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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Install electrical points 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
116870  Install electrical points 
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  11 
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 electrical points according to plans and specifications by applying signalling engineering practice. This will ensure the availability of correctly installed electrical points, 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 relevant statutory requirements related to the installation of electrical points according to plans and specifications.
  • 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.
  • Knowledge of and the ability to assemble and wire an electrical points machine.
  • Principles of train operating methods and railway signalling 
    		•

    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 specified time.
    3. Under simulated or actual operational conditions.

    When overhead traction equipment is present, the learner must have a valid certificate related to high voltage equipment, which certifies the learner to work under the specific conditions.

    This standard includes the:
    1. Installation of:
  • Electrical points machines
  • Electrical lock and detectors
  • Mechanisms based on the "Clamp-lock" principle
  • Derailers
    2. Connecting and terminating of the relevant control cables.

    This standard excludes:
  • The assembling and wiring of electrical points machines.
  • The installation of mechanical points. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and procure the resources required to install electrical points safely according to plan and specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The job order is interpreted to establish the relevant resources required for the installation of electrical points according to plan and specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The correct plans and/or diagrams for the installation of the electrical points are obtained and verified. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct resource requirements are determined and obtained for the installation of electrical points according to plan and specifications. 

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

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Install electrical points safely and correctly according to the installation plans/diagrams within the allocated time at the relevant site. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Electrical points are installed and the necessary adjustments 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 electrical points is completed within the allocated time. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the installation of electrical points are correctly dealt with. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Tools, equipment and materials are used according to safe working procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Perform quality checks on the installation of electrical points according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Relevant quality checks are performed correctly on the installed electrical points 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 electrical points is completed according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Communication with relevant role players during the installation of electrical points is performed correctly according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Specific communication protocol with relevant role players is adhered to when applicable (e.g. Operating and Protection Personnel). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Relevant communication media is used correctly according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Communication is clear and concise 

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

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    All equipment housing lids, doors, covers, locks, etc. are replaced and secured as per company-specific procedures policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Hazardous and waste material is safely disposed of as per company-specific procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    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 electrical points 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 


    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 electrical points:
    1. Planning and procurement
    2. Installation plans
    3. Installation notices
    4. Installation procedure
    5. Installation specifications
    6. Various types and functions of electrical points
    7. Identification, purpose and function of parts and components of electrical points
    8. Function, purpose and safe use of tools (hand and power) and test instruments
    9. Identification of material related to the installation of electrical points
    10. Restoration of site
    11. 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 an electrical points machine
  • Operational changes relating to the installation of an electrical points machine
  • Availability and competence of assisting personnel 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Team work
    Learners can work effectively in teams when:
  • Preparing the site
  • Handling an electrical points machine
  • Installing an electrical points machine
  • 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 an electric points machine. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use of science and technology
    Learners can use science and technology by using:
  • Lifting equipment
  • Electric tools
  • Test instruments 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Inter-relatedness of systems
    Learners can understand the role of the electrical points machine 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:

    1. Assessment methods:
  • Written tests.
  • Practical test.
  • Oral questioning.
  • Observation of practical task execution.
  • Simulation.
  • Role-play/structured classroom discussions and oral tests.
  • 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.

    2. 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:
  • Written statements from persons (e.g. current and/or previous employer, colleague, peer, manager, external customers) confirming competence of the learner.
  • Relevant certificates or awards.
  • Previous assessment records.
  • 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 electrical points machine.

    Communication 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.

    Installation includes:
  • The installation and termination of the points cables
  • Mechanical connections and adjustments to the points set
    Non-conformance refers to a sub-standard.
    Communication media can include, but is not limited to 2-way radios, cellular phones, trunk radios and hand-held emergency telephones.
    High-voltage equipment refers to overhead traction equipment (OHTE) used to power electric locomotives and high-voltage transmission lines.
    Commissioning refers to the process of certifying the correct functioning of the electrical points machine and relevant interlocking system.

    Electrical points include:
  • An electrical drive, lock and detection mechanism
  • The associated mechanical connections
  • Associated electrical connections
  • Civil assembly
    Installation means placing assembled and/or wired equipment in the required position and electrically and/or mechanically connecting the equipment to form a complete system.
    Hand over means to pass the responsibility of commissioning over to the relevant person.

    Certification:

    The learner will be certified as competent when at least one from each of the following categories of electrical points machines has been correctly installed to specification:
  • Electrical points machines
  • Electrical lock and detectors
  • Mechanisms based on the "Clamp-lock" principle

    Credits:

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

    Activity - Hours

    Theory - 30
    Practical - 60
    Self-directed learning - 7
    On-the-job learning (N/A) - 0
    Assessment - 13
    Total - 110
    Credits achieved: 11 
    		•

    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.