The modules are based on PPT's Pig Skills Manuals on-farm training programme, which has been adapted into an interactive web-based system and includes a series of exercises illustrated with photos and videos.

The 'Reducing Stillbirths' course covers eight skills that are needed to minimise the number of stillborn pigs at farrowing, while the 'Farrowing Management' course includes 12 topics, which deal with the key skills involved in maximising piglet survival to weaning.

"The advantage of online training is that it is instantly available at any time and trainees can carry it out at their own pace," said Jim Muirhead of 5M Publishing, owner of ThePigSite.

"The modules offer a simple but practical training format and a consistent global training standard."

Trainees completing the modules and successfully answering a series of questions are able to print out a course certificate.

The site also allows companies to register their employees and track their progress online.

Further modules will be added in future and the intention is to make courses available in other languages, Mr Muirhead added.

The 'Reducing Stillbirths' module costs US$48 and the 'Farrowing Management' course $72. They can be found at learn.thepigsite.com.