FAQs

The training provides the skills and sign-off recognised by DOC’s current framework.

Endorsement by our DOC certified trainer will qualify you for the official DOC competency that we’ve trained you in.

You’ll need to listen closely in the class and field sessions as well as show you are confident in your analysis of ABM data using the online test.

DOC retain the right to approve/deny your competency, as well as rescind it.

We’ll sign you off as competent for two years, after that a refresher is recommended to stay up to date with protocols.

It’s easy to get rusty with your interpretation skills, that’s why we’ve built practice tests to keep you sharp between refreshers if you aren’t getting allot of bat work.

Stop work immediately. As a trained bat assessor, it’s your responsibility to make sure bats are not harmed.

Do not fell or disturb the tree until clearance is given. If you’re working as an arborist, ensure the project’s bat management plan is being followed. This should include pre-felling protocols (e.g. three consecutive nights of no ABM passes before felling).

If bats were not expected at the site, it’s worth revisiting the plan:

• Do these trees really need to come down?

• Has the impact on bats been considered?

• Could the design be adjusted to avoid them?
  If removal is still necessary, seek additional input before proceeding. And if you’re unsure, give us a call — we’re here to help.

DOC has a PDF that outlines the best practice protocols for this situation - check it out by following this link.

If in doubt, err on the side of caution and assess it as high-risk.

A lone bat caught out in bat weather could shelter in all sorts of unexpected places.