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: 

Maintain and repair a bank of batteries as used in railway signalling 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
116882  Maintain and repair a bank of batteries as used in railway signalling 
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 3  NQF Level 03  8 
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 maintain and repair a bank of batteries as used in railway signalling by applying manufacturer's specifications and signalling engineering practice. This will ensure the availability of functional banks of batteries which contribute in part to a reliable railway signalling power supply system, safe and efficient train operations and effective rail transportation. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication NQF L2
  • Mathematics NQF L2
  • Knowledge of the principles of electricity.
  • Principles of train operating methods and railway signalling.
  • Knowledge of relevant statutory requirements related to the maintenance, fault-finding and repair of a bank of batteries as used in railway signalling.
  • Knowledge of and ability to use engineering hand and power tools.
  • Knowledge of and ability to use of electrical measuring instruments.
  • Knowledge and ability to route and terminate electrical conductors. 
    		•

    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 depending on the nature of the maintenance and repair tasks.
    3. At a field site (might or might not include overhead traction equipment).
    4. Under simulated or actual operational conditions.

    This standard includes maintenance and repairs on primary and secondary cells, in battery rooms and enclosures as used in railway signalling. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and procure the resources required to safely perform maintenance, fault-finding and repair tasks on a bank of batteries according to maintenance schedule, company specific policies and instructions and signalling engineering practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Job order is interpreted to establish the relevant resources required to perform maintenance, fault-finding and repair tasks on a bank of batteries. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The correct plans and/or diagrams for the maintenance, fault-finding and repair tasks are utilised. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The correct resources requirements are determined and obtained to perform maintenance, fault-finding and repair tasks on a bank of batteries according to maintenance schedule, company specific policies and instructions and signalling engineering practices. 

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

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Perform maintenance on a bank of batteries, battery room and an enclosure. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Maintenance tasks are prioritised and planned according to the maintenance schedule. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The preparation and execution of maintenance tasks are performed and effectively supervised when applicable. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The relevant safe working procedures are adhered to as per company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Company and manufacturer's specific specifications and instructions are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Potential failures are identified, prioritised, reported and corrected. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the maintenance of the batteries and operational changes are effectively addressed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Prescribed maintenance tasks are safely completed within the specified time frame according to signalling engineering practices. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Diagnose, locate and repair a fault on a bank of batteries. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Information relevant to the fault-finding task is gathered, interpreted and analysed by:
  • Measuring and testing on relevant equipment.
  • Visual observation of the condition, status and operation of equipment.
  • Referring to previous equipment repair/maintenance records.
  • Communication with relevant role players. 
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The relevant safe working procedures are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Company specific specifications and instructions related to the repair tasks are adhered to. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Unforeseen circumstances related to the fault-finding and repair process are effectively addressed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Relevant tests are performed to verify that the repair tasks have been performed according to signalling engineering practice and company specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The fault is timeously and correctly located and repaired. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Communicate with control and/or relevant role players before, during and on completion of the maintenance and repair process and complete all applicable documentation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Relevant documentation related to the maintenance and repair process for the bank of batteries is completed according to procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Instructions related to the maintenance and repair process on a bank of batteries are clearly and concisely communicated to subordinates. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The maintenance and repair process on a bank of batteries is communicated and co-ordinated with all relevant role players. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Specific communication protocol with relevant role players is adhered to when applicable (e.g. Operating). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Relevant communication media is used correctly according to company policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Communication is clear and concise. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Restore the site as per company procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Site is restored as per company procedures, policies and instructions. 

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

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hazardous and waste material is safely disposed of as per company procedures, policies and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Material, equipment and tools are returned for storage or repair as per company procedures 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 maintenance and repair procedures on a bank of batteries, a battery room and an enclosure:
  • Planning and procurement
  • Plans, circuit diagrams and symbols
  • Communication protocol
  • Maintenance and repair tasks related to a railway signalling battery room and enclosures
  • Battery room and enclosure types and specifications
  • Re-instatement procedures
  • Various types and functions of batteries used in railway signalling
  • Identification, purpose and function of parts and components of batteries used in railway signalling
  • Operation and testing of batteries used in railway signalling
  • Function of the specific battery bank in the signalling installation
  • Impact of battery failures on operational efficiency
  • Installation specifications of batteries related to the maintenance and repair tasks
  • Use and care of test instruments and approved tools and equipment
  • Identification and handling of materials
  • Restoration of site
  • 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
  • Maintenance and repair procedures on a bank of batteries 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Team work
    Learners can work effectively in teams when:
  • Implementing safe working procedures
  • Performing maintenance and repair procedures 
    		•

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

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Information evaluation
    Learners can interpret and evaluate the contents of:
  • A job order
  • Electrical circuit diagrams and symbols
  • Maintenance and repair procedures 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communication
    Learners can communicate effectively with relevant role-players related to the maintenance and repair process. 

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

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Inter-relatedness of systems
    Learners can understand the role of the batteries 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

    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
    Diagram refers to a drawing or plan.
    Site refers to field location.
    Communication can include, but is not limited to:
  • Personnel structures, e.g. supervisors and subordinates
  • Verification of messages/instructions
    Communication media can include, but is not limited to:
    . 2-way radios
  • Cellular phones
  • Trunk radios
  • Hand-held emergency telephones
    Overhead traction equipment (OHTE) refers to the high-voltage equipment used to power electric locomotives.
    Operational changes refer to changes in circumstances under which the work is performed.
    Re-instatement refers to the certification that the equipment is restored back to its original operational state according to specifications.
    A bank of batteries refers to a number of cells connected together.

    Certification:
    The learner will be certified as competent when maintenance and repair tasks were successfully performed on:
  • A bank of batteries used as a back-up power supply for a railway signalling interlocking system
  • A battery room and an enclosure

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

    Activity-Hours
    Theory-30
    Practical-24
    Self-directed learning-6
    On-the-job learning-12
    Assessment-6
    Total-78
    Credits achieved: 8- 
    		•

    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 
    Elective  66009   National Certificate: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 


    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.