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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 QUALIFICATION: 

Higher Occupational Certificate: Routine Road Maintenance Manager 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
124545  Higher Occupational Certificate: Routine Road Maintenance Manager 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Occupational Cert  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Civil Engineering Construction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0632/25  2025-06-03  2030-06-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2031-06-03   2034-06-03  

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 qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
101864  Occupational Certificate: Routine Road Maintenance Manager  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  120  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Routine Road Maintenance Manager.

A Routine Road Maintenance Manager (RRMM) identifies road maintenance needs and plans, organises, directs, controls, administers and coordinates the routine maintenance of roads, and manages the physical and human resources involved in the routine road maintenance process in either a supervisory or contracting context.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan and prepare for RRM activities on site.
  • Manage compliance with RRM contract documentation.
  • Manage and co-ordinate RRM activities on site.
  • Apply ethics and interpersonal skills in the management of team and community participation.

    Graduate Attributes:
  • Problem solving and identification.
  • Decision making.
  • Communicating information.
  • Applying appropriate methods and techniques.

    Rationale:
    The need for this qualification is because South Africa's road network is crucial for its economic, social, and environmental development. Efficient and well-maintained roads facilitate trade, boost tourism, improve accessibility, and contribute to national integration. Given the country's diverse terrain and extensive road network, there is a critical need for skilled professionals who can manage routine road maintenance (RRM) effectively. This qualification addresses the gap by training managers to oversee the maintenance of road infrastructure, ensuring safe and efficient transportation. The lack of a skilled workforce in this area can lead to deteriorating road conditions, increased accidents, and economic losses. Therefore, this qualification is essential for sustaining the country's development and ensuring road safety. This qualification was developed to meet these needs.

    Implementing this qualification will enhance the quality of road maintenance, leading to longer-lasting road infrastructure and reduced repair costs. It will benefit the sector by creating a standardised approach to road maintenance management, improving efficiency and effectiveness. Society will benefit from safer and more reliable roads, reducing accidents and enhancing the quality of life. Economically, it will contribute to lower transportation costs, improve accessibility to markets, and stimulate job creation in the road maintenance industry.

    Individuals who are currently working in or aspiring to work in road maintenance management. This includes supervisors, project managers, and technical staff within municipal and provincial road departments, as well as private road maintenance companies. Learners are likely to have a background in civil engineering, construction, or a related field, and are looking to specialise in road maintenance management.

    Stakeholders from different associations and organisations operating within the routine maintenance and roads construction sector participated in the review of the qualification.

    Typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate are road maintenance supervisors, project managers, and technical staff within municipal and provincial road departments. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    RPL for Access to Training:
    Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

    Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

    For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

    RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA):
    Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

    A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.

    Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.

    Entry Requirements:
    An NQF Level 4 qualification with Mathematical Literacy. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 132301-001-01-KM-01, Industry, Contexts and Application, NQF Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-02, Acts, Regulations and Legal Requirements, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-03, Basic Training Requirements, NQF Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-04, Principles of Managing RRM Projects, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-05, Quality Control, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-06, Principles of Co-ordinating Information in Incident Management, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-KM-07, Principles of Communication, Documentation and Ethics, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 24

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 132301-001-01-PM-01, Conduct Inventory and Condition Assessment of all Assets in the Road Reserve, NQF Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-02, Identify, Quantify, Prioritise and Schedule the Maintenance Needs, NQF Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-03, Read and Interpret Relevant Contract Documentation, NQF Level 5, 3 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-04, Manage RRM Projects to Meet Time, Budget and Quality Requirements, NQF Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-05, Manage Payments Certificates, NQF Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-06, Apply a Site Management System, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-07, Manage Statutory Control of the Road Reserve, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-08, Implement Traffic Accommodation Measures during Maintenance Operations, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-PM-09, Apply Ethics, Communication Methods and Document Control Procedures, NQF Level 5, 4 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 44

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 132301-001-01-WM-01, Processes and Procedures for Inventory and Condition Assessment on a section of Surfaced or Unsurfaced Road and Compilation of relevant Reports, NQF Level 5, 12 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-WM-02, Processes and Procedures related to Compliance with Contract Documentation, NQF Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-WM-03, Processes and Procedures for Managing and Maintaining a Section or Sections of a Surfaced or Unsurfaced Road, NQF Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 132301-001-01-WM-04, Communication Processes, NQF Level 5, 15 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 52 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Identify requirements for on-site routine road maintenance activities by applying knowledge and skills in relation to finding solutions based on relevant evidence and procedures, taking into account the consequences.
    2. Analyse specifications in contract documentation and determine requirements for compliance of routine road maintenance projects by applying knowledge and skills in relation to gathering and selecting information from a range of sources and applying basic processes of analysis, synthesis and evaluation.
    3. Determine on-site routine road maintenance activities by applying knowledge and skills in relation to selecting and applying standard methods, procedures or techniques to plan and manage processes.
    4. Determine ethical leadership approach and effective interpersonal skills requirements for managing road maintenance projects by applying knowledge and skills in relation to adhering to prescribed and professional ethical codes of conduct, values and practices. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Identify requirements for on-site routine road maintenance activities by applying knowledge and skills in relation to finding solutions based on relevant evidence and procedures, taking into account the consequences.
  • Analyse and interpret SG diagrams, drawings, and specifications to determine project requirements within the RRM context.
  • Interpret drawings and assets, identify features, and vegetation within the road reserve according to specifications.
  • Determine and prioritise the condition of the assets in terms of degree and extent of defects as per requirements in accordance with RRM documentation.
  • Apply measurement principles for the quantification of the selected treatment of the various recorded defects, according to RRM project specifications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Analyse specifications in contract documentation and determine requirements for compliance of routine road maintenance projects by applying knowledge and skills in relation to gathering and selecting information from a range of sources and applying basic processes of analysis, synthesis and evaluation.
  • Analyse and interpret general and Special Conditions governing the contract to determine compliance in accordance with RRM specifications
  • Read and Interpret project specifications and schedule of quantities to determine RRMM requirements using the accompanying drawings.
  • Distinguish standard and Project specifications to illustrate, the different functions of the two specifications.
  • Evaluate sub-contract tender criteria for compliance in accordance with RRM specifications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Determine on-site routine road maintenance activities by applying knowledge and skills in relation to selecting and applying standard methods, procedures or techniques to plan and manage processes.
  • Identify requirements for a site management system for use in terms of the RRM specifications and requirements.
  • Identify and check activities related to planning, placing of signs, barricading, maintenance and removal of road/lane closures for compliance according to SARTSM Section 13 and Employer traffic accommodation drawings.
  • Evaluate activities related to inspection, investigation, reporting and implementing for compliance against statutory control transgressions and statutory control procedures and protocols.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Determine ethical leadership approach and effective interpersonal skills requirements for managing road maintenance projects by applying knowledge and skills in relation to adhering to prescribed and professional ethical codes of conduct, values and practices.
  • Analyse and interpret contract documentation to determine the RRMM project requirements for implementation purposes.
  • Analyse ethical practices, communication methods and document control procedures to determine their impact on managing RRM projects.
  • Determine communication requirements to assist with participation and collaboration objectives of an RRMM project.

    Formative Assessments conducted internally
    Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

    Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained.

    Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

    Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally
    Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills programme, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

    An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification or skills programme.

    Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

    The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

    External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) - a national assessment
    The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

    For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating the attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared with similar qualifications from Australia and the United States of America (USA). These countries were chosen because they have advanced road maintenance sectors and offer distinct perspectives on road maintenance education and professional development.

    Australia
    The Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) offers the Road Maintenance Management qualification. The qualification focuses on providing skills and knowledge necessary for effective road maintenance management, including asset management, financial planning, and technical skills. The qualification is accessible to professionals in the public works and civil engineering sectors, with or without formal tertiary education. The duration of the qualification can vary depending on the individual's pace of study and prior experience.

    Key components of the Australian qualification include:
  • Asset Management: Strategies for effective long-term management of road infrastructure.
  • Financial and Resource Planning: Budgeting, resource allocation, and financial management specific to road maintenance.
  • Technical Skills in Road Maintenance: Practical skills for maintaining different types of road surfaces and addressing common road maintenance issues.

    Entry into the IPWEA Road Maintenance Management qualification requires a background in civil engineering, public works, or a related field. Some positions might require professional experience in road maintenance or public works management. Formal educational qualifications in engineering or a related discipline may be preferred but are not always mandatory, as the qualification is also aimed at enhancing the skills of practising professionals. The duration of the IPWEA qualification can vary depending on the specific course or certification pathway chosen.

    It is typically designed to be flexible, accommodating the schedules of working professionals. Courses might range from short-term training (weeks or months) to more extended programmes that can take up to a year or more to complete, depending on the pace of study and the depth of the curriculum.

    Similarities:
  • The South African and Australian qualifications share a strong emphasis on asset management, financial planning, and the acquisition of technical skills necessary for road maintenance.
  • Both qualifications aim to develop professionals capable of managing the complexities of road maintenance in their respective countries.

    Differences:
  • The Australian qualification may place more emphasis on the broader aspects of public works engineering, while the South African qualification is more narrowly focused on road maintenance management.
  • The Australian qualification may incorporate more advanced technology and innovative practices in road maintenance as compared to the South African context.
  • The South African qualification's entry requirements is an NQF Level 4 qualification whereas the Australian qualification's entry requirements require a background in civil engineering, public works or related field.

    United States of America (USA)
    The National Highway Institute (NHI) offers qualifications leading to Certification in Roadway Maintenance. The qualification covers a broad range of topics relevant to road maintenance management, including pavement preservation, winter operations, and safety management. The qualification is aimed at professionals in the road maintenance industry, requiring a blend of technical and management skills.

    Core subjects in the US qualification include:
  • Pavement Preservation: Techniques and strategies for extending the life of road surfaces.
  • Winter Operations and Safety: Managing Road maintenance in adverse weather conditions and ensuring safety.
  • Maintenance Operations Management: Strategies for planning, executing, and evaluating road maintenance activities effectively.

    Entry into the NHI's Roadway Maintenance qualifications is generally open to professionals working in the road maintenance sector, including engineers, technicians, and managers. While there may not be strict formal education requirements, participants often have a background in civil engineering, transportation, or a related technical field. Prior work experience in road maintenance or a related area is typically advantageous and sometimes expected.

    The duration of NHI qualifications vary significantly depending on the specific training programme with the more comprehensive training programmes or certification pathways can span several months. The NHI offers flexibility in course scheduling to cater to the needs of full-time professionals.

    Similarities:
  • The US and South African qualifications both emphasise the importance of pavement preservation, safety, and the overall management of maintenance operations.
  • Each qualification aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to efficiently maintain road infrastructure.

    Differences:
    The USA qualification tends to have a broader scope, covering more diverse aspects of roadway maintenance, including specific challenges like winter operations. In contrast, the South African qualification may be more focused on the general principles and practices of road maintenance management within the South African context.

    Conclusion:
    The South African Higher Occupational Certificate in Routine Road Maintenance Management aligns well with international standards, particularly with the Australian and US qualifications, in terms of the core elements of road maintenance management. It provides a comprehensive framework that is relevant to the South African context, ensuring that managers are equipped to address local road maintenance challenges effectively. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Road Incident Management Co-ordinator, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Administration, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Occupational Diploma: Road Crash Investigator, NQF Level 6.

    Diagonal Articulation:
  • National Certificate: Vocational, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
    A minimum of 2 years technical experience working on RRM projects.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers
    Accreditation requirements, against which Skills Development Providers (SDP) and Assessment Centres, will be accredited, is found in the Curriculum Document, as listed below.

    The curriculum title and code is: Routine Road Maintenance Manager, 132301-001-01-00.

    Encompassed Trade:
    None.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
    Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA). 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    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.