The SSUFSCP has authorised the State Research Institute for Laboratory Diagnostics and Veterinary and Sanitary Expertise to train food business operators’ staff and assess their knowledge and skills in animal welfare. The institute’s training centre is the first organisation authorised for this activity, the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection (SSUFSCP) reports.

Key points:

  • completing the training is a mandatory condition for staff to obtain a state category F certificate (keeping and breeding animals);
  • the training covers the welfare of calves and cattle during keeping;
  • other organisations with an education licence can also apply for authorisation;
  • the SSUFSCP reviews applications within 15 calendar days.

Why it matters for cattle farming

Keeping cattle, and especially rearing calves, requires specific microclimate, feeding and animal engineering parameters. Reducing stress, forming groups correctly and handling animals humanely during daily procedures directly affect not only animal welfare but also product quality and overall farm profitability.

From now on, cattle farming operators have an official partner to certify their staff. Completing the training is a mandatory condition for staff to obtain a state category F certificate (keeping and breeding animals).

The training will cover the welfare of calves and cattle during keeping, meaning that relevant staff can already take the course and the exam. If they pass, the institute issues a confirming document, after which the employee can apply to the SSUFSCP with the required documents for a state certificate.

How to obtain a state certificate

After training, the employee submits to the SSUFSCP’s regional office:

  • an application;
  • a written declaration;
  • a document confirming successful completion of the training and exam;
  • proof of payment for issuing the certificate.

Documents can be submitted in person, by post or electronically.

Who else can become an authorised body

Other organisations can also apply for authorisation. Applications are open to legal entities resident in Ukraine regardless of ownership. They need an education licence, qualified specialists, training materials and facilities for practical classes.

The SSUFSCP reviews applications within 15 calendar days. The requirements and the list of authorised organisations are published on the SSUFSCP web portal.

Authorising the first organisation marks the start of a system for training operators’ staff in animal welfare. Employees will be able to gain the necessary knowledge, practise skills and confirm their competence with a state certificate.

Developing a network of authorised organisations will help farms prepare staff for daily work with animals, introduce modern housing standards and ensure compliance with animal welfare legislation.

Source: State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection