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: Vessel Traffic Services Operator

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
103273	Occupational Certificate: Vessel Traffic Services Operator
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	168	Not Applicable	NQF Level 05	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 prepare a learner to operate as a Vessel Traffic Services Operator. The Vessel Traffic Services Operator plans, organises and manages the human-, physical- and operational aspects of the Vessel Traffic Service Centre to improve the safety and efficiency of navigation, safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment and/or the adjacent shore area, worksites and offshore installations from possible adverse effects of maritime traffic.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Perform traffic management duties.

Identify dangerous cargoes aboard vessels and follow associated protocol.

Perform, co-ordinate and manage port related duties.

Manage the receipt, analysis and dissemination of shipping information.

Safeguard uncleared vessels before entering port limits.

Identify incidents, emergency situations, and special circumstances and execute and manage contingency plans.

Ensure legal compliance.

Rationale:
In recent years, there has been a rapid expansion in Vessel Traffic Services (VTSs), which has led to a significant increase in the number of VTS operators required worldwide. The services offered by VTSs vary considerably, and range from simple broadcasts of meteorological and hydrological information, through the exchange of information to sophisticated navigational advice and in circumstances where the authority exists, navigation-related instruction.

The VTS traffic image is compiled and collected by means of advanced sensors such as radar, Automatic Identification System (AIS), direction finding, CCTV, and VHF or other co-operative systems and services. A modern VTS integrates all of the information into a single operator working environment for ease of use and in order to allow for effective traffic organisation and communication. A VTS should always have a comprehensive traffic image, which means that all factors influencing the traffic as well as information about all participating vessels and their intentions should be readily available. By means of the traffic image, situations that are developing can be evaluated and responded upon. The data evaluation depends to a great extent on the quality of the data that is collected and the ability of the operator to combine this with an actual or developing situation. The data dissemination process of conveying the conclusions of the operator exists.

A major factor in the efficient operation of a VTS centre is the standard of competence of its personnel. Recognising that VTS personnel are members of a profession whose principle interaction is with mariners and maritime pilots for the safe management of maritime traffic, their competence needs to reflect that professional responsibility. VTS personnel should be capable of interacting with vessel traffic in a VTS area. All VTS personnel should be appropriately trained before they undertake the duties associated with the type of services provided such as Information Service (INS), Navigational Assistance Service (NAS) and/or Traffic Organisation Service (TOS).

In order to carry out the duties required by a VTS Authority, VTS personnel should be appropriately trained and qualified to IALA V-103 standards. This means that VTS training is performed according to the Model Courses developed by International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA). It is for the VTS Authority to ensure that appropriately trained personnel are available to undertake these commitments. In order to ensure that IALA standards for VTS training meet the appropriate level, the VTS training courses should be accredited by the Competent Authority. This should help to ensure the competence of personnel that occupy operational positions in a VTS Centre.

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 4 with Mathematics, Physical Science and English Communication.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

Knowledge Modules

315401002-KM-01: Standard Marine Communication Phrases, Level 5, 9 Credits.

315401002-KM-02: Nautical Knowledge, Level 5, 8 Credits.

315401002-KM-03: Traffic Management Theory, Level 5, 5 Credits.

315401002-KM-04: Advanced Traffic Management Theory, Level 5, 2 Credits.

315401002-KM-05: Vessel Traffic Services Equipment Level 5, 4 Credits.

315401002-KM-06: Personal Attributes, Level 5, 1 Credit.

315401002-KM-07: Additional Personal Attributes, Level 5, Learning Contract Time 1 Day, 1 Credit.

315401002-KM-08: Emergency Situations, Level 5, 1 Credit.

315401002-KM-09: Responding to Emergency Situations and Associated Administration Functions, Level 5, 1 Credits.

315401002-KM-10: VTS Legislative and Regulatory Framework and VHF Radio ICASA Licence, Level 5, 2 Credits.
Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 34.

Practical Skill Modules:

315401002-PM-01: Manage the movement of shipping to ensure efficient vessel traffic management services, Level 5, 7 Credits.

315401002-PM-02: Manage vessel arrivals, departures, and movements to facilitate voyage planning and forecasting, Level 5, 3 Credits.

315401002-PM-03: Co-ordinate vessel arrivals, departures and movements to facilitate voyage planning and forecasting, Level 5, 8 Credits.

315401002-PM-04: Manage and disseminate relevant maritime safety information (MSI), Level 5, 2 Credits.

315401002-PM-05: Monitor and disseminate relevant maritime safety information (MSI), Level 5, 7 Credits.

315401002-PM-06: Manage threats to ships and port facilities, Level 5, 2 Credits.

315401002-PM-07: Co-ordinate threats to ships and port facilities, Level 5, Learning 2 Credits.

315401002-PM-08: Initiate and implement emergency procedures and contingency plans, Level 5, 3 Credits.
Total Number of Credits for Practical Skill Module: 34.

Work Experience Modules:

315401002-WM-01: Processes and procedures of managing and advising on the movements of shipping to ensure efficient vessel traffic management services, Level 5, 25 Credits.

315401002-WM-02: Procedures for managing and coordinating vessel arrivals, departures and movements to facilitate voyage planning and forecasting, Level 5, 25 Credits.

315401002-MM-03: Managing, monitoring and disseminating relevant Maritime Safety Information (MSI) I line with established protocol, Level 5, 15 Credits.

315401002-WM-04: Processes and procedures for managing and co-ordinating threats to ships and port facilities, Level 5, 15 Credits.

315401002-WM-05: Initiating and implementing emergency procedures and contingency plans in line with established protocol, Level 5, 20 Credits.
Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 100.

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Ensure seamless traffic flow within port limits.
2. Take appropriate action to identify dangerous cargoes aboard vessels as per associated protocol.
3. Perform, co-ordinate and manage port-related duties as prescribed by national and international regulations and legislation.
4. Manage the receipt, analysis, and dissemination of shipping information.
5. Safeguard uncleared vessels entering port limits.
6. Identify incidents, emergency situations, and special circumstances and execute and manage contingency plans.
7. Ensure legal compliance within the port.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:

Vessels traffic is monitored and controlled within the port limits as appropriate to the prevailing conditions to ensure the safe flow of traffic through the entire area.

Chartwork/publications are updated and recorded.

Effective and efficient port management services are performed.

Traffic flow of dangerous cargoes is addressed.

Equipment operation and availability are optimised.

The legal framework within the port limits is implemented.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:

Dangerous cargoes within port limits are identified.

The hazards are prioritised against legal and regulatory requirements.

Appropriate action is taken to minimise risk.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:

Information is co-ordinated, and pilotage and harbour operations are managed accordingly.

The port management system is monitored and controlled to ensure the safety of navigation and protection of the environment.

The utilisation of physical and human resources is maximised to ensure an efficient service delivery (pilots, tugs, workboats, launches, berthing staff, helicopter transfers and VTS staff).

Customer demand is satisfied effectively and efficiently.

Maintenance and repair within port limits are reported and followed up on.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:

Radar surveillance of all areas, Closed-Circuit Television CCTV and Automatic identification system (AIS) surveillance of the entire VTS area is maintained.

Co-operation is provided with port users and relevant government departments in the preparation of VTS sailing or route plans for traffic joining, departing or moving within a VTS area.

A vessel traffic plan is developed and promulgated.

Reports are prepared and disseminated to relevant stakeholders.

Manual and electronic log keeping functions are performed.

Performance is assessed and documented.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:

Vessel clearances are managed.

List of cleared vessels is received from port security services.

Service provision is executed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:

Emergency procedures are initiated and implemented, including liaison with emergency services as appropriate.

Routine emergency drills are organised and executed.

Staff is trained in emergency protocols.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:

Legal responsibilities, limitations and liabilities and their implications are understood and applied.

International, national and local acts and regulations are applied.

Integrated Assessment:
Internal Integrated 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.

External Integrated 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

VTS is governed by Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention Chapter V Regulation 12 together with the Guidelines for Vessel Traffic Services [IMO Resolution A.857(20)] adopted by the International Maritime Organisation on 27 November 1997. This qualification is compared to international best practice and standards within the VTS zone.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

Horizontal Articulation:
This qualification articulates horizontally with the following qualification:

Higher Certificate in Management and Leadership, Level 5.

Vertical Articulation:
This qualification articulates vertically with the following qualification:

Advanced Certificate in Business Management in Operational Management, Level 6.

MODERATION OPTIONS

N/A

CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS

N/A

NOTES

Qualifying for external 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.

Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
The entry requirements are prescribed by the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) Recommendations and Guidelines.

Further to the above requirement, the learner must have a current approved medical fitness and eye test certificate.

Every candidate should:

Master Port Ops theory (SAMSA).

Be in possession of a valid VTS Operator Certificate (SAMSA).

At least 12 month's service as Vessel Traffic Operator.

In order to maintain certification of VTS operational personnel, the VTS Authority should ensure that all operational personnel, under their jurisdiction, undergo an assessment at regular intervals. This could be in the form of a continual assessment at the VTS centre or a training organisation.

If VTS operational personnel fail an assessment or have had a break in service, for whatever reason and a period as determined by the Competent/VTS Authority, the operator concerned may be required to undergo refresher training or certificate revalidation as deemed appropriate by the Competent Authority.
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: Vessel Traffic Services Operator: 315041002.

Encompassed Trades:
This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
This is not a trade qualification.

Part Qualification
None.

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.

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