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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Occupational Certificate: Heavy Equipment Mechanic 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
97582  Occupational Certificate: Heavy Equipment Mechanic 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  540  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
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 qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic. A Heavy Equipment Mechanic maintains, diagnoses faults in and repairs heavy equipment such as earth moving or mining equipment, including engines, mechanical parts and hydraulically or electrically powered systems.
A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on heavy equipment.
  • Dismantle, assess, repair and reassemble heavy equipment engine and power train system components.
  • Diagnose and repair faults in heavy equipment diesel engine and power train systems.

    Rationale:
    The heavy equipment maintenance and repair industry provides essential services to users of heavy equipment. The main users in South Africa are the mining, construction, agricultural and forestry sectors. Heavy Equipment Mechanics perform a variety of skilled tasks which enable these economically significant sectors to use the equipment productively, cost-effectively and safely, so as to obtain the maximum benefit from their investment and to comply with legal obligations relating to the condition and use of the equipment.

    Heavy equipment has become highly complex, and repair and maintenance activities have to adhere to stringent standards set by the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). This qualification will equip qualifying learners to meet these standards. Once qualified, learners will be involved in activities such as the maintenance of heavy equipment through regular scheduled services, the repair or replacement of components and parts, and the diagnosing and repair of system faults in a variety of types and models of heavy equipment. Learners may also be involved in the assembly, testing and commissioning of new or rebuilt equipment.

    Learners entering this qualification will typically be school leavers or TVET College graduates. The primary employers of Heavy Equipment Mechanics are OEMs, mining houses and construction firms. They may also find employment with plant-hire, repair or re-conditioning facilities. This qualification will also enable qualifying learners to keep abreast of ongoing technological developments in the industry and provide a basis for further career development. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related Curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a Statement of Results or certifying a Work Experience Record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • NQF Level 1 with a pass in Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge and Practical Skill Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 653307000-KM-01, Workplace fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 9.
  • 653307000-KM-02, Foundational concepts for mechanics, NQF Level 2, Credits 14.
  • 653307000-KM-03, Vehicle and equipment fundamentals, NQF Level 2, Credits 8.
  • 653307000-KM-04, Basic engine systems, NQF Level 2, Credits 8.
  • 653307000-KM-05, Vehicle, equipment and propulsion systems, NQF Level 3, Credits 13.
  • 653307000-KM-06, Electrical systems and basic electronic, hydraulic and pneumatic principles, NQF Level 3, Credits 16.
  • 653307000-KM-07, Advanced vehicle and equipment systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30.
  • 653307000-KM-08, Problem solving and engine optimisation, NQF Level 4, Credits 10.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 108.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 653307000-PM-01, Work safely, NQF Level 2, Credits 10.
  • 653307000-PM-02, Use tools and equipment, NQF Level 2, Credits 12.
  • 653307000-PM-03, Remove and install mechanical components (gaskets, seals, bearings and locking devices), NQF Level 2, Credits 10.
  • 653307000-PM-04, Work with electrical and fluid power components, NQF Level 2, Credits 10.
  • 653307000-PM-05, Maintain and service heavy equipment system components, NQF Level 2, Credits 15.
  • 653307000-PM-06, Dismantle, assess and reassemble heavy equipment diesel cylinder heads and sub-assemblies, NQF Level 3, Credits 20.
  • 653307000-PM-07, Dismantle, assess and reassemble heavy equipment power train systems, NQF Level 3, Credits 20.
  • 653307000-PM-08, Remove, test, repair and refit heavy equipment components and parts, NQF Level 3, Credits 15.
  • 653307000-PM-09, Diagnose and repair Heavy Equipment Mechanical systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 26.
  • 653307000-PM-10, Diagnose and repair heavy equipment electrical systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 12.
  • 653307000-PM-11, Diagnose and repair heavy equipment electronically controlled systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 12.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 162.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 653307000-WM-01, Routine scheduled services, NQF Level 2, Credits 24.
  • 653307000-WM-02, Removal and replacement of heavy equipment diesel engine sub-system components (including batteries), NQF Level 3, Credits 24.
  • 653307000-WM-03, Removal and replacement of heavy equipment drive train components, NQF Level 3, Credits 32.
  • 653307000-WM-04, Heavy equipment diesel engine removal and installation processes, NQF Level 3, Credits 6.
  • 653307000-WM-05, Removal and replacement of heavy equipment hydraulic system components, NQF Level 3, Credits 32.
  • 653307000-WM-06, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment electrical systems (charging, starting, lighting and auxiliary), NQF Level 4, Credits 12.
  • 653307000-WM-07, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment diesel engine electronic control systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 20.
  • 653307000-WM-08, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment diesel engines and engine sub-systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 20.
  • 653307000-WM-09, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment hydraulic systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30.
  • 653307000-WM-10, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment brake systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 20.
  • 653307000-WM-11, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment drive train systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 30.
  • 653307000-WM-12, Diagnosis and repair of heavy equipment steering and suspension systems, NQF Level 4, Credits 20.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 270. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Perform preventative and scheduled maintenance on heavy equipment.
    2. Dismantle, assess, repair and reassemble heavy equipment engine and power train system components.
    3. Diagnose and repair faults in heavy equipment diesel engine and power train systems. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Equipment is serviced according to manufacturer's specifications and schedule.
  • The service is completed within the specified time.
  • Appropriate tools, equipment and service parts are selected and used correctly and safely.
  • Technical information is sourced and correctly interpreted.
  • The work area is restored to its original condition.
  • All defects are identified and reported.
  • The appropriate checks after servicing are carried out correctly.
  • Oral and written questions general principles and critical issues relating to preventative and scheduled maintenance are responded to.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Engine and power train system components are repaired according to manufacturer's specifications and procedures.
  • The component repair is completed within the specified time.
  • All relevant safety and environmental criteria are adhered to.
  • Re-usability is correctly determined using the relevant methods.
  • The appropriate pre- and post-checks are carried out correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Equipment systems are repaired according to manufacturer's specifications and procedures.
  • The system repair is completed within the specified time.
  • The appropriate diagnostic process is followed and the root cause of the fault is identified correctly.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated formative assessment:
    Accredited providers will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated summative assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner, is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. The external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a trade test as prescribed under Section 26D of the Skills Development Act and defined by the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects of the trade in a simulated environment at an assessment centre accredited by QCTO and conducted by an Assessor registered by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB). The assessment will take place over a minimum of 2 days. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    International comparison for the Occupational Certificate Heavy Equipment Mechanic NQF Level 4 was conducted against international countries known to have good reputation for the provision of heavy equipment mechanic, such as Canada and Australia.

    Heavy equipment is used all over the world and is generally supplied by large multinational enterprises, the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) which stringent maintenance and repair specifications and with the standards for maintenance and repair activities. These standards represent best practice and dictate the level and depth of training required to equip trained mechanics to meet them. Representatives from three such international companies have contributed to the development of the curriculum.

    The Canadian qualification for Heavy Duty Equipment Technician was chosen for detailed comparison because it includes a very clear occupational profile. The learner with qualification will be able to repair, troubleshoot, adjust, overhaul and maintain mobile heavy-duty equipment used in construction, transportation, forestry, mining, oil and gas, material handling, landscaping, land clearing, farming and similar activities. Employment opportunities for learners having completed the qualification will be by companies which own and operate heavy equipment, and by heavy equipment dealers, rental and service establishments, and railway transport companies and urban transit systems. This qualification is acquired through an apprenticeship model.

    The Australian Certificate in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology qualification works as an apprenticeship, recognising learners as registered trades` people in heavy vehicle mechanics. The automotive qualification will train a learner to acquire skills and knowledge work in heavy vehicle road transport. Learners will gain the skills and knowledge to competently carry out service, repair and diagnostic procedures within the heavy mechanic industry.

    The qualification modules are also similar to the current one since there are those dealing with testing, repairing and applying safety in the working environment. Some of the employment opportunities having gone through the qualification, plus appropriate workplace training, will be to work as a registered trades' person in the retail, service and repair sector of the automotive industry, with heavy vehicle road transport.

    Conclusion:
    A comparison with the Canadian qualification reveals that the current qualification is comparable in terms of the occupational profile, the occupational tasks, the theory and practical training and the duration of the training.

    The comparison was based on the occupational profile, competency profile (where available), the formal training requirements, the training coverage, content and complexity, and the duration of the apprenticeship.

    The South African qualification is comparable in terms of content, level and complexity.

    The results of the comparability studies conducted reveal that this qualification compares with some of the best heavy equipment mechanic in the world. Qualifications attained is the way in which acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to operate as competent mechanics within the industry. Having acquired the qualification assessment to further acquire the trade test is accommodated for in the current as well as the said qualifications. Similarity in terms of the purpose was found in all the qualifications. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification articulates vertically and horizontally as follows:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Automotive Motor Mechanic, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 4.
  • Occupational Certificate: Motorcycle Mechanic, NQF Level 4 (to be registered).

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National Certificate: N4 Engineering Studies, NQF Level 5.
  • Diploma in Diesel Mechanic, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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.