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: Oxidant Gas System Installer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
117333  Occupational Certificate: Oxidant Gas System Installer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CHIETA 
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  323  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  SAQA 12129/20  2020-07-30  2025-07-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-07-30   2029-07-30  

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 function as an Oxidant Gas System Installer. The Oxidant Gas System Installers install, construct, inspect, maintain, modify, repair and perform commissioning activities on oxidant gas systems. Oxidant gases include but not limited to: oxygen and nitrous oxide.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Construct and install oxidant gas systems as per the scope of work.
  • Perform commissioning activities on gas systems.
  • Conduct handover sessions when required by the scope of work with the end-user.
  • Inspect, maintain and repair gas systems to required legal requirements.
  • Modify gas systems according to engineering management of change (EMOC) requirements.

    Rationale:
    The South African gas industry is highly regulated and legislation requires gas practitioners to have formally recognised qualifications. It is a growing industry with an increasing demand for gas systems in domestic, commercial and industrial settings.

    Various industries in South Africa will benefit by implementing the cost-effective and improved processes that gas options provide. Industries such as, manufacturing, visual arts, food and beverage will benefit from better service delivery which includes consistency in safety and quality standards according to the national and international requirements. It also opens opportunities to industry to introduce new manufacturing technologies requiring gas supply.

    The spinoff of the safe supply of gas through competent service providers is enormous, e.g. reducing the risk footprint in the country, reducing the possibility of incidents and reducing economic losses. It will make South Africa more attractive in the international market for the manufacturing of products, through cost-cutting technologies relying on gas supply. This qualification will contribute to the full development of the learner within the gas installation industry by providing recognition as well as further mobility within the gas field. The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this qualification are essential for social and economic transformation. They will contribute to progression and economic growth within the gas installation and maintenance industry.

    An Oxidant Gas System Installer will be equipped to follow an independent career in gas installations and maintenance. The majority of learners for this qualification are likely to be learner-installers in small independent gas companies and it is foreseen that the learners will eventually be able to independently run their own gas installation and maintenance operations. However, employment in big companies is also a possibility.

    This occupation co-exists with similar occupations. The following proficiencies recognised by the industry as employment opportunities were identified in this occupation:
  • Flammable Gas System Installer.
  • Food and Beverage Gas System.
  • Installer Inert Gas System Installer.
  • Medical Gas System Installer.
  • Speciality Gas System Installer.

    During the development of this occupational qualification the above mentioned proficiencies were provided for as part qualifications. Prospective learners include school leavers who wish to pursue a career in the gas industry as well as persons currently employed or operating in the gas industry but with no formal recognition for their skills.

    Through the employment of competent installation personnel, employers and, in turn, the field and sub-field, will have confidence that this critical work in the industry is safely and efficiently carried out. 

  • 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 by 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 2 qualification 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:
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-01, Basic Gas Science, Technology and Gas Systems, Level 2, 6 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-02, Intermediate Gas Science for Gas Systems, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-03, Gas Science and Physics for Gas Installations, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-04, Gas Systems Drawings and Design, Interpretation, Level 3, 12 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-05, Occupational Health, Safety, Risk, Environment and Quality in the Gas Industry, Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 642603-000-, 00-00-KM-06, Gas Installation Business Practices, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-07, Basic Electrical Management System used in the Gas Industry, 4, 12 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-08, Tools, Equipment and Machinery used in Gas Installations, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-09, Pipe Welding for Gas Installations, Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-10, Introduction to Gas Standards, Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-11, Gas Technology and Systems, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-12, Gas System Installation and Construction, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-13, Gas System Maintenance, Decommissioning and Recommissioning, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-KM-18, Oxidant Gas Systems and Technology, Level 5, 9 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 116.

    Practical Skill Modules
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-01, Maintain and Use Tools, Equipment and Machinery for Installation of Gas Systems, Level 2, 4 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-02, Weld and Gas Cut Components for Gas Installations, 3, 36 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-03, Construct Pipe Work for Gas Installations, 3 Level, 8 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-04, Construct and Install a Legally and Code Compliant Gas System, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-05, Inspect, Test and Confirm Gas System Compliance with Design and Scope Parameters, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-06, Assess Gas Equipment or System Troubleshoot Problems and Repair or, Replace Faulty Equipment or System, Level 4, 8 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-PM-07, Adhere to Safe Work Practices in the, Gas Industry, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 313109-000-00-00-PM-12, Install, Repair, Maintain and Modify Oxidant Gas Systems, Level 5, 8 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 91.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 642603-000-00-00-WM-01, Gas System On-Site Construction and Installation, Level 4, 50 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-WM-02, Gas System Commissioning, Certification and Handover Processes, Level 4, 30 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-WM-03, Corrective, Planned and Statutory Maintenance Processes of Gas Systems, Level 4, 20 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-WM-04, Gas System Modification, 4, 20 Credits.
  • 642603-000-00-00-WM-09, Oxidant Gas Systems Installation, Repair, Maintenance and Modification, 5, 11 Credits.

    The total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 131. 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate an understanding of the underpinning theory of gas and oxidant gas systems.
    2. Compile a bill of materials for a legally compliant oxidant gas system.
    3. Assemble, construct and test an oxidant gas system based on volume, pressure and integrity according to oxidant gas system demand which is legal and codes compliant.
    4. Commission and conduct a final sign-off of a legally and code-compliant oxidant gas system.
    5. Conduct fault finding and take remedial action on an oxidant gas system or maintain installation to ensure safe working conditions of the system.
    6. Comply with safety and quality industry codes and legal aspects when installing an oxidant gas system and working with gases. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Describe gas properties of a range of gases with reference to the specific oxidant gas system.
  • Analyse oxidant gas systems and identify components and explain the function of each.
  • Analyse the function of pipes, pressure and safety accessories in relation to an oxidant gas system.
  • Define principles regarding installing an oxidant gas system.
  • Identify gas equipment and describe the function thereof.
  • Justify material compatibility according to gas type.
  • Define and analyse basic instrument control loops in terms of an oxidant gas system.
  • Identify pipelines and network systems and evaluate their functions in terms of an oxidant gas system.
  • Describe the function, application and safety requirement of engineering hand tools and power tools.
  • Evaluate important considerations in terms of the maintenance of the gas installation.
  • Define and describe basic welding principles, equipment and consumables.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse a set of piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID) to determine the material and equipment.
  • Analyse the design, scope of work, site lay-out and isometric drawings of an oxidant gas system to determine a bill of materials.
  • Compile a correct bill of materials to execute the installation based on findings of the analysis.
  • Consider safety equipment and requirements as per the scope of work.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Conduct a risk assessment of the installation which includes references to working at heights and confined spaces, pneumatic pressure testing, lockout procedures and permit to work.
  • Position main equipment for oxidant gas systems according to the oxidant gas system design.
  • Interconnect and assemble gas installation components such as pipelines, pressure and safety accessories, to form a complete oxidant gas system.
  • Ensure that the installation of an oxidant gas system is legal and code compliant.
  • Conduct applicable pressure tests and leak tests to prove the integrity of the oxidant gas system.
  • Make available correct tools and personnel to conduct the work are available.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Conduct pre-commissioning checks of an oxidant gas system to ensure compliance with the design.
  • Purge the oxidant gas system by introducing an inert gas into the system to remove sufficient amounts of oxygen to ensure that the oxygen level is below the lower explosive limit.
  • Introduce the applicable gas into the system to ensure the sufficient amount of gas is present for use.
  • Conduct a functionality test is conducted to confirm gas shut-off and functionality of all safety equipment.
  • Conduct start-up and performance checks confirming all safety measures are operational including interlocks.
  • Issue a certificate of compliance (COC) for the oxidant gas system and prepare and finalise hand-over documentation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Apply fault finding sequence to detect defects and potential risks and to determine the root cause of failure of the oxidant gas system.
  • Compile a typical maintenance plan for the oxidant gas system which includes planned and statutory maintenance requirements to maintain operational safety and optimum performance and reliability.
  • Conduct de-commissioning and make safe procedures before maintenance of an oxidant gas system.
  • Conduct statutory maintenance on an oxidant gas system according to legal requirements.
  • Re-commission gas into an oxidant gas system and return the oxidant gas system to normal operating conditions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Define site safety concepts and analyse compliance in terms of an oxidant gas system.
  • Define and analyse occupational health, safety, risk and environment compliance.
  • Identify applicable gas regulations, legislation and standards and explain the application to gas installation.
  • Analyse quality principles in the gas industry.

    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development 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 to issue this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria. The external summative assessment will be a test 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 a registered assessor. The assessment will take place over a minimum period of 2 days. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared with the Canadian Red Seal qualification "Gas Fitter - Class A" as well as the New Zealand Certificate in Gasfitting (Level 4).

    Canada:
    The Red Seal Gas Fitter "Class A" qualification, offered by Thompson Rivers University is an apprenticeship and is at Level 4. The duration is three years including a minimum of 4,500 hours of on-the-job training, three eight (8)-week blocks of technical training and a final certificate examination after which is being awarded a journeyperson certificate.

    Entry requirements entail a Grade 9 education or equivalent and passing an entrance examination, or having a gasfitter 2nd Class certification. The qualification includes the following aspects:
  • Common occupational skills which include safety-related functions, use and maintenance of tools and equipment and planning and preparing for installation, service and maintenance of installations.
  • Gas piping preparation and assembly which include tube and tubing, plastic piping and steel pipe for gas piping systems.
  • Venting and air supply systems which include the installation of venting, air supply systems and draft control systems.
  • Controls and electrical systems which include selection and installation of electronic and electrical components, automation and instrumentation control systems.
  • Installation of systems and equipment which include installation of gas-fired system piping and equipment, gas-fired system components and propane storage and handling systems.
  • Testing and commissioning of gas-fired systems.
  • Servicing gas-fired systems which include maintenance, repairing and decommissioning of gas-fired systems.
  • Essential skills include reading, document use, writing, numeracy, oral communication, thinking skills, working with others, computer use and continuous learning competencies.

    The Canadian qualification does not specify the various gas types per gas categories.

    New Zealand:
    The New Zealand Certificate in Gasfitting (Level 4) (2662) consists of 235 Credits, is offered by Unitec Institute of Technology. The qualification includes the following aspects:
  • Install, test, commission and maintain gasfitting systems in accordance with the legal requirements for a licensed gasfitter, including: Consumer gas pipework; Gas appliances; Gas equipment; Flueing and ventilation; and LPG installations for non-propulsive purposes in caravans and boats.
  • Interpret gasfitting drawings and specifications and produce drawings and records of as built work.
  • Understand and apply the legislative responsibilities of a licensed gasfitter.
  • Make, install and repair flashings and penetrations that are associated with gasfitting systems.
  • Work with consideration of other construction trades and related services on-site and practice ethically.
  • Apply material science and selection, trade physics, and environmentally sustainable considerations for gasfitting systems.
  • Apply safe working procedures and practices identify and control hazards in a working environment and isolate and test for safety and explain the limitations on gasfitters carrying out electrical work. 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification allows opportunities for both horizontal and vertical articulation:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Occupational Certificate: Pipe Fitter, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
    Vertical articulation is possible with:
  • Occupational Certificate: Draughtsperson (Piping Draught Person), NQF Level 5. 

  • 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 Foundation 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 QCTO website.

    The curriculum title and code is: Oxidant Gas System Installer and 642603-000-00-05.

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

    Assessment Quality Partner:
    National Artisan Moderation Body. 

  • 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.