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: Refrigeration Pipework Installer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
103265  Occupational Certificate: Refrigeration Pipework Installer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MERSETA (Manufactur) 
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  167  Not Applicable  NQF Level 02  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-09-12  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 enable learners to become Refrigeration Pipework Installers.

A Refrigeration Pipework Installer is able to install pipework and components on site in accordance with engineering drawings and specifications.

Rationale:
Refrigeration is an integral part of the economy found in many economic sectors and subsectors. Globalisation has brought with it technological changes that require employees to have skills and knowledge that will enable them to be in par with their counterparts. This requires learners to be trained in line with the latest technologies that will empower them to become employed or self-employed. This will enable learners to participate in the economy and thus be productive members of the society. In order to secure food stability and maintain quality for the entire population, refrigeration represents a critical skill in the maintenance of the cold chain.

Learners and current employees need to be trained against the latest technologies in order to ensure job security, advancement and placement.

The qualification is aimed at new entrants as well as currently employed personnel. Qualified learners are likely to be employed across the economic sectors that include but not limited to: mining, retail, food processing, warehousing, food production, automotive, marine, medical, engineering, fruit and wine industry, cold transport, farming.

This qualification is structured in such a manner that it will allow learners to progress to the full qualification by accumulating credits achieved from the part qualification.

Learners who have acquired knowledge and skills formally or informally will undergo a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessment in order to recognise skills acquired.

Qualified learners are likely to progress into engineering related qualifications, which allow for further career progression into designer, Refrigeration Mechanic, Refrigeration inspector, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR) Inspector. The qualification further enables learners to register with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA); as engineering technologist, engineering technician and mechanical engineer.

Learners can become self-reliant, productive by being self-employed, thereby contributing positively to the economy and society and further provide employment opportunity. 

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:
  • NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 642702000-KM-01, Introduction to the Refrigeration Trade, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-02, Health and Safety Requirements related to the Refrigeration Mechanic Trade, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-03, Scaffolding, working at heights, fall arrest systems and ladders, Level 2, 16 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-04, Trade related and engineering tools and instruments, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-06, Components and accessories of a refrigeration system, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-07, Refrigeration materials and piping, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-13, Fixing methods, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-14, Understanding corrosion and corrosion protection, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-15, Engineering drawings, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-21, Gas welding, brazing and cutting within the refrigeration industry, Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-23, Various refrigeration systems and components, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 642702000-KM-31, Manual Metal Arc (MMA) welding process, Level 4, 5 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 51.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 642702000-PM-01, Pressure test the refrigeration system, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-02, Erect scaffolding, assemble fall prevention systems, safe use ladders and erect aluminium towers, Level 2, 28 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-06, Braze refrigerant tubing and components, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-07, Cut, gas weld and braze refrigeration systems and structures, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-08, Manufacture a work-piece incidental to the trade, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-09, Apply corrosion protection methodologies, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-13, Install refrigeration materials and pipe work, Level 2, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-14, Plan for a project, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 642702000-PM-21, Perform fillet welds using the Shielded Metal Arc, MIG and TIG Welding process for refrigeration applications, Level 4, 5 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 48.

    This qualification also requires the following Work Experience Modules:
  • 642702000-WM-01, Positioning processes for the installation of complete refrigeration systems, Level 2, 10 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-02, Fall arrest systems and processes, Level 2, 8 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-03, Processes and procedures for erecting and dismantling access scaffolding up to 6mm, Level 2, 12 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-04, Assembling the refrigeration unit, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-06, Pressure testing processes related to the refrigeration system, Level 2, 3 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-07, Processes related to cleaning of a refrigeration plant, application of corrosion protection and responding appropriately towards faults, Level 2, 5 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-08, Installation of a complete refrigeration system, Level 3, 15 Credits.
  • 642702000-WM-09, Constructing a refrigeration system, Level 3, 10 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 68. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Install commercial and industrial refrigerant pipework. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Health and safety aspects are adhered to.
  • Engineering and electrical drawings are interpreted.
  • Components are moved and positioned.
  • Components are assembled.
  • Supporting brackets are constructed.
  • Refrigeration pipe work is installed.
  • Components and accessories are installed.
  • Plant specifications, SANS standards, drawings need to be obtained and applied.
  • SANS and Pressure Equipment Regulation is interpreted.
  • Documentation, reports, certificates are completed.

    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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The South African Refrigeration Mechanic qualification has been compared with qualifications offered in New Zealand and Australia. These countries were chosen due to easy access to the required information.

    New Zealand:
    The South African Refrigeration Mechanic trade qualification has been compared with two trade qualifications registered on the New Zealand Qualifications Authority framework. These are the New Zealand Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Trade Assistant) (Level 3), Ref No. 2365, and the National Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Level 4), ref No. 0130, with 284 Credits.

    The New Zealand Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Trade Assistant) (Level 3), Ref No. 2365, provides learners with competencies that enable them to assemble, install and maintain refrigeration and air conditioning systems under supervision. The qualification has 120 Credits. Access and duration have not been specified.

    The National Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (Level 4), ref No. 0130, with 284 Credits, allows learners to choose elective unit standards of their choice over and above the generic core unit standards. Elective unit standard from category A, which are listed below, have been found to compare favourably with the South African Refrigeration Mechanic qualification. Competencies covered in this category are:
  • Assemble and fabricate commercial refrigeration and/or air conditioning system components.
  • Modify industrial refrigeration systems.
  • Commission commercial refrigeration and/or air conditioning systems.
  • Commission industrial refrigeration systems.
  • Maintain commercial refrigeration and/or air conditioning systems.
  • Perform maintenance operations on industrial refrigeration systems.
  • Service commercial refrigeration and/or air conditioning systems.
  • Service industrial refrigeration systems.
  • Install commercial refrigeration and/or air conditioning systems.

    Australia:
    The Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems trade qualification, UEE42911 has been found to cover competencies that are covered in the South African Refrigeration Mechanic.

    Upon completion of the Certificate IV in Refrigeration and Air-conditioning (UEE42911), learners will be able to:
  • Calculate heat loads.
  • Select equipment for basic commercial refrigeration or residential air-conditioning applications.
  • Adhere to regulatory requirements when purchasing and handling refrigerants.

    Similarities:
    Similarities have been found to be in terms of the type of qualifications, which are all trade qualifications; key competencies to be demonstrated by learners upon successful completion of the learning programme and adherence to regulatory requirements.

    Differences:
    Differences have been found to be in relation to:
  • The structure and components of the South African Refrigeration Mechanic qualification in relation to the qualifications offered in the two other countries selected. The South African Refrigeration Mechanic occupational qualification is structured into Knowledge Modules, Practical Skills Modules and Work Experience Modules. All these components must be completed in order for learners to be eligible for summative assessment. It has been found that the New Zealand qualification, in addition to the core unit standards, learners are allowed to choose elective unit standards according to their career choices.
  • The total number of credits assigned to the South African qualification is a lot higher than credits assigned to the international qualifications reviewed.
  • Entry level requirements for the South African qualification is Level 1 with Mathematics whilst with the New Zealand qualification, learners should have completed National Engineering Certificate, Level 2.
  • Competencies covered in the Australian trade qualifications are all covered in one South African Refrigeration Mechanic trade qualification.

    Conclusion:
    The South African Refrigeration Pipework Installer qualification compares favourably to the internationally reviewed qualifications. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
    This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualifications:
  • Electrics: Chemical Electrical, Level 2.
  • National Certificate: Welding Application and Practice, Level 2.

    Vertical Articulation:
    This qualification articulates vertically with the following qualifications:
  • Mechanics: Chemical Welding, Level 3.
  • Electrics: Chemical Electrical, Level 3. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for the external summative assessment learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statement 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: Refrigeration Pipework Installer: 642702000#03.

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trade as recorded on the National Learners' Records Database (NLRD).
    This is not a trade qualification.

    Parent Qualification:
    642702000, Refrigeration Mechanic, Level 4, 543 Credits.

    Related Part Qualifications:
  • 642702000#01, Occupational Certificate: Domestic and light commercial refrigeration serviceman, Level 2, 173 Credits.
  • 642702000#02, Occupational Certificate: Refrigeration Fitter., Level 2, 209 Credits.
  • 642702000#04, Occupational Certificate: Industrial Refrigeration Mechanic plant room operator, Level 2, 112 Credits.
  • 642702000#05, Occupational Certificate: Mobile Refrigeration Fitter, Level 4, 400 Credits.
  • 642702000#06, Occupational Certificate: Refrigeration Maintenance and Repair workman, Level 4, 419 Credits.
  • 642702000#07, Occupational Certificate: Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Certificate of Conformity Verifier, Level 4, 142 Credits.
  • 642702000#08, Occupational Certificate: Refrigeration control fitter, Level 4, 169 Credits. 
    		•

    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.