help you develop your grazing plan, record grazing movements, determine pasture growth rates and explore future seasonal scenarios.

MyFarm is a mapping application aimed at assisting farmers with farm planning and management.

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Activity 12

What are the advantages and disadvantages of paper based information systems within the context of your enterprise?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of electronic information systems within the context of your enterprise?

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AND INTERPRET DATANow that you have collated the data, you need to put on your investigative hat and ask yourself a lot of questions about the data and what it means, for example:

Is a trend evident? e.g. Is yield/net profit/soil health increasing or decreasing?

Does data fall within an acceptable range for your product/enterprise performance indicators?

Does the data demonstrate that your business goals/objectives are on track?

If data has been collected over a number of sites, is the data comparable at each site and at each site over time?

How does the data you have generated compare to other data from similar enterprises/regions? This is a form of benchmarking.

Does the data identify emerging strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT)?

How do the results compare to known guidelines or targets?

There are a variety of statistical methods and techniques that you can use to analyse and interpret data. The following extracts provide some examples of these. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of such techniques and what you decide to use will be specific to your situation.

AQIS; Guide for the preparation of the meat safety quality assurance system (MSQA) for fresh meat and processed meat products second edition; Australia; 2008; pp40, 47.

www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/129284/msqa_2nd_ed.pdf

The objective is to define appropriate statistical methods or sampling plans. Statistical techniques are utilised where numerical data is gathered and used to assess a product or process.

Wylde Group and the Government of Victoria; Victorian Organic Sector Action Plan; Australia; 2008; P13. www.ofa.org.au/papers/Victorian%20Organic%20Sector_Action%20Plan_12Dec08.pdf

Have a look at this document for an example of SWOT analysis.

Australian Government; Soil Health Knowledge Bank; Soil Chemistry; Australia; 2012. http://soilhealthknowledge.com.au/index.php?view=article&catid=16%3Asoilanalysestesting&id=61%3Asoil-chemistry&tmpl=component&print=1&page=&option=com_content&Itemid=12

Data recording relating to management of fertilizer decisions and soil test results is essential for planning and performance evaluation of a nutrient management program.

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Once you have experience in data management within your enterprise, you might identify gaps in the existing systems that need to be filled. These might be gaps in skills/knowledge, gaps in information available or simply that that the existing information systems have reached their limitations and you need a more sophisticated system.

The following table provides some examples of what producers might upgrade to in the event that their existing systems no longer meet their needs.

Description LinkGenescreen has been developed by Genetics Australia as a data analysis service for dairy farmers. It uses individual herd recording data to analyse within-herd genetic performance and benchmarking, as well as providing mating recommendations to support your genetic improvement strategy. A range of reports are available to assist in the monitoring of your genetic selection, and to evaluate its contribution to the performance of your herd. Please contact your local branch or Genetics Australia on freecall 1800 039 047 for further details on this service.

Genetics Australia; Genescreen. www.genaust.com.au/services/genescreen

Examples of agricultural software programs that producers may choose to upgrade to.

Department of Primary Industries Qld; Australian Farm Software Directory. www.dpi.qld.gov.au/documents/BusinessAndTrade_ServicesAndGeneral/AFSD-Software-catalogue.pdf

Overview of new technology (portable ultrasound) for livestock pregnancy testing and associated recording of test results

www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT_DouRM-mQ

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A range of reports are available to assist in the monitoring of your genetic selection.

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Activity 13

Conduct your own research and identify a range of analysis techniques that would be useful within the context of your enterprise. List these and explain how you would apply them:

Do you feel that you have the necessary skills to perform the above data analysis techniques with confidence? If not, what actions/training can you undertake to fill the skill gap?

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Do you believe that you need new methods of data storage and retrieval within your enterprise? If so, what are they and how would you go about making recommendations for their purchase/implementation?

Now that the data has been analysed and interpreted it is time to report the findings, organise the data into a suitable report to aid decision making and draw conclusions based on reasoned argument and appropriate evidence.

Throughout this process it is important to keep in mind what the data will be used for, who will use it and what their needs are. In this way, you will deliver a report that is practical, meaningful and fit for purpose.

First consider what the report will be used for. Some examples are:

Demonstrate accountability Justify budget or other resource requests Make operational resource allocation decisions Trigger in-depth examinations of what performance problems exist and what corrections are needed Help motivate personnel to continue making program improvements Monitor the performance of staff/contractors Provide data for special, in-depth program evaluations Help provide services more efficiently Support strategic and other long-term planning efforts (by providing baseline information and later tracking progress) To convince, educate, document, gain support To communicate better with industry participants, customers, key stakeholders

Now consider the target audience and what their needs are, for example:

Data should be relevant to the target audience. Only the most important data should be presented. If there are multiple audiences, the data may have to be packaged and formatted differently according to the

main interests and preferences of each audience. Large data dumps of information are counterproductive. Know what the decision-makers want and provide

them with the necessary information in the format with which they are most comfortable. What is needed in a report to aid decision making? How effective are charts, diagrams and tables as a method to easily convey and demonstrate data rather

than large amounts of text.

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Activity 14

Quickly have a look at the following diagram, Figure 1 A value chain for food in Australia.

Source: Wyld Group; VICTORIAN ORGANIC SECTOR ACTION PLAN Prepared for Victorian Organic Industry Collaborative Entity; Victoria; 2008 ;P5.

www.ofa.org.au/papers/Victorian%20Organic%20Sector_Action%20Plan_12Dec08.pdf)

Now describe what this picture is telling you about the value chain for food in Australia. The idea of this exercise is to demonstrate what information you can see at a glance without having to read its context:

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Activity 15

You have identified a number of data collections that are applicable to your enterprise in the previous activities. Provide some examples of how you could represent your data diagrammatically i.e. graphs, flow charts.

Insert diagrammatic examples related to data collected from your business here or attach them to this workbook as Attachment 15.1

Insert Examples Here

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Conclusions Drawn are Based on Reasoned Argument and Appropriate Evidence

Now that the data has been analysed, interpreted and findings have been reported, you can now make informed decisions. Some advantages of using documented results of data collections (e.g. reports) in this way, is that you have an increased ability to:

Demonstrate the effectiveness of your decisions through reference to factual records, and Review, challenge and change opinions and decisions.

Applying the principle of factual approach to decision making typically leads to:

Ensuring that data and information is sufficiently accurate and reliable Making data accessible to those who need it Analysing data and information using valid methods Making decisions and taking action based on factual analysis, balanced with experience and intuition.

The following links provide examples of conclusions drawn from reasoned arguments and appropriate evidence.

Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australian Government; Farming for the Future Industry Practice Baselines; Resource Management Technical Report 342; Western Australia Agriculture Authority; 2009. www.agric.wa.gov.au/objtwr/imported_assets/content/sust/f4findustrypracticebaselinejune09final.pdf

Wyld Group; VICTORIAN ORGANIC SECTOR ACTION PLAN- Prepared for Victorian Organic Industry Collaborative Entity; Victoria; 2008 ;P5. www.ofa.org.au/papers/Victorian%20Organic%20Sector_Action%20Plan_12Dec08.pdf

Biological Farmers of Australia; Agriculture: Chemically treated Bt corn seed kills honey bees; GM mosquito fears; 2012. www.bfa.com.au/IndustryResources/BFAPublications/OrganicAdvantage/OrganicAdvantageArchives2011/newsid742/131.aspx

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Activity 16

Throughout this workbook you have undertaken a series of activities about data collection, management and analysis relevant to your enterprise. It is now time to pull all of this together in 1 activity that accurately and fully demonstrates your data collection, management and analysis capabilities. Make sure you use this activity to collate and analyse data that you also need to use for your business. Your report should include information such as:

Executive Summary

Introduction: Why did the monitoring occur and any contextual background information

Type and extent of data used: Site locations, timeframe, sample size

Methods: List the methods used to collect data, review and validate data, store and retrieve data

Issues/Constraints: List any issues with the data collection that occurred and whether these were resolved

Results: Display your results in the most appropriate way (e.g. graph or table)

Discussion: Here you could compare your results between sites and/or also against guidelines or targets. How do the results at different sites compare to each other? Do the results at any site vary over time (either seasonally or between years)? Are the results above or below guidelines? Are the results meeting or failing targets?

Conclusions: Does the data you have gathered answer the questions you originally set out to answer when planning your program?

References: Be sure to list any documents or sources you have used in preparing the report and acknowledge any help you may have received throughout the project.

Ideally, you will use the data collection and template example you have been working with in previous activities. The report will assume that you have actually implemented the data collection process, collated and analysed the results. You may use your own template or the template provided on page 19 of this workbook.

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12SUMMARY OF KEY INNOVATIONS/OPPORTUNITIES IDENTIFIED AS A RESULT OF ADOPTING THESE SKILLSThe adoption of new opportunities and key innovations should always be considered from the perspective of the triple bottom line. However each producer will need to determine:

What are the most important aspects of each opportunity and innovation?

How can a new innovation or opportunity be sustainably applied to your business or production system?

The summary below is provided as a list of suggested innovations or opportunities that could be implemented based on data collection, management and analysis. It is by no means complete. It is also unrealistic to assume any single business can adopt every opportunity.

Staff empowerment resulting from:

Documented procedures and staff training relative to data collection requirements and data outputs (e.g. how well are we performing compared to our peers; what do we need to do to improve?).

Minimising the incidence of injuries through the appropriate implementation of OH&S procedures/training relevant to data collection operations.

Improved decision making via better information (quality, timeliness, relevance, accuracy, completeness).

Ability to monitor performance over time as a result of collecting, analysing and presenting data appropriate to the needs of the enterprise and taking pro-active corrective procedures to address deficiencies.

New skills acquired as a result of implementing electronic data recording technology.

Land managers that collect, manage and analyse data will own the most detailed information about environmental performance on their property. They can then choose to provide information to others such as industry groups, various levels of government, financiers, catchment groups or regional bodies. Having clear evidence of good environmental performance may provide a producer with market advantage if exporting or providing to niche markets.

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13BIBLIOGRAPHY AND SOURCE MATERIALOrganisation Standard

LegislationContact Details Web Site Reason for Inclusion

AIMS Agricultural Information Monitoring System

http://aimsag.com.au/software.html

http://aimsag.com.au/contactdetails.html

Agricultural Information and Monitoring Services provides an evidence-based consultancy to graziers to improve the profitability and health of grazing businesses. AIMS works with the concept of understanding agricultural ecosystems and relies on sound underlying principles rather than particular recipes. AIMS has worked with graziers in the north-west slopes, northern tablelands and northern rivers of NSW and the mid-north and northern agricultural districts of South Australia.

This site provides links to a number of data collection templates (pasture checklist) and software (excel based feed budget and graze planning tools).

ABARE Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics

http://www.daff.gov.au/about/contactus

http://www.daff.gov.au/abares

ABARES is a research bureau within the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry which provides professionally independent, world-class research, analysis and advice to inform decision-makers on current and future policy challenges affecting Australias primary industries.

Capabilities in multi-disciplinary research and analysis span the fields of economics, science and social science covering the agriculture, fisheries, forestry and food sectors.

Australian Egg Corporation Ltd

Code of Practice For Shell Egg, Production, Grading, Packing and Distribution

http://www.aecl.org/system/attachments/362/original/Code%20of%20Practice%20for%20Shell%20egg%20production,%20grading,%20packing%20and%20distribution%202009.pdf?1291694499

Code of practice, including data collection procedures, templates and techniques for the egg industry.

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Organisation Standard Legislation

Contact Details Web Site Reason for Inclusion

APIQ Australian Pork Industry Quality Assurance Program

Code of Practice http://www.apiq.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2&Itemid=2

http://www.apiq. com.au/index. php?option=com_ content&view= frontpage&Itemid=1

APIQ is an on-farm quality assurance system. It is based on managing farm risks by following Good Agricultural Practices (GAP), using the principles of Hazard Analysis and managing Critical Control Points (HACCP).

APVMA Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicine Authority

Maximum chemical residue limit standard

Export slaughter intervals

Withholding periods and export intervals for pesticide products

Risk Assessment of Short-Term Dietary Exposure to Chemical Residues

PO Box 6182 KINGSTON ACT 2604 AUSTRALIA

T: +61 2 6210 4700

F: +61 2 6210 4813 W: www.apvma.gov.au

http://www.apvma.gov.au/about/index.php

The APVMA is an Australian government statutory authority established in 1993 to centralise the registration of all agricultural and veterinary chemical products into the Australian marketplace. Previously each State and Territory government had its own system of registration.

Pesticides and veterinary medicines are vital to quality food and fibre production. Australias primary production is worth an estimated $30 billion a year with an export value of over $25 billion.

AQIS Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service

Import and export inspection and certification

National Standard for Organic and Biodynamic Produce

A Guideline to Compliance with the Export Control (Eggs and Egg Products) Orders

A Guideline to Compliance with the Export Control (Fish and Fish Products) Orders

Contact to various AQIS divisions can be found at: http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/about

http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis

http://www.daff.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/126181/haccp_ffp.pdf

The Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service (AQIS) is part of the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

AQIS manages quarantine controls at our borders to minimise the risk of exotic pests and diseases entering the country. AQIS also provides import and export inspection and certification to help retain Australias highly favourable animal, plant and human health status and wide access to overseas export markets.

Biological Farmers of Australia

Australian Certified Organic Standard; version 1; 2010.

http://www.bfa.com.au/ContactUs.aspx

http://www.bfa.com.au

Provision of industry standards, data collection procedures, data collection templates and auditing tools.

Dairy Australia Codes of Practice http://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/Standard-Items/Contact-Us-Content.aspx

http://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/Home/Standard-Items/~/media/Documents/Industry%20overview/Food%20safety/AMRA%20and%20Chemicals.ashx

Australian Milk Residue Analysis Survey

Fact sheets

Data collection templates

Audit tools

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DAFF Government Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry

National Residue Survey

Exdoc Software Application

http://www.daff.gov.au/agriculture-food/nrs

http://www.daff.gov.au/agriculture-food/nrs

http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/export/exdoc/about

NRS monitors residues of agricultural and veterinary chemicals and environmental contaminants in Australian food commodities. The cost of this monitoring is largely industry-funded through levies on the animal and plant commodities that are tested

Department of Lands NSW Government

https://six.nsw. gov.au/wps/portal /!ut/p/b1/04_Sjz QzMje1MDI2 NNKP0I_KSyz LTE8syczPS8w B8aPM4oO dnEJNHQ3ND A3MnV0MPA3N_EycQw29Ag NN9INT8_RzoxwVAVit2Ic!/

http://six.maps.nsw.gov.au/terms/acceptTerms.html

Spatial Information Exchange is available to farmers to map their properties.

Department of Primary Industries NSW

State based policies, regulations and legislation for food and fibre industries

http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/aboutus/about/contact

http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/

How to interpret soil tests

Factsheets to assist farmers collect data (by industry)

Ebeef NLIS electronic data collection software/equipment

Fairport Farm Software

http://www.fairport.com.au/contact/

http://www.fairport.com.au/Pam

Primary production software

Free Range Farmers Association

Code of Practice and QA Program

http://www.freerangefarmers.com.au/contacts.html

http://www.freerangefarmers.com.au/food-safety.html

Members are required to meet the standards of the Free Range Farmers Association Quality Assurance and Food Safety Program and the Code of Practice for Shell Egg Production, Grading, Packing and Distribution. The QA program is available from the Association and the Code of Practice is available from the Australian Egg Corporation. It includes data collection procedures, examples of data collection forms and standard operating procedures.

FSANZ Food Standards Australia New Zealand

General food standards

Food product standards

Food safety standards

Primary production standards

email: info@food standards.gov.au

http://www.foodstandards.gov.au/

FSANZ is a bi-national Government agency. Our main responsibility is to develop and administer the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code), which lists requirements for foods such as additives, food safety, labelling and GM foods. Enforcement and interpretation of the Code is the responsibility of State/Territory departments and food agencies within Australia and New Zealand.

Graincare Australia Pty Ltd

Graincare Quality Assurance

http://www.graincare.com.au/Contact%20Us.htm

http://www.graincare.com.au/index.htm

Graincare is an on-farm program designed to assist grain growers produce grain which will satisfy the quality assurance (QA)

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ISO International Organization for Standardi-sation

ISO 9000 Quality Mgt

ISO 31000 Risk Mgt

ISO 14000 Env Mgt

ISO 22000 Food Safety

E-mail: [email protected]

http://www.iso.org/iso/home.htm

ISO is a network of the national standards institutes of 157 countries and develops and publishes International Standards in a wide range of areas including agriculture. Documentation standards are available.

Kondinin Group http://www.kondiningroup.com.au/static.ASP?t=1&I=0

http://www.kondiningroup.com.au/static.ASP?t=2&I=19

The Small Landholder Information Service (SLIS) has teamed up with Kondinin Group to deliver a series of technical notes on running a small farm, or property. This series of Noteworthy fact sheets provide practical information from the Department of Agriculture and Food WA to help small landholders make better choices. A number of these have relevance to data collection and management.

MLA Meat Standards Australia

NLIS http://www.mla.com.au/General/Contact

http://www.mla.com.au/Meat-safety-and-traceability/On-farm-assurance/LPA

http://www.ausmeat.com.au/auditing-accreditation/quality-management-systems.aspx

(Livestock Production Assurance) is a program that underpins the National Vendor Declaration and Waybill (LPA NVD/Waybill), which upholds Australias reputation as a world leader in meat and livestock food safety. Tools and templates are available to assist with the documentation and analysis of this data set.

NASAA Certified Organics

http://www.nasaa.com.au/contact.html

http://www.nasaa.com.au/resource2.html#

Resource Centre Forms and templates are available for organic producers.

NSW Food Authority

Food safety and labelling

Industry Manuals

Email: [email protected]

http://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/

http://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/_Documents/industry_pdf/NSW_Shellfish_Industry_Manual.pdf

The NSW Food Authority is the government organisation that helps ensure food in NSW is safe and correctly labelled. Links are available to a range of industry specific manuals (e.g. shellfish, eggs, dairy, pork and beef) which include instructions on data collection and management.

RIRDC Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/publications/forms/contact-us

http://www.rirdc.gov.au/research-programs

The objective of this program is to deliver R&D to facilitate the organic industrys capacity to meet rapidly increasing demand, domestically and globally. This web site includes a range of research reports based on industry specific data capture, management and analysis.

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University of Sydney Australian Centre for Agricultural Health and Safety

http://www.aghealth.org.au/index.php?id=7

http://www.aghealth.org.au/index.php?id=5030

This website is a useful resource for Australian farmers to understand, implement and monitor risk management strategies for occupation health and safety related events. It includes;

Factsheets OH&S requirements for Australian farms

Ergonomics and manual handling on farms

Training and educational resources

National farm injury data centre.

Victorian Department of Primary Industries

State based policies, regulations and legislation for food and fibre industries

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/about-us/contact-us

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture

http://www.dpi.vic.gov.au/agriculture/horticulture

Series of factsheets on organic farming, standards, quality assurance certifiers.

Victorian Government

Business Victoria

State based policies, regulations and legislation for business

http://www.business.vic.gov.au/BUSVIC/FEEDBACK/FEEDBACK.html,contextPC=

http://www.business.vic.gov.au/BUSVIC/HOMEPAGE/HOME.html

Business Victoria is a comprehensive online resource designed to help you start, run and grow your business

The WA Dairy Farm Assurance Group

A Guide to Dairy Farm Assurance

Nil http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/objtwr/imported_assets/content/aap/dc/dfaguide.pdf

Dairy Farm Assurance has been developed by the Western Australian Dairy Farm Assurance Working group. The group is representative of the Western Australian diary industry. It comprises of representatives from the farming sector, dairy processing companies, Dairy Industry Authority and Agriculture Western Australia. This document includes data collection procedures and templates for the dairy industry.

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14BEING CONFIDENT ABOUT YOUR SKILL LEVELSBefore commencing on your summative assessment take a few minutes to review this workbook and ensure you feel that you are confident about your skill levels related to this topic.

Use the table below to help you check your skills. Before commencing your final assessments it is important to review any sections in which you feel unsure. Remember: it is always OK to ask your assessor/lecturer questions.

In the table below, read the list of skills and knowledge you should have after completing this workbook.

1. Put a tick in the column if you can do this now and a brief comment re why you believe you have this skill.

2. Put a tick in the next column if you feel you need more practice and must review the work before completing final assessments also a brief comment as to why.

3. If you require further training, complete the third column listing what training is needed. Show this list to your supervisor or assessor and ask for more time or training before completing the summative assessments.

Skills/knowledge you should have

Yes

Nee

d P

ract

ice Comment on why What additional

training do I need

Determine the type and extent of data to be collected

Access and collate data

Evaluate data

Manage and retrieve data

Analyse the data

Interpret the data

Follow safe work practices

Data collection techniques and procedure

Data recording and evaluation techniques

Data analysis and interpretive techniques

Data storage and retrieval methods

Data reporting methods

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15ASSESSMENTYou have now reached the end of this workbook. All of the information and activities you have covered have developed your skills to collect and manage data in your workplace.

Your competency may be assessed through your successful completion of all formative activities throughout this workbook. Alternatively, your RTO may require completion of a final summative assessment. You will need to discuss this with your RTO.

FEEDBACK

This workbook has been developed to guide users to access current information related to gaining skills appropriate to their workplace. Please complete the following table notifying us of any errors or suggested improvements.

Subject Name

Book Number

Page What is the error Suggested improvement

10 You tube video is not accurate Better websites / You Tube example

Is there a link to your suggested improvement

Additional comments

Click here to email your feedback form to RST

ResponseBriefly describe your enterprise and your productsservices: ResponseWhat are the goals of your business ie the vision for your business: ResponseWhat are the objectives of your business ie these are how the goals will be achieved: ResponseDo you have any performance indicators that enable you to measure your progress towards achieving these objectives If so please list them: ResponseWhat legislativeregulatory requirements must you conform to: ResponseMake an honest appraisal of your ability to publicly demonstrate your compliance with these legislative regulatory requirements: ResponseConsider all of the responses above and now identify what data you need to col l ect to be able to support your business requirements demonstrate whether you are on track and conform to leg i s l at i ve regulatory requ i rements Indicate whether these ex i st E or are new N: Data To Be CollectedRow1: Source of DataRow1: Reference if ApplicableRow1: Data To Be CollectedRow2: Source of DataRow2: Reference if ApplicableRow2: Data To Be CollectedRow3: Source of DataRow3: Reference if ApplicableRow3: Data To Be CollectedRow4: Source of DataRow4: Reference if ApplicableRow4: Data To Be CollectedRow5: Source of DataRow5: Reference if ApplicableRow5: Data To Be CollectedRow6: Source of DataRow6: Reference if ApplicableRow6: Data To Be CollectedRow7: Source of DataRow7: Reference if ApplicableRow7: Data To Be CollectedRow8: Source of DataRow8: Reference if ApplicableRow8: What are they and are they likely to occurRow1: What measures will you implement to mitigate these risksRow1: eg Paddock Treatment Record see this template provided belowRow1: YRow1: Initially recorded on a paper register and then entered into an excel spreadsheetRow1: eg Paddock Treatment Record see this template provided belowRow2: YRow2: Initially recorded on a paper register and then entered into an excel spreadsheetRow2: eg Paddock Treatment Record see this template provided belowRow3: YRow3: Initially recorded on a paper register and then entered into an excel spreadsheetRow3: eg Paddock Treatment Record see this template provided belowRow4: YRow4: Initially recorded on a paper register and then entered into an excel spreadsheetRow4: Row3: Row1_2: Insert Company Details Address Telephone and Email: Current Version: NoRow1: Date AmendedRow1: Amended ByRow1: NoRow2: Date AmendedRow2: Amended ByRow2: NoRow3: Date AmendedRow3: Amended ByRow3: NoRow1_2: Date CreatedRow1: Sections ChangedRow1: NoRow2_2: Date CreatedRow2: Sections ChangedRow2: NoRow3_2: Date CreatedRow3: Sections ChangedRow3: NoRow1_3: Date DistributedRow1: Sections ChangedRow1_2: Distributed ToRow1: NoRow2_3: Date DistributedRow2: Sections ChangedRow2_2: Distributed ToRow2: NoRow3_3: Date DistributedRow3: Sections ChangedRow3_2: Distributed ToRow3: AcronymsRow1: DefinitionsRow1: AcronymsRow2: DefinitionsRow2: AcronymsRow3: DefinitionsRow3: AcronymsRow4: DefinitionsRow4: AcronymsRow5: DefinitionsRow5: AcronymsRow6: DefinitionsRow6: AcronymsRow7: DefinitionsRow7: undefined_16: Background information: undefined_17: undefined_18: undefined_19: undefined_20: undefined_21: undefined_22: undefined_23: 10REFERENCES: Using this example describe the advantages of a staged approach to data collectionRow1: Using this example describe the disadvantages of a staged approach to data collectionRow1: Using the example above summarise the quality assurance activities that are used by the MLA to ensure the NLRS data is accurateRow1: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceRow1: Why is this a useful information source for your businessRow1: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceRow2: Why is this a useful information source for your businessRow2: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceRow3: Why is this a useful information source for your businessRow3: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceRow4: Why is this a useful information source for your businessRow4: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceRow5: Why is this a useful information source for your businessRow5: List the link contact details and name of the information sourceR