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: Rail Operations (Functional Yard Operations) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
23893  National Certificate: Rail Operations (Functional Yard Operations) 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Transport and Logistics Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was TETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 11 - Services  Transport, Operations and Logistics 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  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  2006-09-05  2009-06-17 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-06-17   2013-06-17  

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
66709  National Certificate: Rail Operations (Functional Yard Operations)  Level 3  NQF Level 03  121  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
A learner qualifying in this qualification will be able to manage and plan a functional yard to ensure the safe and timeous movement of rail-bound vehicles from one point to another under planned and controlled conditions.

A learner who has achieved this qualification will have extensive theoretical and practical knowledge and skills of all the functions in a marshalling yard and will manage the functional duties as required. This qualification will also form the platform to proceed into the HET band, e.g. Train Control, Transport Management and Transport Logistics Management.

Rationale for the Qualification

This will allow persons currently in, or aspiring to enter the rail operations environment (Yard Personnel) and others to obtain an integrated practical and theoretical grounding in the operation of a marshalling yard and all the functions thereof, which includes utilising, planning and controlling of movement for shunting purposes. This will ensure a portable, nationally recognised qualification that will -
  • Improve the quality of safety in the work environment;
  • Provide a better service to clients;
  • Lead to transformation in economic growth and social development; and
  • Better co-ordination between various functions within the yards, Joint Operating Office and open line working.

    The aim of this qualification is to create a life-long learning environment in which the individual can build on a personal career in the Rail Operations environment. The various skills programmes that exist will allow learners to progress to a national qualification in functional yard operations. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners who enter this qualification will have the necessary literacy, numeracy and communication skills at NQF level 1 as mentioned in the GETC Policy Document and the necessary Ancillary Health Care skills at NQF level 1 to: "Perform basic life support and/or first aid procedures in emergencies"


    Recognition of Prior Learning

    RPL must be demonstrated by writing assessment of critical underpinning knowledge, performing practical exercises and demonstrating competence through workplace assessment.

    This process to be followed must be discussed and agreed upon between the assessor and the learner. Formative assessment should be used against the unit standards and summative assessment against the unit standards and the qualification. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Combination of Credits:
  • Fundamental: 43 credits
  • Core: 73 credits
  • Elective: 56 credits (minimum 4)
    Total: Minimum 120 credits 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Exit Level Outcomes

    1. Shunt rail vehicles and compile trains complying with all the safety regulations under normal and abnormal circumstances according to requirements.
    2. Prepare and despatch trains from yards under normal and abnormal circumstances and plan, manage and communicate the applicable train service to all concern.
    3. Utilise the truck and locomotive control computer programme (Spoornet Information Network).
    4. Utilise the various semaphore signals, colour-light signals, track side indicators and train control methods for shunting purposes in a specific environment.
    5. Admit incoming trains to the yard according to specific requirements for the environment.
    6. Afford on track protection.


    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes

    In demonstrating the above-mentioned abilities learners must be able to:
  • Draw on problem-solving approaches, e.g. profile of wagons not correct - tarpaulins cover hand-brake wheels, containers not properly secured, etc;
  • Use modern computer systems and technology, e.g. reporting and/or monitoring of train, truck and locomotive movements;
  • Collect, analyse and evaluate information, e.g. written information about the position where various wagons must be placed, moved or removed for clients.
  • Understand how one system relates to another, e.g. vacuum/air-brake train operating methods;
  • Co-ordinate activities in team context, e.g. to work as a team for the safe and timeous reporting of truck/locomotive/train movement under normal and abnormal circumstances;
  • Demonstrate self-organisation and self-management, e.g. in arranging the reporting function of trucks/locomotives or trains; adhering to and complying with company-specific train working rules/procedures under normal and abnormal circumstances;
  • Communicate continuously with all role-players by utilising various appropriate communication media, e.g. written, verbal, radios, hand signals, etc. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.1 Explain the yard outlay and utilisation.
    1.2 Demonstrate the couple/uncouple of rail vehicles according to mechanical operating instructions.
    1.3 Apply hand signals and radio communication in the work environment.
    1.4 Explain related instructions for high-voltage earthing switches and perform high voltage earthing switching.
    1.5 Shunt rail vehicles safely and correctly in a specific environment.
    1.6 Compile trains correctly and safely according to marshalling instructions. (Separation trucks/different commodities)
    1.7 Complete the necessary documentation.

    2.1 Demonstrate the ability to prepare a train for despatching. {Roadworthiness inspection (tarpaulins tied up, knuckles coupled properly, train indicators, etc) and safety precautions}
    2.2 Demonstrate the ability to perform a brake test.
    2.3 Complete the vehicle list and related documentation.
    2.4 Set up a route for departure.
    2.5 Obtain authority to despatch.
    2.6 Despatch the train.
    2.7 Gather information to plan a train service. (Locomotive availability/traffic on hand/staff availability)
    2.8 Plan the train service. (Distribution of wagons)
    2.9 Communicate the train service to stations/zones, etc

    3.1 Demonstrate the ability to sign on/off on the SPRINT (Spoornet Information Network).
    3.2 Demonstrate the ability to report train, truck and locomotive movements.
    3.3 Demonstrate the ability to monitor all movements.
    3.4 Generate various reports. (rolling-stock delays, utilisation of rolling stock and various other reports)
    3.5 Print of vehicle lists and works orders.

    4.1 Utilise the various semaphore signals during shunting.
    4.2 Utilise the various colour-light signals during shunting.
    4.3 Utilise the various trackside indicators during shunting.
    4.4 Utilise the various train control methods for shunting purposes.
    4.5 Understand and communicate the correct message between the various parties involved in the work environment.

    5.1 Demonstrate the ability to determine what the trainload consists of.
    5.2 Demonstrate the ability to determine if available capacity exists in the yard for the specific train.
    5.3 Communicate the expected arrival of train.
    5.4 Set up a route for entry for the admittance of a train into a yard.

    6.1 Explain under what circumstances protection must be afforded.
    6.2 Explain what equipment is necessary for protection.
    6.3 Afford protection under various circumstances.
    6.4 Explain when protection may be lifted.


    Integrated assessment

    Integrated assessment must be based on integrated concepts, ideas and actions across the spectrum of unit standards to achieve competence in individual areas, as well as achievement of the holistic outcome for Functional Yard Operations.

    Integrated assessment must also be based on the learner`s ability to consider a range of options in order to make decisions and show evidence about planning and controlling safe movement on rail during shunting, compiling trains, preparing and despatching trains by utilising various communication methods under normal and abnormal circumstances and keeping proper record of train, truck and locomotive movements.

    Learners can demonstrate understanding of the theoretical knowledge that underpins the ability to make decisions about and execute planning and controlling safe movement on rail for shunting, compiling trains, preparing and despatching trains from yards by utilising various communication methods under normal and abnormal circumstances and keeping proper record of train, truck and locomotive movements. 

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International and National benchmarking was done throughout the standard writing process.

    The UK courseware received, was not applicable to the South African environment and the competence profiles do not match the related profiles in South Africa.

    The yard operations, as well as the roles within the South African context, differ totally in comparison with that in the UK rail environment.

    The competency descriptions/profiles also vary within Spoornet, Metrorail, OREX, Coallink and other private rail-related companies, but the project team compiled standards that will cover the whole spectrum within the rail environment in South Africa.

    Various Internet sites were searched, but very little information on standards and qualifications could be found. The following two sites were found and were used for benchmarking.

    RAIL TRANSPORTATION WORKERS (USA) advertise various jobs for the USA rail market, but if it is compared with the South African market and competency profiles, then it does not match any competencies at all. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This Rail Operations qualification has been developed for transformed practice across the rail operations industry and will provide articulation possibilities with a range of qualifications:

    There is portability between the qualifications in Rail Operations (Functional Yard Operations and Train Control) and the Train Driving qualifications, as well as the Rail Maintenance qualifications (Signalling and Track Maintenance) and on the higher levels with Transport Management and Logistic Management qualifications. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    SAQA and its accredited agencies will ensure that the mechanisms and bodies for internal and external moderation of learner achievement and of institutions providing the learning opportunities meet the requirements for transparency and the development of the field, sub-field and the NQF.

    Moderation of the assessment process and technical correctness of the assessor`s judgement must be done by a person who has been specialising in Rail Operations and who has been certified as competent against the National Certificate in Rail Operations, Functional Yard Operations or Train Control, which must include the relevant standards that the learners will be assessed against as well as being a registered moderator. 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Criteria for Registration of Assessors
  • An individual wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that has been accredited by the relevant ETQA.
  • A learner who wishes to be assessed against this qualification will be assessed by an assessor who has been certified as competent against the National Certificate in Rail Operations, Train Control NQF level 5, which must include the relevant standards that the learners will be assessed against.
  • Any assessor and training provider must ensure that the relevant company-specific procedures/rules are used as reference material when designing courseware, assessment or when selecting pre-designed assessments.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this qualification must be registered as an assessor with the TRANSPORT SETA-ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this qualification must be registered with SAQA and accredited as a provider by the TETA, ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be done by the relevant ETQA as prescribed. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 66709, which is "National Certificate: Rail Operations (Functional Yard Operations)", Level 3, 120 credits

    The national certificate is made up of a planned combination of learning outcomes that have a defined purpose and will provide qualifying learners with applied competence and a basis for further training. The unit standards in this qualification are building blocks for the National Certificate: Rail Operations (Train Control) NQF Level 4.

    In keeping with SAQA requirements, the qualification is made up of unit standards that are classified as Fundamental, Core and Elective for the purpose of this qualification. A minimum of 120 credits is required to complete this qualification.

    Learners are required to select electives that add up to at least the minimum for a qualification. Unit standards may be selected from the unit standards indicated in the elective component or cluster(s) that relate directly to the work of the learner and which will enhance the learner's work performance.

    Note on elective standards:

    When shunting must only be performed in a marshalling yard environment and not on the open lines, the fundamental and core standards will be sufficient for the qualification.

    When shunting must be done in a marshalling yard and on open lines (where systems of train control are applicable), the system of train control will determine which cluster of standards must be taken. Cluster 1 and one or more of the different utilisation standards in cluster 2 will apply.

    A Data Clerk for example must conform to the fundamental and core standards and "Record of truck and locomotive movements (SPRINT)" in cluster 3.

    Supervisors in a marshalling yard must conform to fundamental, core and elective standards excluding, "Plan, manage and communicate train service".

    Administrative personnel in the Central Planning Office and Joint Operating Office must conform to all fundamental, core and elective standards.

    There are three clusters of unit standards for this qualification:

    Cluster 1- Open Line Shunting:

    Elective unit standards that are compulsory for open line shunting:
  • Utilise various fixed and temporary trackside indicators for rail movement.
  • Utilise pilot working of train control for safe movement on rail.
  • Perform crossing of trains.
  • Execute departure/arrival/en route procedures for train personnel.
  • Utilise Telegraph Order system for safe movement on rail
    plus the applicable system of train control necessary in cluster 2.

    Cluster 2 - Systems of Train Control:

    Additional choice of unit standards, which will be determined by the system of train control applicable to the work environment on open lines:
  • Utilise Van Schoor system of train control for safe movement on rail.
  • Utilise Wooden Train Staff and Paper Ticket system of train control for safe movement on rail.
  • Utilise Radio Train Order system of train control for safe movement on rail.
  • Utilise Track Warrant system of train control for safe movement on rail.

    Cluster 3 - Additional credits for specific job profiles:

    Unit standards determined by job profiling and might include some of the unit standards in cluster 1 and 2:
  • Execute Train Operatiing Contingency plan.
  • Control depot expenditure budget.
  • Record of truck and locomotive movements (SPRINT).
  • Plan, manage and communicate train service. Note: SPRINT is compulsory for this unit standard. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  14641  Compile trains (harzadous and non-hazardous material)  Level 2  NQF Level 02  12 
    Core  14638  Shunt rail vehicles  Level 2  NQF Level 02  18 
    Core  14623  Afford on-track protection  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  14627  Operate high-voltage earthing switches  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  14594  Utilise semaphore signals/indicators for rail movement on double lines  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  14607  Utilise semaphore signals/indicators for rail movement on single lines  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Core  14613  Prepare and despatch trains  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Core  14611  Utilise colour-light signalling for rail movement  Level 4  NQF Level 04  18 
    Fundamental  14633  Adhere to disciplinary code  Level 3  NQF Level 03  1 
    Fundamental  8971  Analyse and respond to a variety of literary texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    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  2 
    Fundamental  9013  Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Fundamental  13156  Devise strategies for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Fundamental  14636  Follow grievance procedure  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Fundamental  8972  Interpret a variety of literary texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8969  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9012  Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  7456  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8970  Write texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  14645  Control depot expenditure budget  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Elective  14618  Execute departure/arrival/en route travelling procedures - train personnel  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  14655  Execute train operating contigency plan  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Elective  14621  Perform crossing of trains  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  14608  Utilise pilot working of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Elective  14622  Utilise telegraph order system for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  14668  Utilise the radio train order system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  14671  Utilise track warrant system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  14637  Utilise Van Schoor method of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  14634  Utilise various fixed and temporary trackside indicators for rail movement  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  14670  Utilise wooden train staff system of train control for safe movement on rail  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  14626  Record of truck and locomotive movements (SPRINT) Spoornet information network  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Elective  14651  Plan, manage and communicate the train service  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 


    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.
     
    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.