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: Physical Asset Manager 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
118113  Occupational Certificate: Physical Asset Manager 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - National Treasury 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Physical Planning, Design and Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  225  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2021-03-25  2025-12-31 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-31   2029-12-31  

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 Physical Asset Manager. Physical Asset Managers optimise the performance and delivery of physical assets through systematic activities and practices throughout the life cycle of the asset within a risk framework to achieve strategic objectives. (Note: Within the context of this qualification, a reference to the system should be interpreted in its context and could refer to either an organisational methodology or a physical IT or manual system.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Design and develop a physical asset management system.
  • Perform strategic and annual physical asset management planning.
  • Establish the physical asset management capability of an organisation.
  • Implement and monitor the physical asset management system.
  • Report on operational and financial performance of physical assets.
  • Review and evaluate the effectiveness of the physical asset management system.

    Rationale:
    This qualification is critical to the effective management of public and private assets. Currently, there is no formally recognised qualification in physical asset management within both the public sector and private sector.

    The following bodies/associations were consulted in the development of this qualification:
  • Southern African Asset Management Association (SAAMA).
  • South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
  • Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
  • Association of Accounting Technicians South Africa (AAT SA).

    The target group of learners would be the following:
  • Asset Practitioner level: normal entry level in asset management up to supervisory level.
  • Asset Manager level: experience with a minimum of three years and upwards in asset management.

    This qualification blends the theoretical with practical and work exposure for the successful awarding of the qualification together with a professional designation by the relevant professional body. 
    		•

    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:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • NQF Level 6 qualification majoring in either accounting, engineering, quantity surveying, financial management.
    Or
  • Occupational Certificate: Physical Asset Practitioner, Level 6. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 121903-000-00-KM-01, Physical Asset and Facilities Management III, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-KM-02, Physical asset and Facilities Management IV, Level 8, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-KM-03, Strategic Management III, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-KM-04, Strategic Management IV, Level 8, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-KM-05, Financial Management and Business Engineering Principles III, Level 7, 16 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 80

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 121903-000-00-PM-01, Design and Establish a Physical Asset Management System, Level 8, 8 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-PM-02, Effectively Plan, Medium and Short Term Physical Asset Requirements, Level 8, 8 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-PM-03, Develop the Capability of the Organisation to Support Effective Delivery of Physical Asset Management, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-PM-04, Manage the Whole Physical Asset Lifecycle, Plan, Control Delivery of Components and Rationalisation of Physical Assets, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-PM-05, Being Accountable to Stakeholders and Disclosing Achievement of Operational and Financial Performance, Level 7, 8 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-PM-06, Implement Strategies to Review and Improve Physical Asset Performance over time, Level 7, 8 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Practical Modules: 48

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 121903-000-00-WM-01, Physical Asset Management Organisational System Design and Development Processes, Level 8, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-WM-02, Strategic and Annual Physical Asset Management Planning Processes, Level 8, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-WM-03, Physical Asset Management Capability Establishment Processes, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-WM-04, Manage the Whole Physical Asset Lifecycle, Plan, Control Delivery of Components and Rationalisation of Physical Assets, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-WM-05, Physical Asset Life Cycle Reporting Processes, Level 7, 16 Credits.
  • 121903-000-00-WM-06, Physical Asset Review and Evaluation Processes, Level 7, 17 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 97 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Integrate elements of the asset management system into a comprehensive whole and to all phases of the asset life-cycle.
    2. Assess the appropriateness of the asset management system to the business in which it is performing.
    3. Select and apply an appropriate methodology to review and evaluate the effectiveness of the asset management system.
    4. Develop from the strategic intent an asset management strategy in support of the organisational objectives executed through asset management plans.
    5. Perform and assess long term asset management planning.
    6. Maintain a sustainable asset management system.
    7. Manage the project implementation of the asset management system.
    8. Initiate and lead change in the organisation to improve the asset management system and the organisational capability.
    9. Report on the asset management system.
    10. Report on the financial performance of the asset management system.
    11. Apply a recognised management system/business process development methodology to the practical work situation.
    12. Assess and align corporate, strategic and asset specific risks. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Explain and motivate performance management in terms of the execution thereof, review and improvement of assets.
  • Describe and evaluate the interrelatedness of the elements of the asset management system.
  • Evaluate and motivate the appropriateness of the elements of the asset management system in terms of each phase of the life cycle.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Analyse and review the appropriateness of the asset management system in terms of efficacy, return on investment or cost-effectiveness, practicability; assess sustainability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Describe and compare various review and evaluation methods.
  • Justify preferred review and evaluation methods.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Perform a strategic comparison and review with recommendations and justifications in relation to values, outputs, effectiveness, viability.
  • Integrate the comparison and review with the asset life cycle.
  • Develop strategies for developing the asset management capability of the organisation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Reflect on a thorough understanding of the importance and the contribution to the business when the effects of a plan or strategy is calculated and proposed.
  • Include and integrate all phases of the asset life cycle.
  • Perform a strategic appraisal of the plan and formulate a comparison relating to internal and external criteria.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Identify and collect evidence/records of barriers and challenges for maintenance of the asset management system.
  • Evaluate and analyse barriers and challenges for maintenance of the asset management system.
  • Investigate and review the asset management system to develop recommendations and justifications to avoid and overcome barriers and challenges which might jeopardise the sustainability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Apply project management principles and practices throughout the implementation cycle.
  • Identify and analyse the barriers and obstacles to the implementation of the asset management system in terms of impact.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Initiate a process to determine effective ways of addressing change management.
  • Appraise and justify management tools to manage the organisational change and the development of a suitable culture.
  • Manage or influence the processes that support effective delivery of Asset Management strategy, objectives and plans.
  • Describe the development and management of competence in the boardroom, the workplace, and the supply chain.
  • Suppliers of products and services are managed and developed.
  • Form and manage contracts in support of the strategic plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Integrate the development of levels of service, information management, financial analysis, demand management analysis, risk management and optimised decision-making.
  • Justify reporting as a visibility element and include internal and external communication, financial performance, availability, life cycle, capabilities, improvements, achieving targets and statutory requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Contribute to the drafting and interpretation of a financial and management report by utilising data in the asset management system.
  • Reflect on compliance with recognised reporting principles.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Indicate the suitability of the applied management system development methodology.
  • Discuss critical success factors in implementation.
  • Describe methods to ensure that the system requirements of the aspects such as knowledge management and record management are met.
  • Reflect on compliance with industry specific legislation.
  • Describe methods to ensure maximum extraction of knowledge.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Relate asset condition management to risk mitigation strategies.
  • Interpreted relevant statutory processes and accountability requirements for applicability to organisational application.
  • Identify and address operational, safety and environmental risk assessment.

    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.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    The relevant QCTO Assessment Quality partner conducts an external integrated summative assessment for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    United Kingdom:
    Institute of Highway Engineers offers a Professional Certificate in Asset Management which covers the following:

    Asset Management enables an organisation to examine the need for, and performance of, assets and asset systems at different levels. Additionally, it enables the application of analytical approaches towards managing an asset over the different stages of its life cycle (which can start with the conception of the need for the asset, through to its disposal, and includes the managing of any potential post disposal liabilities). The qualification has a competency certificate and allows one to register with the Engineering Council in the UK. It provides for 30 Continuous Professional Development points.

    Australia:
    Central Queensland University, Australia offers a Graduate Certificate in Asset and Maintenance Management. The qualification allows the learner to learn about maintenance systems and strategies, and resource allocation in just four units. It is innovative and practical in its approach, providing learners with the ability to excel in the field of maintenance, reliability and engineering management. This qualification is part of a suite of postgraduate asset and maintenance management courses, allowing for progress to the graduate Diploma and the master of asset and maintenance management. The qualification is delivered over a year.

    Conclusion:
    The Occupational Certificate: Physical Asset Manager compares favourably with qualifications from United Kingdom and Australia in terms of the content, duration and level of complexity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides horizontal and vertical articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Arts: Housing Management, NQF Level 7.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Property Studies Honours, NQF Level 8.
  • Bachelor of Science Honours in Property Studies, NQF Level 8. 
    		•

    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 have a copy of a completed and signed Statement of Work Experience as well as proof of successful completion of the required subjects and modules or alternative programmes where applicable.

    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 Physical Asset Manager: 121903-000-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades:
    This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD:
  • None.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP):
    Southern African Asset Management Association (SAAMA).

    Related Part Qualifications:
  • 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.
     
    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.