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: 

Operate a diamond pan 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
421849  Operate a diamond pan 
ORIGINATOR
QCTO Task Team - Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
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 
This unit standard will be useful to people who are responsible for controlling the operation of a diamond pan in the diamond recovery process.

People credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the diamond pan.
  • Identify the hazards and risks associated with the operation of the diamond pan.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the maintenance of the diamond pan.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to operation of the diamond pan.
  • Clean a diamond pan and conduct end of shift procedures.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the slimes and slurry dams. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • Communication at NQF Level 2.
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    N/A 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the diamond pan. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Terminology used in diamond pan operations is explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The components of the diamond pan are identified and their functions explained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Screens.
  • Pullies.
  • Chains/belts.
  • Motors.
  • Conveyors.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The relation to the other machines in the production line is explained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Mining operation.
  • Diamond Jig.
  • Conveyors.
  • Grease belt/sorting.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The diamond bearing gravel is identified and explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The importance of controlling the diamond pan operations are explained in terms of achieving production requirements and up- and down-stream operational requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Hazards and risks associated with the operation of the diamond pan are identified and assessed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The required personal protective equipment is selected examined and used in a way that is consistent with its purpose, design and specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The hazards related to the installation and operation of the diamond pan are identified and addressed. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Set up and installation.
  • Electrical installation.
  • Operation.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The occupational safety, health and risk management requirements in relation to the set up and installation of the pan and the consequences of non-compliance with specified requirements are explained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Screens.
  • Pullies.
  • Chains/belts.
  • Motors.
  • Conveyors.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The occupational safety and health and risk management requirements in relation to the operation of the pan and the consequences of non-compliance in terms of specified requirements are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The occupational safety and health and risk management requirements in relation to the electrical installation and the consequences of non-compliance in terms of specified requirements are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Actions to be taken, should sub-standard conditions and problems be encountered, in terms of specified requirements are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The emergency procedures pertaining to the diamond pan operations are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Occupational safety and health procedures towards self and others are maintained in accordance with specified requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the maintenance of the diamond pan. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Good housekeeping practices are ensured in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Data are recorded and reports submitted in accordance with legal and site-specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Maintenance requirements are planned and execution in accordance with operational equirements, monitored. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Preparation for maintenance and the locking out of equipment in accordance with specified requirements is ensured. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Worn-out parts are identified and replaced as soon as possible (e.g. screens, fanbelts, bearings, seals). 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Electrical connections are inspect and reported on in accordance with standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Oil and lubricant levels are regularly checked using the required instruments and refilled when necessary. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Any oil or lubricant levels are immediately reported and rectified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the operation of the diamond pan. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Pre-start inspections and checklist are completed prior to commencing operations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The standard operating procedures are adhered to in accordance with legal and site-specific requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Feeder arrangement.
  • Water supply.
  • Product is secured and transported correctly.
  • Excess water.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The diamond pan operation and process is inspected in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The diamond pan operation and process is monitored, controlled and optimised in accordance with operational requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Safe and optimum production is maintained through effective communication. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The security requirements pertaining to the operation of the diamond pan and diamond separation process is explained in terms of legal and site-specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Work related hazards and associated risks are dealt with in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    The operation of the diamond pan and process is consistent with environmental policy and other related requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Clean a diamond pan and conduct end of shift procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Shut-down procedures are followed that are in accordance with standard operating procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    All the impurities including mud/sand sludge are removed from the pan and moving parts. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Waste materials are handled, stored and/or disposed of in accordance with specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Daily operational report is compiled and submitted, as required. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 6 
    Demonstrate knowledge and understanding relating to the construction of slimes and slurry dams. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The legal and site-specific requirements in relation to slimes and slurry dams are explained. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Mines Health and Safety Act.
  • Environmental legislation.
  • The legislation pertaining to water use and treatment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Construction requirements are explained and adhered to. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Slopes.
  • Pumps and pipes.
  • Area.
  • Legal requirements.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Safety and health requirements are explained and applied. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Must include:
  • Slopes.
  • Fences and signage.
  • Legal requirements.
     
    		•


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against the qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant QCTO Quality Assurance Partner (QAP).
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant QAP.
  • Moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant QAP according to the moderation guidelines and the agreed QAP procedures.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless the QAP policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the associated unit standard/s.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant QAP. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following embedded knowledge will be assessed in an integrated way in the context of the unit standard.

    Critical factors relating to the diamond pan:
  • Legal and specified requirements.
  • Achieving specified production requirements.
  • Risk Assessment procedures and actions.
  • Principal components, their specifications and functions.
  • Specified communication requirements.
  • Elementary principles of the process.

    Processes and events pertaining to the diamond pan:
  • Preparation.
  • Examination.
  • Diamond recovery.
  • Monitor and control.

    Causes and effects (Safety and Health):
  • Use of personal protective equipment.
  • Use of tools and equipment.
  • Workplace hazards and associated risks.
  • Housekeeping.

    Procedures and techniques relating to the diamond pan operation:
  • Methods of collecting, analysing, organising, summarising and presenting data.
  • Fault finding and corrective techniques.
  • Handling procedure and controls.

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies and standards relating to the diamond recovery process:
  • Safety, health and environmental legislation and regulations.
  • Quality policies, standards and agreements. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.
    Note:
  • The learner is able to interpret and respond to diamond pan operation and process conditions by taking appropriate action and/or referring the matter to the relevant persons. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
    Note:
  • The learner understands the importance of and promotes effective teamwork in the diamond pan operation and process by adhering to team protocols and actively supporting fellow team members. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage himself/herself and his/her activities responsibly and effectively.
    Note:
  • The learner is able to work in accordance with relevant operating procedures pertaining to diamond pan operation. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.
    Note:
  • The learner is able to constantly monitor and interpret diamond pan operation and process conditions by means of visual observation, process control feedback and interaction with fellow workers. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    Note:
  • The learner is able to interact with process control and other technology applied in a diamond pan operation. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.
    Note:
  • The learner understands that successful operation of the diamond pan depends on the successful integration between upstream, parallel and downstream processes and appreciates his role in that regard. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Terminology:

    Specified requirements include legal and site-specific requirements and are contained in one or more of the following documents:
    Legal:
  • Relevant Acts, e.g. Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act No. 29/1996), Minerals Act and Regulations, 1991 (Act No. 50/1991), etc.
  • Mandatory Codes of Practice.
  • SANS and other relevant standards.
  • Chief Inspector of Mines' Directives.

    Site-Specific:
  • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
  • Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management Programme.
  • Managerial Instructions.
  • Mine Standard Procedures.
  • List of Recorded OH and S Risks.
  • Working Guides.
  • Equipment and Materials Specifications. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  90655   National Certificate: Small Scale Mining  Not Applicable  NQF Level 03  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MQA 


    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.