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 UNIT STANDARD: 

Install components of a railway signalling interlocking system 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
116871  Install components of a railway signalling interlocking system 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Electrical Engineering & Construction 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction Electrical Infrastructure Construction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 
2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

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 unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
A learner credited with this unit standard will be able to install components of an electrical railway signalling interlocking system according to plans and specifications by applying signalling engineering practice. This will ensure the availability of correctly installed railway signalling interlocking systems which contribute in part to a reliable railway signalling system, safe and efficient train operations and effective rail transportation. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication NQF L3.
  • Mathematics NQF L3.
  • Knowledge of the relevant statutory requirements related to installing components of a railway signalling interlocking system.
  • Knowledge of and ability to assemble and wire components of an electrical railway signalling interlocking system.
  • Principles of train operating methods and railway signalling.
  • Knowledge of the company rules and regulations applicable when performing infrastructure maintenance in the vicinity of or near exposed "live" high-voltage overhead track equipment.
  • Apply train working rules as applicable to railway signalling maintenance personnel when working on or in the vicinity of operational railway lines. 

  • UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The credit value assigned to this unit standard is appropriate because performance must be carried out:
    1. In a controlled environment.
    2. Within a specific time.
    3. At a field site.
    4. Under simulated or actual operational conditions.

    This standard includes the installation of:
  • Standard railway signalling interlocking system racks.
  • Interlocking units.
  • IDFs, MDFs, OPs.
  • Control desks, indication panels.

    This standard excludes:
  • The assembly and wiring of interlocking systems.
  • The installation of parts and components internally to interlocking units and PLCs. 

  • Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and procure the resources required to install components of an electrical railway signalling interlocking system safely and correctly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The ob order is interpreted to establish the relevant resources required to install components of an electrical railway signalling interlocking system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The correct plans and/or diagrams for the installation of the railway signalling interlocking system component are obtained and verified. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct resource requirements are determined and obtained to install components of an electrical railway signalling interlocking system. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Resources are verified against material specifications and any sub-standards rectified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Install a component of a railway signalling interlocking system safely and correctly according to the installation plans/diagrams within the allocated time at the relevant site. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    A component of a railway signalling interlocking system is correctly installed and the necessary adjustments are made as per plans/diagrams and specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Safe working procedures, policies and instructions are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The assisting personnel are supervised when such personnel are utilised. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The installation site is prepared and secured according to procedures, policies and instructions to allow the installation task to be completed safely. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Installation of a railway signalling interlocking system component is completed within the allocated time. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the installation of a railway signalling interlocking system component are dealt with correctly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Communication with relevant role players during the installation of a railway signalling interlocking system component is performed according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Specific communication protocol with relevant role players is adhered to when applicable (e.g. Operating and Protection Personnel). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 9 
    Relevant communication media is used according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 10 
    Communication is clear and concise. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Perform quality checks on the installation of railway signalling interlocking system components according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Relevant quality checks are performed correctly on the installed railway signalling interlocking system components according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Non-conformance to specifications indicated by quality checks is addressed correctly. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Relevant documentation related to the quality checks performed on the installed railway signalling interlocking system component is completed according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Restore the installation site as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Hazardous and waste material is safely disposed of as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    All equipment housing lids, doors, covers, locks, etc. are replaced and secured as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The site is restored as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Material, equipment and tools are returned for storage or repair as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Hand over the installed railway signalling interlocking system components for commissioning. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Relevant role-players are timeously advised of completion of task. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Documentation applicable to signing off of the installation task is completed according to company policies and instructions. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
    1. An individual wishing to be assessed against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that has been accredited by the relevant ETQA.
    2. Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
    3. Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be registered and accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA as prescribed.
    4. Moderation of assessment will be done by the relevant ETQA as prescribed.
    5. Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be certified as competent against this unit standard and registered as an assessor to assess this unit standard. 

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The learners can understand and explain the following related to the installation of a railway signalling interlocking system:
  • Planning and procurement.
  • Installation plans.
  • Installation notices.
  • Installation procedure.
  • Installation specifications.
  • Various types and functions of railway signalling interlocking systems.
  • Identification, purpose and function of parts and components of railway signalling interlocking systems.
  • Identification and handling of material.
  • Restoration of site.
  • Concrete mixtures and mixture methods.
  • Relevant extracts from:
  • OHS Act and regulations.
  • Safe working procedures.
  • Company-specific policies, procedures and instructions. 

  • UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Problem-solving.
    Learners can solve problems with regard to:
  • The correctness, quantity and quality of material, parts and components.
  • The suitability and functionality of equipment and tools.
  • The installation of fundamental interlocking and control systems.
  • Operational changes relating to the installation of fundamental interlocking and control systems.
  • Availability and competence of assisting personnel. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Team work.
    Learners can work effectively in teams when:
  • Preparing the site.
  • Handling fundamental interlocking and control systems.
  • Installing fundamental interlocking and control systems.
  • Restoring the site. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Self-organisation and self-management.
    A learner can organise and manage himself by:
  • Executing the task correctly and responsibly.
  • Maintaining a high level of discipline.
  • Adhering to time frames.
  • Adhering to safety and company-specific policies and procedures. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Information evaluation.
    Learners can interpret and evaluate the contents of:
  • An installation plan.
  • A job order.
  • Occupation notice where applicable. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communication.
  • Learners can communicate effectively with relevant role-players related to the installation of fundamental interlocking and control systems. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use of science and technology.
    Learners can use science and technology by using:
  • Test instruments.
  • Measuring instruments. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Inter-relatedness of systems.
  • Learners can understand the role of the railway signalling interlocking system components in a railway signalling system. 

  • UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Learner and societal development.
    Learners can understand the importance of:
  • Safety in the workplace as well as in the whole environment.
  • Being a team player in the work environment and in society.
  • Communicating effectively in the work environment and in society.
  • Their responsibility for the safety and well-being of fellow-workers and society at large. 

  • UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Assessment process:

    Assessment methods:

    1. Written tests.
    2. Practical test.
    3. Oral questioning.
    4. Observation of practical task execution.
    5. Simulation.
    6. Role-play/structured classroom discussions and oral tests.
    7. Practical verification against specifications.

    These methods must be selected carefully based on the purpose of the assessment (for example, the written method could be used to assess knowledge or on-the-job demonstration for practical competence). The assessment must integrate a number of different methods (no less than three of those detailed above) in order to give the assessor reliable and valid proof of competence and evidence of required attitudes.


    The following may be used to supplement the above minimum assessment methods:

    Valid, reliable and authentic evidence (presented as a portfolio of evidence) from past achievements and experience may serve to supplement the assessment of applied competence. The portfolio should include inter alia:

    1. Written statements from persons (e.g. current and/or previous employer, colleague, peer, manager, external customers) confirming competence of the learner.
    2. Relevant certificates or awards.
    3. Previous assessment records.
    4. Logbook or register stating evidence of performance.

    Values:
    In addition, the following values should be demonstrated:
  • Safety consciousness.
  • Responsibility.
  • Integrity.
  • Quality consciousness.
  • Time consciousness.
  • Sobriety.

    Supplementary information:

    Terminology

    Job order refers to:
  • Job card.
  • Job instruction.
    Installation plan/diagram refers to a drawing or plan.
    Sub-standard refers to the deviation from specifications and/or standards.
    Site refers to field location.
    Installation notice refers to the notification of time, date, location and operational conditions applicable to the installation of the railway signalling interlocking system component.

    Communication protocol can include, but is not limited to:
  • Personnel structures, e.g. supervisors and subordinates.
  • Verification of messages/instructions.
    Installation procedure refers to the step-by-step method of installation.
    Installation specifications refer to size, quality, type of materials, etc.
    Non-conformance refers to a sub-standard.

    Communication media can include, but is not limited to:
  • 2-way radios.
  • Cellular phones.
  • Trunk radios.
  • Hand-held emergency telephones.
    Install means placing assembled and/or wired equipment in the required position and electrically and/or mechanically connecting the equipment to form a complete system.
    Commissioning refers to the process of certifying the correct functioning of the components of a flashlight and boom level crossing warning system.
    Hand over means to pass the responsibility of commissioning over to the relevant person.

    Certification:
    The learner will be certified as competent when an electrical railway signalling interlocking rack and unit have been correctly installed to specification:

    Credits:
    Total hours required by the learner to achieve the required outcomes:

    Activity
  • Theory-10 Hours
  • Practical-28 Hours
  • Self-directed learning-6 Hours
  • On-the-job learning-4 Hours
  • Assessment-8 Hours
    Total-56 Hours

    Credits achieved: 6 

  • QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  49066   National Certificate: Railway Signalling: Installation and Scheduled Maintenance of Equipment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered" 
    2023-06-30  TETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    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.
     
    NONE 



    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.