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: Cable Jointer (Electric Cable Jointer) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
119991  Occupational certificate: Cable Jointer (Electric Cable Jointer) 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner-EWSETA 
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  180  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0522/24  2022-11-22  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 an Electric Cable Jointer.

An Electric Cable Jointer plans, prepares, installs, joints and terminates low voltage (LV) (1000V) and medium voltage (MV) (up to and including 44kV) cables under dead (at zero potential) conditions.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan and prepare for low voltage cable jointing equipment and operations and plan and conduct on-site preparation by setting up equipment for jointing procedures.
  • Install, test, joint and terminate low voltage cables (dead) complying with statutory requirements and manufacturer specifications.
  • Plan and prepare for medium voltage cable jointing equipment and operations and plan and conduct on-site preparation by setting up equipment for jointing procedures.
  • Install, test, joint and terminate medium voltage cables (dead) complying with statutory requirements and manufacturer specifications.

    Rationale
    Electric Cable Jointers perform a critically important role in the economy in terms of the infrastructure for the supply of electricity to households, commercial enterprises, and industrial sites. The demand for the supply of electricity and electrical infrastructure is ever increasing and is directly linked to an ever-increasing need for qualified Electric Cable Jointers. It is important to recognise this occupation and the related skills and knowledge for the following reasons:
  • The complexity of cables and cable jointing systems has increased.
  • The renewal of the aging electrical infrastructure of South Africa requires formally qualified Electric Cable Jointers if the cable jointing and termination failures are not to persist.
  • Infrastructural development projects will require the services of formally qualified Electric Cable Jointers.
  • Electrical service providers, such as municipalities, find it difficult to identify contractors who have the required knowledge and skills.

    The above reasons provide clear motivation for the need for this qualification and the socio-economic contributions qualified Electrical Cable Jointers will make. The sector will benefit by an increased number of qualified Electrical Cable Jointers in terms of electrical infrastructural developments and replacement of aging electrical infrastructure.

    There are no similar qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework.

    The qualification is designed to provide for qualifying learners in two distinct groups, namely low voltage (0 up to and including 1000V) cable jointing in dead conditions and medium voltage (up to and including 44kV) cable jointing under dead (at zero potential) conditions. The qualification focuses on installing, jointing, and terminating cables. There is a focus on national standards and safe working practices. Learners will be enabled to become valuable members of the workforce responsible for the installation and maintenance of the electricity supply network in South Africa. No registration is needed for a person to operate as an Electric Cable Jointer.

    The Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer encompasses a part qualification, the Occupational Certificate: Low Voltage Electric Cable Jointer. This part qualification entails a set of employable skills which will allow the learner direct access into employment for the termination and jointing of LV cables, a much-needed subset of skills in the industry to supply and maintain electrical infrastructure to South African citizens.
    Two typical target groups are identified for enrolling for cable jointing training, namely school leavers with Grade 10 or N3 as well as currently employed persons with workplace experience in cable jointing but without formal qualifications.

    Possible employment for the two voltage ranges includes:
  • Low Voltage: Entrepreneurs (Small business), Electrical Contractors, Local Government, Eskom and Transnet.
  • Medium Voltage: Electrical Contractors, Local Government, Eskom and Transnet. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 

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

    Knowledge Modules
  • 671302-001-00-KM-01, Fundamentals of Electricity Pertaining to Low Voltage (LV) Cable Jointing, Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-02, Low Voltage Cable Jointing Regulations and Legislation, Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-03, Low Voltage Cable Jointing Cables, Tools and Equipment, Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-04, Low Voltage Cable Testing, Installation, Jointing and Termination Methods, Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-05, Medium Voltage Cable Jointing, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-06, Regulations and Legislation Pertaining to Medium Voltage Cable Jointing and Termination, Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-07, Medium Voltage Cable Jointing Tools, Equipment and Consumables, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-KM-08, Medium Voltage Cable Testing, Installation, Jointing and Terminating, Level 4, 9 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 68

    Practical Skill Modules
  • 671302-001-00-PM-01, Perform Site Inspection and Preparation for Low Voltage Cable Jointing Ensuring Safety Compliance, Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-PM-02, Use, Lean and Store Tools and Equipment Used During Cable Jointing Activities, Level 3, 4 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-PM-03, Perform Testing Procedures During Low Voltage Cable Jointing Activities, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-PM-04, Terminate and Joint Low Voltage Cables, Level 3, 8 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-PM-05, Prepare for Medium Voltage Cable Jointing and Termination Operations, Level 4,
    2 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-PM-06, Test, Install, Joint and Terminate Medium Voltage Cables, Level 4, 18 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 37

    Work Experience Modules
  • 671302-001-00-WM-01, Site Preparation for Low Voltage Cable Jointing Activities, Level 3, 10 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-WM-02, Low Voltage Cables (Dead) Jointing and Termination, Level 4, 23 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-WM-03, Worksite Preparation for Medium Voltage Cable Jointing Activities. Level 3,
    12 Credits.
  • 671302-001-00-WM-04, Medium Voltage Cable Jointing and Termination, Level 4, 30 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 75 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Plan and prepare work site, equipment, tools, consumables, and materials for medium voltage cable laying, jointing and termination activities and operations.
    2. Understand and implement correct use of tools, materials, measuring and testing equipment and comply with the work permit system and ORHVS (operational regulations for medium voltage systems).
    3. Demonstrate the termination of electrical MV cables above 1000v up to and including 44kV onto medium voltage electrical equipment and apply the knowledge and skills in a variety of contexts.
    4. Apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts to joint electrical medium voltage cables from 1000v to and including 44kV.
    5. Demonstrate the testing of cables for continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, and moisture (PILC) prior to joining or terminating in a workshop situation.
    6. Understand and implement applicable legislation and regulations applicable to environment and workplace.
    7. Explain the application of electrical cable jointing theory and principles relevant to medium voltage cable jointing, termination, and testing.
    8. Apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts to terminate, joint and test electrical low voltage cables up to and including 1000v onto LV electrical equipment. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Plan and prepare work site, equipment, tools, consumables, and materials for medium voltage cable laying, jointing and termination activities and operations.
  • Read and correctly interpret a work order for the medium voltage cable termination or jointing task, schedule dates, times, and resources.
  • Perform the preparation of a worksite for medium voltage cable installation, jointing and terminating of cables in compliance with all health and safety and ORHVS regulations.
  • Select, obtain, and inspect relevant tools, gas equipment, equipment, and material for good working order prior to the task.
  • Inspect a cable jointing kit or termination kit in ensuring they are complete, that the expiry dates are valid, and components are applicable to the cable type and jointing or terminating method.
  • Obtain a permit, and check isolation and lockout systems ensuring they are in place.
  • Conduct a site inspection to identify and mitigate hazards and risks prior to starting the work.
  • Identify and inspect relevant medium voltage equipment onto which cable termination will be done.
  • Inspect the joint bay for compliance to safety requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Understand and implement correct use of tools, materials, measuring and testing equipment and comply with the work permit system and ORHVS (operational regulations for medium voltage systems).
  • Achieve and maintain correct use of approved tools, gas equipment, materials, measuring, and testing equipment is applied and compliance with health and safety and ORHVS regulations is achieved and maintained.
  • Select correct tools and testing equipment for the specific task and inspected for functionality.
  • Inspect hand tools, hydraulic tools, gas equipment, measuring equipment and electrical testing equipment for compliance with applicable regulations and work permit system.
  • Handle and use hand and hydraulic tools and electrical testing equipment in the correct manner whilst complying with safety requirements ensuring safety mechanisms are engaged and approved PPE are used.
  • Accurately perform calculations related to the termination or jointing task, cable type and electrical equipment.
  • Clean, transport, and store hand and hydraulic tools and electrical testing equipment in a safe manner and in compliance with requirements.
  • Always achieve and maintain compliance with the requirements of the ORHVS and permit system.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Demonstrate the termination of electrical MV cables above 1000v up to and including 44kV onto medium voltage electrical equipment and apply the knowledge and skills in a variety of contexts.
  • Test and terminate PILC/PECTC, XLPE cable and trailing (rubber insulated) cables by correct use of tools.
  • Perform terminations adhering to all health and safety and ORHVS regulations.
  • Identify correct cable and point of work prior to commencement of the task.
  • Identify relevant medium voltage equipment onto which cable termination will be done.
  • Ensure safe working environment by identifying and mitigating hazardous conditions.
  • Identify the cable type and select correct termination method for the cable type.
  • Conduct electrical cable terminating task according to job requirements correctly applying the applicable terminating procedure.
  • Apply correct safety practices and use of PPE while performing the task.
  • Apply identification information to the termination.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts to joint electrical medium voltage cables from 1000v to and including 44kV.
  • Join medium voltage cables above 1000v up to and including 44kv adhering to all policies and procedures and health and safety and ORHVS regulations.
  • Identify correct cable and point of work prior to commencement of the task.
  • Ensure safe working environment by identifying and mitigating hazardous conditions.
  • Identify Medium voltage electrical cable type and select and conduct correct jointing method for the cable type as per manufacturer specifications.
  • Conduct the joints task according to job requirements correctly applying the applicable jointing procedure.
  • Apply correct safety practices and use of PPE while performing the task.
  • Identification information is applied to the joints.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    ELO 5: Test cables for continuity, insulation resistance, polarity, and moisture (PILC) prior to joining or terminating in a workshop situation.
  • Use the correct tools and test instruments, perform continuity, polarity, moisture (PILC cable) testing to applicable cable to determine whether the cable is ready for jointing or terminating.
  • Identify the corrects cable for testing.
  • Ensure safe conditions for testing by identifying and mitigating hazardous conditions.
  • Select the corrects testing equipment for the test to be done.
  • Apply testing procedures using the correct electrical testing equipment and record results.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
    ELO 6: Understand and implement applicable legislation and regulations applicable to environment and workplace
  • Read and correctly interpret Regulations (ORHVS) applicable to MV termination and jointing operations, working conditions, work sites, safety equipment and safety procedures.
  • Understand and implement applicable legislation, health, and safety and ORHVS regulations applicable to environment, worksite, and workplace.
  • Restore worksite according to relevant legislation and regulation including environmental and workplace requirements.
  • Conduct waste disposal tasks in compliance with environmental regulations.
  • Sign off the permits and sign and return declaration of task completion to authorised person.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
    ELO 7: Explain the application of electrical cable jointing theory and principles relevant to medium voltage cable jointing, termination, and testing.
  • Understand explain electrical theory relevant to medium voltage cable jointing, termination and testing activities and operations.
  • Understand and explain principles relevant to medium voltage cable jointing, termination and testing activities and operations.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
    ELO 8: Apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts terminate, joint and test electrical low voltage cables up to and including 1000v onto LV electrical equipment.
  • Plan and prepare work site, equipment, tools, consumables, and materials for low voltage cable laying, jointing and termination activities and operations.
  • Understand and implement correct use of hand tools, hydraulic equipment, gas equipment, materials, measuring and testing equipment and comply with the work permit system and ORLVS (operational regulations for low voltage systems) (where applicable).
  • Terminate electrical low voltage cables up to and including 1000v onto LV electrical equipment and apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts.
  • Joint electrical low voltage cables up to and including 1000v and apply the knowledge and skills obtained in a variety of contexts.
  • Test low voltage cables for continuity and polarity, insulation resistance and voltage upon completion of joint.
  • Understand and implement legislation and regulations applicable to environment and workplace.
  • Explain the application of fundamentals of electricity and jointing principles relevant to LV cable jointing, termination, and testing.

    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 together with work experience leads to entrance in the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment
    The external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a combination of a written assessment and practical tasks conducted at QCTO accredited assessment centres. The practical assessment will be concluded at the assessment centre and assessed by an assessor registered with the AQP.

    A candidate who attempted the 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:
  • The learner is competent in at least 70% of the assessment tasks given during the assessment; and
  • 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 test tasks whichever comes first. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Occupational Certificate: Cable Jointer (Electric Cable Jointer) was compared with the Australian Certificate IV in ESI - Network Systems and the New Zealand National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Cable Jointer High Voltage), (Level 4) with optional strand in 33kV.

    Australia
    The Australian Certificate IV in ESI - Network Systems is presented by Aurecon Australasia Pty Ltd. The qualification provides for training and assessment in the methods of cable jointing construction and maintenance and is designed to give learners a sound working knowledge of a wide variety of jointing work and obtain knowledge of safe working practices and the practical skills and techniques to enable them to become cable jointers.

    Aurecon Australasia is mentioned as a registered training provider. The qualification covers work on network systems, high voltage jointing and supervision. This qualification assumes that competencies will be developed through an integrated combination of on- and off-the-job learning strategies. Neither credits nor duration is specified. A selection of units was used for the comparability study. These are:
  • Apply Occupational Health and Safety regulations, codes and practices in the workplace.
  • Fix and secure electrotechnology equipment.
  • Use drawings, diagrams, schedules, standards, codes and specifications.
  • Solve problems in electromagnetic devices and related circuits.
  • Solve problems in low voltage A.C. circuits.
  • Apply sustainable energy and environmental procedures.
  • Lay ESI electrical cables.
  • Install and maintain de-energised low voltage underground paper insulated cables.
  • Joint and maintain energised low voltage underground paper insulated cables.
  • Install and maintain de-energised low voltage underground polymeric cables.
  • Joint and maintain energised low voltage underground polymeric cables.
  • Test and verify distribution cable jointing installations.
  • Install and maintain low voltage underground services.
  • Install and maintain transmission overhead conductors and cables.
  • Install gas and oil filled specialised underground cables.
  • Maintain gas and oil filled specialised underground cables.
  • Install and maintain polymeric specialised underground cables.
  • Install and maintain gas and oil pressure systems for specialised underground cables.

    Similarities
    The Australian Certificate IV in ESI - Network Systems and the Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer are on the same level, and both include a work experience (on-the-job) component. Further similarities refer to the content of the units selected for the comparability study, which are listed above.

    Differences
    The Australian Certificate IV in ESI - Network Systems includes work on network systems, high voltage jointing and supervision, which is not the case with the Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer. The Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer entry requirement is NQF Level 2 with maths and science, while the Certificate IV in ESI - Network Systems specifies "No entry requirements".

    New Zealand
    The New Zealand National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Cable Jointer High Voltage), (Level 4) with optional strand in 33kV focus on providing the learners the knowledge, practical skills and experience to join insulated electric power cables installed in underground conduits and trenches, and to prepare cable terminations for connection to electrical equipment and overhead lines.

    This qualification is offered by Connexis Infrastructure Industry Training Organisation. Entry requirements are indicated as an Electrical Workers' Registration Board (EWRB) Trainee Limited Certificate when commencing programmes, for their training, assessment and experience to be accepted by the EWRB for registration as a cable jointer. The credit value of the qualification is 150 - 185 credits. Further entry conditions include the New Zealand Certificate in Electricity Supply (Introductory) (Level 2) or equivalent knowledge and skills. Learning outcomes are:
  • Apply knowledge of electrical theory to the construction and preparation of cables.
  • Apply codes, legislation and industry standards and procedures when performing the duties of a cable jointer undertaking work on power cables up to 22kV.
  • Apply measures to protect personnel, underground services, and electricity supply networks.
  • Undertake testing and commissioning procedures that facilitate the process of cable jointing work on power cables up to 22kV.
  • Apply codes, legislation and industry standards to the jointing and termination of live low voltage power cables.
  • Apply industry standards and procedures when performing the duties of a cable jointer undertaking work on power cables up to 33kV.

    Similarities
    The National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Cable Jointer High Voltage), (Level 4) with optional strand in 33kV and the Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer are on the same level and both include knowledge, practical skills and work experience components. Further similarities refer to the six outcomes listed above. Entry requirements for both qualifications are stated as Level 2.

    Differences
    The National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Cable Jointer High Voltage), (Level 4) limits training to 33kV, while the Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer include training up to and including 44kV. The National Certificate in Electricity Supply (Cable Jointer High Voltage), (Level 4) includes High Voltage training while the training of the Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer is limited to Low and Medium Voltage. Learners have to register with the Electrical Workers' Registration Board (EWRB) before being able to operate while no registration is needed in South Africa.

    Conclusion
    The Occupational Certificate: Electric Cable Jointer compares favourably with the two international qualifications. 

  • ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Horizontal Articulation:
    Further Education and Training Certificate: Construction: Electrical Installation; NQF Level 04.

    Vertical Articulation:
    Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician; NQF Level 05. 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of a statement of results and statement of work experience as well as proof of successful completion of the following subjects and modules or alternative programmes where applicable including Foundational Learning Competence.

    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
  • No fear of heights.
  • No colour blindness.
  • Medical fit.
  • No epilepsy.
  • Not claustrophobic (working in confined spaces).
  • Safe working at heights/depth (higher or deeper than 1.2 m as legislated) and confined spaces are regarded as a recruitment and employment requirement.

    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 are: Electric Cable Jointer: 671302-001-00-00.

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

    Acronyms
  • XLPE: Cross-linked Polyethylene.
  • PILC: Paper Insulated Lead Covered.
  • ORLVS: Operating Regulations for Low Voltage Systems.
  • ORHVS: Operating Regulations for High Voltage Systems.
  • SWA: Steel Wire Armoured.
  • PECTC: Impregnated Paper Insulation Lead Alloy E Sheath with PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) Bedding with Galvanised Double Steel Tape Armour & PVC Sheath/Serving.

    Assessment Quality Partner:
  • EWSETA.

    RELATED PART-QUALIFICATIONS
  • Occupational Certificate: Low Voltage Electric Cable Jointer Level 3.

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS 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.
     
    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.