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: 

Conduct sound measurement 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
337139  Conduct sound measurement 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Manufacturing and Assembly Processes 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
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
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

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 
The person credited with this unit standard is able to describe and explain the equipment components used in sound measurement in terms of their function and purpose, in line with the manufacturer's specifications. Learners will also be able to select and calibrate the equipment appropriate to the purpose of the sound measurement to be taken, the temporal pattern of the sound and the type of information that is required. It will enable the learners to set up and use sound measuring equipment and interpret and report the results.

The qualifying learner is capable of:
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the principles of sound level measurement equipment.
  • Preparing to conduct a sound measurement.
  • Conducting the sound measurement.
  • Analysing and interpreting sound measurements.
  • Reporting sound measurement results. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication at NQF Level 3 or equivalent.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 3 or equivalent. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • Specific range statements are provided in the body of the unit standard where they apply to particular specific outcomes or assessment criteria.
  • The following scope and context applies to the whole unit standard:
    > Sound level measuring equipment includes: sound level meter (SLM), integrating sound level meter (ISLM), and the sound dosimeter. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of sound level measurement equipment. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Different types of sound measuring equipment are identified and described with reference to their typical application and levels of accuracy. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Equipment includes but not limited to:
  • Sound level meter (SLM) Type 1 and Type 2; integrating sound level meter (ISLM); sound dosimeter, acoustical analyser. Application includes: Measurement of environmental and occupational sound; personal sound exposure; sound levels generated by a particular source; spectrum analysis; sound survey; impulse sound.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment components are described and explained in terms of their function and purpose, in line with manufacturer specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Components include but not limited to:
  • Windshield, microphone, electronic circuits (octave band filter/A-weighting filter) and readout display, batteries, graphic level/tape recorders; tripods; software.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The use of filters is explained with reference to their purpose and limitations in measuring sound potentially harmful to human hearing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The importance of positioning the sound measuring equipment correctly is explained in line with the regulations governing its use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The limitations of the sound measuring equipment are explained with reference to the sensitivity of the equipment and impact of that on the readings. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The effect of meteorological factors is described with reference to their impact on sound measuring equipment and readings, subsequent value of the data, and the degree of compensation required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors include but not limited to: Wind speed; temperature; humidity; pressure.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Equipment for the measurement of meteorological factors is identified and its use explained in line with manufacturer`s specifications. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Equipment includes but not limited to:
  • Anemometer, thermometer, hygrometer, barometer, Tympanometer.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The importance of proper maintenance and storage of the equipment is described and explained in accordance with manufacturer`s specifications and the operator`s manual. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Factors include but not limited to: Shock, moisture, physical damage, excessive heat, battery life.
     

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Prepare to conduct sound measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Selection of equipment is appropriate to the purpose of the sound measurement, the temporal pattern of the sound, the location of exposed persons, and the type of information that is required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Purpose includes but not limited to:
  • Compliance with sound regulations, hearing loss prevention, sound control, community annoyance, Pattern includes: Continuous, variable, intermittent, impulse.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Equipment is calibrated by an accredited authority at set intervals according to calibration standards specified by legislation and quality standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Field calibration is carried out to ensure that equipment is fit for purpose and ready to use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Equipment is inspected for functionality, and faulty or damaged components replaced before use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Equipment is packed and stored in line with manufacturer`s specifications to protect against damage. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Health, safety and environmental procedures are adhered to during preparation. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Actions include but not limited to:
  • Identifying hazards; determining consequences; estimating the risk; removing, reducing or controlling the risk; use of personal protective equipment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Consent to conduct sound measurement is obtained in accordance with statutory and regulatory requirements and standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Threshold specifications are used as a benchmark for measuring sound. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Conduct the sound measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Meteorological conditions are checked and verified to be suitable for the measurement purposes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The equipment is set up in accordance with the operator`s manual and standard operating procedures for the particular sound measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The equipment is started, monitored and adjusted as required for the duration of the measurement cycle, in line with the operator's manual, standard operating procedures and factors which might affect the sound measurement. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Readings at the end of the test interval are correctly accessed and recorded for analysis purposes. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Equipment is calibrated according to specifications to ensure that it remains within the specified range. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Consequences of equipment variances which exceed the accepted range is explained with reference to data validity and required corrective action. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Equipment is properly cleaned, checked and stored according to standard operating. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Analyse and interpret sound measurements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Deviations from measurement specifications are noted together with reasons for the deviation. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Factors in the locale which may affect the recording are noted together with the possible influence they may have. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The qualitative assessment includes descriptions and what is actually perceived, as well as its qualities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Interpretation of readings is consistent with standard operating procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Report sound measurement results. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Information to be included in the report is explained in terms of a specific industry which provides sufficient background and results to take informed action as required. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Details may include but are not limited to:
  • Description of source/s and surroundings; all items of equipment used for the measurements, including calibration equipment; acoustic data; qualitative information and general observations.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Recommendations are made consistent with the data, and in line with standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The consequences of providing inaccurate data in the report is explained in terms of its impact on actions to be taken. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • An individual wishing to be assessed (including through RPL) against this unit standard may apply to an assessment agency, assessor or provider institution accredited by the relevant ETQA or an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.
  • Anyone assessing a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant ETQA or an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable achievement of this unit standard or assessing this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA or an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding in place with the relevant ETQA.
  • Moderation of assessment will be conducted by the relevant ETQA at its discretion. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following essential embedded knowledge will be assessed through assessment of the specific outcomes in terms of the stipulated assessment criteria. Candidates are unlikely to achieve all the specific outcomes, to the standards described in the assessment criteria, without knowledge of the listed embedded knowledge. This means that for the most part, the possession or lack of the knowledge can be directly inferred from the quality of the candidate`s performance. Where direct assessment of knowledge is required, assessment criteria have been included in the body of the unit standard:
  • Basic physical science (as it applies to sound).
  • Basic understanding of meteorological principles.
  • Basic occupational health, safety and environmental principles related to sound and noise. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
  • Identify and solve problems relating to measuring sound and the use of the equipment and the analysis of the results. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
  • Work effectively with others while measuring sound and sound levels and providing and presenting the results. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
  • Organise and manage oneself and one's activities in order to be meticulous in recording information and observations, and presenting reports on sound and sound measurement. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
  • Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information pertaining to the measurement and analysis of sound for use in a variety of industries. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
  • Communicate effectively with all stakeholders in the collection and reporting of sound and sound measurement. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
  • Use science and technology in the measurement and analysis of sound and in capturing and reporting the results. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems where the understanding that sounds affect people in and around the work place and community. 
    		•

    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 
    N/A 

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  59569   National Certificate: Electronics  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MICTS 


    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. Columbus Consulting Pty Ltd 
    2. K Boneng Consulting Services P 
    3. Paramixed Pty Ltd 
    4. SUPREME ICT CONSULTANTS 


    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.