SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Power Plant Auxiliary Systems Operation 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
23677  National Certificate: Power Plant Auxiliary Systems Operation 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Power Plant Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was EWSETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  122  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 
SAQA 0160/05  2007-08-07  2009-02-18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-02-18   2013-02-18  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
61549  National Certificate: Power Plant Auxiliary Systems Operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  120  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Learners obtaining this qualification will be recognised on a national level in performing operational activities on power plant auxiliary systems/processes and related equipment as FIELD OPERATORS on all power utilities in South Africa. The qualification will ensure professionalism, proficiency and excellence in the operating of power plants on the entry level. It will also assist in changing perceptions on the status and functional levels of operators in the work place. The qualification will provide the operators with pride self worth and enhance their morale.

Worth to the employer will be manifested in the competence of the employee in terms of safe, sound and efficient operations performed by the operator. This qualification will provide for recognition of prior learning of existing operators` competence throughout the industry and allow credits to be obtained in cross- functional learning fields.
The qualification will provide the foundational requirements for mobility and vertical progression in various power utilities. (Fossil, hydro or nuclear)

A person acquiring this qualification will have skills, knowledge and behavioural competence in the following areas:
  • Energy conversion process understanding
  • Theories and application of mechanical, electrical and process instrumentation understanding
  • Regulatory knowledge (OHSA, Introduction to High Voltage Regulations, Permit to Work Systems)
  • Dangers of chemicals used on power plants understood
  • Planning skill
  • Organizing skill
  • Decision making
  • Big Picture thinking (micro level)
  • Process plant configuration
  • Process plant integration
  • Self management
  • Team work
  • Communication (written and verbal)
  • Problem solving
  • Process plant operation in one of Fossil, Nuclear or Hydro plant.


    Rationale of the qualification

    This qualification forms the foundation for Power Plant Operation in the Power Generation industry in South Africa and is therefore mandatory for all Power utilities.
    This qualification is based on industry needs in building competences in the workplace for Power Plant Operations. The qualification therefore sets national standards for Power Plant Operators in Auxiliary Plant Operations.

    This qualification provides the learner with accessibility to be employed within the functional areas that include nuclear, hydro and fossil power plants.

    Other considerations in national interest addressed by this Qualification are:
  • Setting national standards of practice in this specific learning field
  • Building individual capacity in foundational Operating competence.
  • Ensure entry, progression and mobility into Life Long Learning in this specific learning field
  • Addressing Power Plant Operations Industry specific employment requirements.
  • Enhancing of professional competence on a national level
  • Providing an avenue of upliftment for the previously disadvantaged into this discipline
  • Providing a Qualification to be used in a learnership in this field.
  • Enhance social and economic development. 

  • LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners should be competent in:
  • Communication and Language NQF Level 2
  • Mathematical Literacy NQF Level 2


    Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

    This qualification will be achieved in part or in full through recognition of prior learning. (E.g. for those qualifications previously issued by the ESKOM AND ALLIED INDUSTRIES TRAINING BOARD (EAITB)), i.e. Power Plant Operator Certificate. (Currently been issued by the ENERGY SETA).

    Any other evidence of prior learning should be assessed through formal RPL processes to recognise achievement thereof. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Level, credits and learning components assigned to the qualification in power plant auxiliary systems operation

    This Certificate is made up of a planned combination of learning outcomes that has a defined purpose and will provide the learner with applied competence and a strong basis for further learning in Power Plant Operations.

    The Qualification is made up of unit standards that are classified as fundamental, core and elective. Minimum credits required to complete this qualification is as follows:
  • Fossil Power Plant: 131
  • Nuclear Power Plant: 133
  • Hydro Power Plant: 122

    This Qualification is made up of unit standards at NQF levels 2 to 4, with the qualification satisfying the requirements for registration at level 3.

    The majority of unit standards relate directly to the purpose of the qualification with maximum portability between the various power generating utilities (Nuclear, Hydro and Fossil Power Stations). 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve problems through the application of mathematics in a variety of contexts.
    2. Communicate effectively in the workplace.
    3. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of Power Plant Engineering concepts.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of occupational introductory requirements.
    5. Operate Auxiliary Power Plant Systems.


    Exit points for learners who do not complete the Qualifications:
  • Learners will be credited with Unit Standards in which they have proved competence.
  • Learners who complete individual Unit Standards, but do not complete this Qualification retain their credits, however, should the substance of the unit Standard change in future the validity of the credit(s) towards the Qualification may be reviewed.
  • Learners who change their provider before completing the Qualification may transfer their credits to the new provider/learning site.


    Critical cross-field outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes, as detailed in the assessment criteria for each exit level outcome and within the unit standards associated with each exit level outcome:
  • Identifying and solving problems in which responses indicate that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.
  • Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral/written persuasion.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
  • Demonstrating and understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Learning programmes directed towards this qualification will also contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large, by making individuals aware of the importance of:
  • Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
  • Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
  • Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
  • Exploring education and career opportunities; and developing entrepreneurial opportunities. 

  • ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.1 Problem solving strategies are appropriate to the problems at hand.
    1.2 Solutions derived are appropriate to the problems.
    1.3 Problem solving approach is communicated in a clear and structured manner using appropriate terminology.
    1.4 Solutions are validated in terms of the problem situation.
    1.5 Technology is used effectively to assist in problems solving as required.

    2.1 Language is applied to accommodate workplace requirements.
    2.2 Communication is clear and structured as per the situation at hand.
    2.3 Media used for communications contributes to effective communication.
    2.4 Communication barriers are identified and addressed as appropriate to the situation.

    3.1 Knowledge is demonstrated of the application of power plant engineering concepts within the context of plant operations.
    3.2 Applications of knowledge are suited for problem solving on process plant.
    3. Explanations provided of Power Plant Engineering concepts are consistent with established literature and engineering conventions.
    3.4 Applications of knowledge contribute towards the safe and effective operation of plant processes.

    4.1 Organisational understanding is demonstrated to an extent that the employee can function effectively in the workplace.
    4.2 Safety principles are applied in a holistic manner that protects plant and people.

    5.1 Plant operations are performed safely and efficiently according to operating standards.
    5.2 Out of normal emergency conditions are identified and acted upon using Power Plant Engineering Principles.
    5.3 Interrelation of Auxiliary Systems are interpreted and contextualised within Power Generation.
    5.4 Principles of teamwork are applied according to operational requirements.

    Note: Learners will be regarded "not yet competent" should they jeopardise the safety of people/plant during any stage of the assessment.


    Integrated Assessment

    The applied competence (practical, foundational and reflective competencies) of this qualification will be achieved if a learner is able to achieve all exit level outcomes of the qualification as per the rules specified. Applicable critical cross field outcomes must be assessed during any combination of practical, foundational and reflexive competencies. Assessment methods and tools used must determine the whole person`s development and integration of applied knowledge and skills.
  • Certain exit level outcomes are measurable and verifiable through assessment criteria assessed in one application.
  • Applicable assessment tools to assess the foundational, reflective and practical competencies within the power plant operations environment.
  • A detailed portfolio of evidence is required of the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner.
  • Assessors and moderators should develop and conduct integrated assessment by making use of a range of formative and summative methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired by recognition of prior learning (RPL) through any form of learning.
  • Unit standards associated with this qualification must be used to assess specific and critical cross -field outcomes. During integrated assessment, the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and should assess combinations of practical, foundational and reflective competencies.


    Formative assessment

    Assessment criteria for formative assessment are described in the various unit standards. Formative assessment takes place during the process of learning and assessors should use a range of appropriate assessment methods and tools that assess competence holistically. These methods include but are not limited to the following:
  • On-the-job observations
  • Role-play and/or simulations
  • Knowledge tests, exams, case studies, projects, logbooks, workbooks
  • Verbal report backs (presentations)
  • Portfolios of evidence (RPL)
  • Working in teams (360 degrees evaluations)
  • Scenario sketching
  • Incident reports

    The assessment tools and methods used by the assessor must be:
  • Fair, not to hinder or disadvantage the learner in any way,
  • Valid, to measure what is intended to measure,
  • Reliable, consistent and delivers the same output across a range of learners and assessors


    Summative assessment

    Summative assessment is carried out at the end of each meaningful competence level achieved by the learner. A detailed portfolio of evidence is required to prove the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner.

    Assessors and moderators

    Work place assessors should develop and conduct integrated assessments by using appropriate methods and techniques. Moderation to be done according to laid down requirements. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is based on a study conducted by ESKOM on various European countries with leading power producers. The German model (with minor changes) was adopted as the basis for this qualification. Operator qualifications after this were registered under the manpower-training act and accredited by the ESKOM and Allied Industries Training Board (EAITB). This qualification was further developed to meet the SAQA requirements for registration. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to pursue different careers in the power generation industry. The level of flexibility within the range of elective utilities (hydro, nuclear, fossil and electrical control) will allow the individual to pursue further learning within those development areas.

    Other articulation fields could be the following:
  • Certificate in occupational directed Education Training and Development NQF 4.
  • Certificates in Electrical Network Control NQF 4.
  • Certificate in Power Plant Operation NQF 4(Nuclear, Hydro and Fossil). 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant SETA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant SETA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant SETA according to the SETAs policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between SETAs (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the qualification. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards, exit level outcomes as well as the integrated competence described in the qualification.
  • A learner wishing to be assessed for this Qualification can only be assessed through an accredited assessment provider/centre. 

  • CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    The assessor must be:
  • Competent in the standard at which the assessment is conducted.
  • At least one year on the job experience.
  • Registered with the relevant SETA. 

  • NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 61549, which is "National Certificate: Power Plant Auxiliary Systems Operations", Level 3, 120 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  13962  Demonstrate Knowledge and Understanding of The Organisation  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  13963  Demonstrate Knowledge and Understanding Towards Occupational health and safety Regulatory Requirements  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  13961  Demonstrate Knowledge and Use of Hand Operated Fire Fighting Equipment  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Core  10195  Apply Engineering Principles and concepts in a Power Generation Process Plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10585  Describe bearing types, designs and application theories associated with process plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10582  Describe lubrication methods and applications associated with process plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  14036  Describe plant instrumentation and process measurement used on Power Generation plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10613  Describe power transmission designs and application theories associated with process plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10587  Describe the working principle of compressed air systems associated with process plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10598  Differentiate between valve designs and application theories associated with process plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  10488  Interpret liquid transfer theories in a process plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  14038  Interpret the operation of internal combustion engines used in power plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  114463  Operate Cooling Water Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  11 
    Core  13957  Operate Fire Extinguishing System  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  11893  Operate Fossil Fired Steam Generator Water and Steam Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  11 
    Core  13713  Operate Support Plant Water Supply Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Core  13703  Perform operational communicational activities  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  8968  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9010  Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9013  Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  8969  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  9012  Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  8973  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  7456  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Fundamental  8970  Write texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114464  Operate nuclear reactor building air lock system  Level 2  NQF Level 02 
    Elective  14037  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of heat exchange equipment used in a process plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13704  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Hydro power generation concepts and theories  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Elective  10522  Interpret solid transfer system theories in a process plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114462  Operate bulk flue gas conditioning systems on fossil fired steam generators  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114458  Operate bulk fuel oil systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  14217  Operate Bulk Lubrication Oil Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114456  Operate coal handling systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  11 
    Elective  114465  Operate Compressed Air Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12096  Operate Demineralised Water Systems on Fossil Power Plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  12023  Operate hydrogen production plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114459  Operate liquid petroleum gas systems on fossil power plants  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13712  Operate nuclear liquid waste monitoring and discharge systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13711  Operate nuclear support plant gas production and supply systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114455  Operate nuclear support plant steam production system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13959  Operate nuclear support plant system chlorination system  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  114469  Operate Nuclear Support Plant Water Supply Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  13726  Operate support plant compressed air systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03 
    Elective  11957  Operate Waste Handling Systems Associated with Power Plant Processes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  16 
    Elective  13708  Apply engineering principles related to the operation of demineralisers and ion exchangers in nuclear power generating plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. ESKOM HENDRINA POWER STATION - OPERATIONS 



    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.