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: 

Occupational Certificate: Diesel Electrical Fitter 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
102760  Occupational Certificate: Diesel Electrical Fitter 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-TETA 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 11 - Services  Transport, Operations and Logistics 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  635  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-26  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

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 Diesel Electrical Fitter.

A Diesel Electrical Fitter maintains, inspects, qualifies, overhauls, repairs, assembles and fits diesel engines and electrical and mechanical parts.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan and prepare work site, equipment, tools, consumables, and materials for diesel electrical fitting and maintenance activities and operations.
  • Install, connect and commission electrical and electronic equipment and control systems.
  • Diagnose and repair faults on electrical and electronic installations and equipment.
  • Assemble, qualify, install, maintain and repair mechanical components and auxiliary equipment.
  • Diagnose, maintain and repair faults on diesel engines and related diesel engine system components.

    Rationale:
    The availability of energy and therefore the need to generate energy and the ability to work on stand-alone diesel electrical engines, worldwide and specifically in South Africa, has become a priority.

    Current trades in this field focus on maintenance with no emphasis on assembling. The trade Diesel Electrical Fitter is unique in the sense that it is not limited to a specific trade area but incorporates a combination of skills from both mechanical and electrical skills.

    The occupation Diesel Mechanic is listed as one of the occupations in high demand. The Diesel Electrical Fitter is a specialisation under Diesel Mechanic in the Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) where it is also recorded as a Trade and Green Occupation.

    Typical learners likely to be attracted to this qualification are school leavers from the technical vocational stream (including electrical and mechanical), interested in the field of diesel energy generation. Already qualified artisans in the electrical or mechanical fields might also consider this as an opportunity to expand their scope of work and career opportunities.

    The competencies contained through this qualification are essential for social and economic transformation, empowerment and upliftment within the diesel energy generation environment, by not only focusing on maintenance but also on assembly while simultaneously improving the skills base of the country.

    On completion of the qualification job opportunities would also be available in all economic sectors using diesel power generators both locally and internationally. 

  • 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 result 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:
  • Level 2 with Mathematics.
    Or
  • National Technical Certificate N2 with Mathematics. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience Modules.

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 653306001-KM-01: Orientation to the diesel electrical and fitting working environment, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-02: Health, safety, quality and legislation related to diesel electrical fitting, Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-03: Fundamentals of electricity, electronics, hydraulics and pneumatics, Level 3, 18 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-04: Wire ways and wiring, Level 3, 16 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-05: Electrical supply systems and components, Level 4, 52 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-06: Rotating electrical machinery, Level 4, 19 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-07: Low and high voltage protection and electrical fault finding, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-08: Advanced electrical and electronic systems, Level 4, 15 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-09: Basic engine systems, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 653306001-KM-10: Problem solving and engine optimisation, Level 4, 10 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Knowledge Modules: 161.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 653306001-PM-01: Use and care for hand and power tools relevant to diesel electrical fitting, Level 2, 12 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-02: Plan and prepare worksite for electrical, diesel electrical and mechanical installations and maintenance, Level 3, 7 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-03: Test functionality of electrical equipment, control systems and installations, Level 4, 7 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-04: Install and connect electrical and electronic equipment and control systems, Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-05: Conduct pre-commissioning and commissioning tests, Level 4, 20 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-06: Fault-find and repair electrical installations and circuitry, Level 3, 15 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-07: Take apart, assess, repair and re-assemble direct current and alternating current motors, Level 4, 20 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-08: Test and maintain batteries. Remove, take apart, assess, repair, re-assemble, fit contactors and rheostats, and fit relays and switches, Level 4, 31 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-09: Dismantle, qualify, repair and assemble mechanical components of rotating equipment, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-10: Remove, take apart, assess, repair, re-assemble and fit mechanical drives. Take apart, assess and fit couplers, Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-11: Take apart, assess and re-assemble induction systems (including turbo chargers). Remove, test, repair, fit and commission diesel engines, Level 3, 19 Credits.
  • 653306001-PM-12: Prepare and service diesel engines and diesel powered systems and unit sub-systems. Diagnose and repair diesel cooling system faults, exhaust system faults, diesel fuel system faults, lube oil system faults, diesel engines and run-in and load test engines, Level 4, 31 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Practical Skill Modules: 181.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 653306001-WM-01: Planning and preparation processes for diesel electrical fitting, Level 3, Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-02: Processes of installing, wiring connecting, inspecting and commissioning electrical and electronic equipment and control systems, Level 3, 45 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-03: Processes of testing and commissioning electrical and electronic equipment and control systems, Level 4, 40 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-04: Maintenance processes for electrical installations and equipment, Level 3, 50 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-05: Process and procedures for installing and maintaining mechanical components and auxiliary equipment, Level 3, 40 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-06: Diesel engine removal and maintenance processes, Level 3, 25 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-07: Diesel engine sub system removal and installation processes, Level 3, 40 Credits.
  • 653306001-WM-08: Processes for diagnosing and repairing engines and engine sub-systems, Level 4, 48 Credits.
    Total number of Credits for Work Experience Modules: 293. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Prepare working area and tools for safe working practices.
    2. Install and connect electrical and electronic equipment and control systems.
    3. Test and commission electrical and electronic equipment and control systems.
    4. Identify and repair faults on electrical and electronic installations and equipment.
    5. Repair, qualify and install mechanical components.
    6. Dismantle, qualify and reassemble diesel engines components and sub-systems components.
    7. Identify faults and repair diesel engines components and sub-systems. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Descriptions of safe working procedures, safety precautions and Personal Protective Equipment required for a given task is accurate and complete.
  • Walkways and working area are unobstructed, clean and safe to start with the given task.
  • Tools selected are appropriate for a given task.
  • Completed risk assessment form reflects all related hazards and ergonomics as per standard operating procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The designed circuit diagram includes all required components as per given task and reflects the correct values.
  • The electrical and electronic equipment is connected correctly in accordance with the technical drawings.
  • Connected electrical and electronic equipment and control systems are functional according to specifications and reflect the correct values.
  • Cables and conductors are properly and safely terminated.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • All relevant testing procedures are executed in accordance with standard operating procedures.
  • Test results comply with specifications.
  • Commissioning procedure of all given electrical and electronic control systems comply with specifications.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Electrical equipment is tested as per given manufacturer procedure and fault correctly identified.
  • Electrical equipment is dismantled following the standard operating procedure and using tools and safety equipment correctly.
  • Electrical equipment is repaired and re-assembled according to manufacturer specifications using appropriate tools and equipment correctly.
  • Electrical rotating equipment is tested following appropriate testing procedures in accordance with manufacturer spesifications and is functional.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Fabricated gaskets and seals are inspected for the correct sizes and appropriate material.
  • Worn bearings are removed and replaced using appropriate tools and equipment correctly.
  • Mechanical drives are removed and repaired and functional according to manufacturer specifications following operational procedures and using appropriate tools and equipment correctly.
  • Couplers are removed and replaced using appropriate tools and equipment correctly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Diesel engine components and sub system components are dismantled and qualified according to standard operating procedures.
  • Diesel engine components and sub system components are reassembled according to standard operating procedures.
  • Diesel engine is tested according to manufacturer procedures and is functional.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Diesel engine components and sub system components are repaired and re-assembled according to manufacturer specifications.
  • Diesel engine components and sub system components are tested according to manufacturer procedures and are functional.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider 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 Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (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 assessment will be conducted through a trade test as prescribed under section 26 D of the Skills Development Act and defined in the Trade Test Regulations. It will be conducted through an evaluation of written and practical tasks covering critical aspects 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 3 days. A candidate who attempted an external assessment will be given recognition for those assessment tasks in which he/she has been found competent and not be retested in those tasks provided that: (1) The learner is competent in at least 50% of the trade test tasks given during the trade test, and (2) The recognition will be retained by the candidate for a maximum of 3 attempts or 18-months from the date of successful completion of the assessment tasks whichever comes first. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Diesel Fitters, Diesel Mechanics, and Electrical Fitters are trades recognised in various countries such as Canada, Australia, United States of America and New Zealand. Diesel Electrical Fitters requiring both electrical fitting and diesel fitting skills is unique to South Africa.

    In addition, a broad comparison on offerings revealed that in most cases apprenticeship training in other countries is not based on registered qualifications but courses mainly offered in industry sectors.

    Australian and New Zealand:
    The Australian and New Zealand Course MEM30205 Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical Trade:
    Diesel Fitting is part of the 3-4 year apprenticeship. The certificate includes a number of electives that cover maintenance of diesel engine system and sub-system components. It, however, does not include any electrical training. The Australian and New Zealand qualification UEE33011: Certificate III in Electrical Engineering directly supports the WA Electrical Fitting Apprenticeship. The UEE33011 qualification has a total of 954 nominal hours and will typically be delivered for 40 weeks per year over a period of three (3) years. It covers all the electrical fitting components. The combination of both these qualifications fully covers the content of this qualification: Occupational Certificate Diesel Electrical Fitter. The emphasis is however on maintenance and not assembly. The Railway Association of Canada (RAC) offers apprenticeships for Industrial Electricians and Diesel Mechanics. The course Title: Industrial Electrician (4-year duration) covers all electrical and electronic components. The Course Title: Diesel Mechanic (3-year duration) covers all mechanical and engine components. The combination of both these qualifications fully covers the content of this qualification: Occupational Certificate Diesel Mechanic (Diesel Electrical Fitter). The emphasis is however on locomotives and includes wheels and breaking systems. This qualification: Occupational Certificate Diesel Electrical Fitter is not limited to vehicles or locomotives and specifically excludes wheels and breaking systems as to provide the skills required to work on stand-alone diesel electrical machines found in mines, shipping vessels hospitals etcetera.

    Conclusion:
    The qualification compares favourably with compared qualifications in terms of content and complexity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualifications:
  • Occupational Certificate: Millwright, NQF Level 4.
  • National Certificate (Vocational) Engineering and related Design, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with the following qualifications:
  • Diploma in Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering, NQF Level 6.
  • National N Diploma: Engineering Studies, NQF Level 6. 

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience records including the Foundational Learning Competence.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
  • None.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
  • Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website.
  • The curriculum title and code is: Diesel Electrical Fitter: 653306001.

    Encompassed Trades:
  • This qualification encompasses the following trade as recorded on the National Learners' Records Database (NLRD):
  • South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) ID 61251 Diesel Electrical Fitter. 

  • 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.