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: 

Inspect, test and maintain high voltage isolators 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
259202  Inspect, test and maintain high voltage isolators 
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  12 
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 replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
13681  Inspect, test and maintain high voltage isolators  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is for persons in the Generation; Distribution; Transmission Sector.

The person credited with this unit standard is capable of:
  • Inspecting, testing and maintaining high voltage isolators according to statutory requirements; work site procedures and standards.

    This unit standard will contribute to the full development of the learner within the electrical engineering and construction environment by providing recognition, further mobility and transportability within the field of Physical Planning and Construction. The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and upliftment within the electrical engineering and construction environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Safety procedures (electrical).
  • General fault finding principles.
  • Electrical test instruments.
  • Relevant worksite procedures.
  • Isolating procedures.
  • Dismantling and installation procedures.
  • Read and interpret drawings and diagrams.
  • HV electrical induction awareness.
  • Use and handling of cleaning solvents and materials. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The range of this unit standard may be limited to carrying out diagnostic testing and applying preventative maintenance and replacement/repairs where necessary on High Voltage isolators.
  • Voltages may include, but are not limited to 66kV and above.
  • Mechanisms being: Motor operated or manually operated:
  • Diagnostic testing may include but is not limited to insulation resistance tests, time travel tests, contact resistance, auxiliary contact tests, motor run time. Motor operations and gearing, alarm settings, status indications to control panel, and contact penetration.
  • Major maintenance includes removing of oxidisation, stripping of all moving parts, `repairs to` or `replacement of` worn parts, replacement at contact fingers, replacement of defective seals, total adjustment of alignment, adjustments, contact tip penetration, replacement of defective mechanism components.
  • Minor invasive servicing includes cleaning, visual inspection of components, lubricating, replacing seals and operation adjustments. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and prepare for inspection, testing and maintenance on high voltage isolators. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Planning is arranged, integrated and aligned in terms of resource optimisation as per work site procedures and standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The scope of work and equipment to be maintained is identified according to the job requirement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Equipment, test instruments, tools, spares, materials and personnel resources are sourced for the required work according to the job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The high voltage Isolator is prepared in accordance with the OHS Act or Operating Regulations, in order for a work permit to be issued as per job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    A risk assessment is done on site and the work party is fully briefed on the equipment to be worked on in terms of safety regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Relevant safety gear and personal protective equipment are available as per work site safety requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Additional isolation of auxiliary/motorised supplies on the Isolator is done as per maintenance requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Carry out inspection and tests on switch gear. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The maintenance to be performed are identified according to the job card requirements and maintenance procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    A visual inspection is carried out according to the maintenance check sheets, or manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The diagnostic tests are carried out, recorded and analysed to determine maintenance requirements as per manufacturer's specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Personal protective equipment is used and safety procedures are adhered to throughout the inspection, testing process. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Carry out maintenance on Isolators. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Safety devices or work platforms are inspected, erected and used correctly and safely during maintenance and repairs as per safety standards and work site procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Disassembling of isolator parts are carried out for further inspection and testing as per manufacturer`s specifications and job requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The major maintenance or minor invasive servicing is carried out according to manufacturer`s procedures and worksite instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    All cleaning solvents, tools and materials are used appropriately and safely in accordance with environmental standards and safe work procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The re-assembly of the Isolator parts and components are carried out in the approved manner as per manufacturer`s manual. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Safety procedures are adhered to during the maintenance process, as per safety standards and work site procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Perform function tests and post-maintenance checks. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Work party is advised of Isolator tests and checks about to start as per OHS Act, Operating Regulations and safe work practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    All services and necessary control features are reinstated and approval obtained for function tests according to maintenance procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    All the function tests required are completed to ensure correct operation according to Manufacturer's requirements and work site standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    All the remote operating functions are tested to ensure correct operation according to Manufacturer's requirements and work site standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The isolator worked on is inspected and set for return to service as per maintenance procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    All alarms and relays are reset as per work site procedures and standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Complete all tasks on isolators. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    All the maintenance tools and facilities are removed from the site and the isolator is left in the `ready-for-service` condition as per maintenance standards and procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The work site is cleaned and waste material disposed of according to industry standards, environmental requirements and site specific standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Clearance of the work permit is confirmed as per ORHVS. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    All tools and equipment is checked, cleaned and return for safe keeping according to work site house keeping procedures and standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    All necessary documentation is completed and submitted to designated personnel, as well as all manuals and guidelines are returned for safe keeping as per work site procedures and standards. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any provider offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider through the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the moderation guidelines in the relevant qualification and the agreed ETQA procedures. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
  • A basic understanding and skills in the utilisation of specialised tools applicable to the task.
  • A basic understanding and knowledge of: legislation and applicable regulations.
  • A basic knowledge of: safety related standards and procedures.
  • A basic knowledge of: environmental awareness.
  • Able to read and interpret basic drawings, diagrams and manufacturers instructions.
  • A knowledge of: types of isolators and their components as well as the functions of such components.
  • Able to carry out inductive (resistance) tests. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively (in the ability to follow instructions when working by ones self or in a work team, ensure safe execution of work activities). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, evaluate, organise and critically evaluate information related to (inspection, testing and maintenance of high voltage Isolators). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Effective use of communication methods when (giving instructions to fellow workers, recording and reporting information). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environmental and the health of others (inspection, testing and maintenance of high voltage Isolators to ensuring that all safety and environmental conditions are considered). 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO CONTRIBUTING 
    Tasks using responsible thinking and decision making (in relation to the use and choice of relevant personal protecting equipment and safety equipment). 

    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 
    This unit standard replaces unit standard 13681, "Inspect, test and maintain high voltage isolators", Level 4, 12 credits.

    This unit standard does not cover major overhauls of SF6 circuit breakers and GIS.

    Specified requirements:

    Legal requirements:
  • SANS.
  • OHS Act and its extensions.
  • Local Authority.

    A glossary of terms about the terminology of:
  • Isolator means a device provided for the purpose of isolating apparatus from the source of electrical energy.

    The following terms and abbreviations relate to this unit standard:
  • ORHVS: Operating Regulations for High Voltage Systems (extensions to OHS Act).
  • OHS Act: Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • HV: High Voltage.
  • IEC: International Electromechanical Commission.

    Context specific:

    Specific to a discipline or a industry:
  • Manufacturer's specifications.
  • Work site policies and procedures.

    Supplementary information:
  • This unit standard can be assessed in a workplace environment, or in a training or educational environment if simulated equipment response and examples are able to be provided, or in a combination of both environments.
  • Performance in relation to the elements must comply with current legislation, especially the OSH Act and their subsequent amendments, electricity supply industry codes of practice and documented procedures. A full list of current legislation and industry codes is available from the SETA.
  • Reference to terms, procedures, and specifications in this unit standard may be taken as including documented procedures and specifications relevant to the workplace in which assessment is carried out.
  • Performance in relation to the elements must comply with Industry operating regulations for high voltage systems (ORHVS).
  • All work practices shall meet documented industry maintenance standards, including the quality management requirements, and the documentation of activities, events, and decisions.
  • The range of this unit standard is limited to carrying out diagnostic testing and applying preventative maintenance and replacement repairs where necessary on high voltage oil circuit breakers, high voltage SF6 live tank and dead tank outdoor circuit breakers, high voltage GIS circuit breakers, ABCB and VCB, and is normally done at electricity supply substations. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  72052   Further Education and Training Certificate: Electrical Engineering  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  As per Learning Programmes recorded against this Qual 
    Elective  66049   Further Education Training Certificate: Diesel Electric and Electric Fitting  Level 4  NQF Level 04  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.
     
    1. ESKOM GENERATION - PALMIET PUMP STORAGE GRABOUW 
    2. KP ACADEMY (PTY) LTD 
    3. POWER SYSTEMS TRAINING, CAPE TOWN 


    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.