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:

Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
122680	Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - CETA
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY			NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
QCTO - Quality Council for Trades and Occupations			OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework
QUALIFICATION TYPE	FIELD		SUBFIELD
Elementary Occupational Cert	Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction		Civil Engineering Construction
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	120	Not Applicable	NQF Level 02	Regular-ELOAC
REGISTRATION STATUS		SAQA DECISION NUMBER	REGISTRATION START DATE	REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered		EXCO 0426/24	2024-08-22	2029-08-22
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT		LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2030-08-22		2033-08-22

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 tangible benefits of completing the Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection are potentially numerous for the learners.

Firstly, it provides learners with industry-recognised qualification, which serves as a valuable credential in the job market. This qualification enhances their employability and increases their chances of securing entry-level positions or advancing in their current roles within the steel construction industry.

Secondly, the qualification will equip learners with the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to perform their job responsibilities effectively and efficiently. They will comprehensively understand steel component manufacturing processes, steel erection techniques, safety protocols, and quality control measures. This knowledge enables them to contribute immediately to their respective roles, enhancing their productivity and job performance.

Furthermore, this qualification will open opportunities for career advancement. Learners who completed this qualification can demonstrate their commitment to professional development and industry standards, making them eligible for promotion or higher-level positions within the steel construction industry. This will lead to increased job satisfaction and provide potential salary advancements and, more excellent job stability.

Moreover, completing the qualification fosters self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment among learners. They will gain a tangible measure of their skills and abilities, which will boost their confidence in pursuing further training and development opportunities in the field. This sense of accomplishment can positively impact their overall personal and professional growth.

The purpose of this qualification is to
prepare a learner to operate as a Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection. A Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection execute specific support duties assisting the manufacturing and erection teams to execute their duties, safely and efficiently during the manufacturing and erection processes and therefore contribute to the successful execution of steel construction projects. The worker assists in the fabrication, assembly, and erection of steel components in accordance with project specifications and industry standards.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Execute elementary support tasks within a steel component manufacturing facility.

Execute elementary support tasks on a steel erection site.

Operate basic equipment to assist in the manufacturing of specific steel components for use in the erection of steel structures.

Execute specific semi-skilled tasks during the erection of steel structures.

Lead small teams of semi-skilled workers within the manufacturing and erection processes.

A competent elementary support worker in manufacturing and steel construction will typically possess the following key attributes:

Technical orientation.

Good hand/eye coordination.

Attention to detail.

Strong compliance orientation.

Natural hazard perception.

Rationale:
The need for an Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection arises from the growing demand for skilled and qualified individuals to support the complex operations of steel construction projects. Steel construction is a specialized field requiring workers to understand safety protocols, construction techniques, material handling, and equipment operation. With this qualification, these support workers can demonstrate their competence, knowledge, and commitment to upholding industry standards and best practices. Moreover, this qualification will provide employers with the assurance that the workers possess the necessary skills to contribute effectively to the success of steel construction projects, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and adherence to safety regulations.

The current legacy qualification: SAQA ID 65709: National Certificate: Construction Steelwork: NQF Level 3 have reached the end of its registration date and industry stakeholder have requested the realignment of this qualification.

This qualification for elementary workers in steel component manufacturing and steel erection will bring several benefits to the construction sector, the community, and the South African economy. Firstly, this qualification will enhance the overall quality and safety standards within the construction sector. Workers with certified skills and knowledge will ensure that steel components are manufactured and erected following industry regulations and best practices, leading to improved structural integrity and reduced safety risks. This, in turn, instils confidence in clients and stakeholders, boosting the reputation and competitiveness of the construction sector.

Secondly, the community will benefit from this qualification through increased job opportunities and improved workforce competence. With qualified elementary workers, the community will have a skilled labour force capable of delivering high-quality steel construction projects. This leads to the creation of employment opportunities and economic growth within the local communities. The skills included in this qualification will also assist community members in building new housing units or improving existing housing, this could serve as a social benefit to all communities.

Lastly, the South African economy will experience positive impacts from this qualification. With a well-trained and certified workforce, the efficiency and productivity of steel component manufacturing and steel erection processes will increase. This translates into cost savings, reduced project timelines, and enhanced overall project delivery. These factors contribute to a more robust construction industry, attracting local and international investments and driving economic growth on a national scale.

The typical learners who will take up the Elementary Occupational Certificate for Steel component Manufacturing and steel erection are individuals seeking entry-level positions or career advancement opportunities in the steel construction industry. These learners may include high school graduates, trade school graduates, or individuals transitioning from other industries. Those who have a keen interest in steel component manufacturing and steel erection and are also motivated to acquire the necessary foundational skills and knowledge to excel in these roles. They may have some prior experience or exposure to the construction industry but require additional training and certification to enhance their employability and advance their careers, specifically in the field of steel construction.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
Learners may use the RPL process to gain access to training opportunities for a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme.

Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated, and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills programme. Such an assessment must ensure that the learner is able to display the equivalent level of competencies required for access, based on the NQF level descriptors.

For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a programme of learning, qualification, part-qualification, or skills programme through any means of formal, informal or non-formal learning and/or work experience, may be awarded credits towards relevant modules, and gaps identified for training, which is then concluded.

Entry Requirements:

Open access.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

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

Knowledge Modules:

831301-000-00-KM-01, Fundamentals of Steel Component Manufacturing and Assembly, NQF Level 1, 8 Credits.

831301-000-00-KM-02, Fundamentals of Steel erection on Construction Sites, NQF Level 1, 8 Credits.

831301-000-00-KM-03, Principles of operating in a Steel Component Manufacturing Facility, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.

831301-000-00-KM-04, Principles of Assembling and Erecting Steel Structures on a Construction Site, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.

831301-000-00-KM-05, Concepts and Principles of Team Leadership, NQF Level 2, 8 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 40

Practical Skill Modules:

831301-000-00-PM-01: Execute Basic Team Leader Tasks, NQF Level 2, 20 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 20

Work Experience Modules:

831301-000-00-WM-01, Organisational processes for providing Elementary Support to the Workers in a Steel Component Manufacturing Facility, NQF Level 1, 15 Credits.

831301-000-00-WM-02, Organisational processes for providing Elementary Support to the Workers on a Steel Erection Site, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.

831301-000-00-WM-03, Organisational processes for Manufacturing and Assembling Steel Construction Components, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.

831301-000-00-WM-04, Organisational Processes for Assembling and Erecting Steel Structures, NQF Level 2, 15 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 60

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks in a steel component manufacturing facility.
2. Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks on a steel construction site.
3. Operate basic equipment to support the manufacturing of steel construction components.
4. Work under close supervision to follow standard operating procedures and support the work of skilled staff on a steel construction site.
5. Apply first line supervision and leadership skills to lead small teams of elementary workers in steel component manufacturing facilities and on steel construction sites.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
ELO 1: Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks in a steel component manufacturing facility.

Safely and efficiently or handle raw materials, components, and finished products within the manufacturing facility. (Range: This includes loading and unloading materials, moving them between workstations, and organising them for storage or transportation.)

Monitor automated Material Handling Systems, and compile with all procedures and rules . (Range: These systems include conveyors, lifts, and transfer systems that automatically transport materials or components between different workstations, storage areas, or machines).

Aid skilled workers in the assembly and sub-assembly of components through the performance of elementary assembly tasks. (Range: Including fitting, fastening, or joining steel components together according to specifications and instructions).

Visually inspect finished components or sub-assemblies to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications. (Range: Identify and report defects or non-conformities).

Aid with maintaining accurate inventory records through the tracking of materials used, reporting shortages, and restocking supplies as needed. (Range: This may involve counting, labelling, and organising materials or components).

Adhere to workplace safety protocols (Including Housekeeping) and guidelines during the execution of all tasks. (Range: This includes following proper lifting techniques, using personal protective equipment (PPE) as required, and reporting any safety hazards or incidents to supervisors).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
ELO 2: Follow standard operating procedures to execute elementary tasks on a steel construction site.

Provide assistance in the movement, positioning, and transportation of steel components and construction materials on the erection site. (Range: This may involve loading and unloading materials, manual movement of materials and equipment, and ensuring materials are delivered to the appropriate locations using hand operated transportation devices).

Provide assistance in setting up, organising, and maintaining tools and equipment used by skilled workers. (Range: This includes ensuring tools are readily available, replacing worn-out or damaged tools, and keeping the work area clean and organised).

Assist with Worksite Preparation. (Range: This may involve tasks such as clearing debris, preparing foundations or footings, and ensuring a safe and accessible work area for skilled workers to perform their tasks).

Aid skilled workers in the assembly and installation of steel components on a construction site. (Range: This may involve tasks such as handing tools or materials to the skilled workers, holding components in place during installation, or providing assistance in aligning and fastening connections between steel components).

Provide safety support during the execution al steel construction tasks. (Range: This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and observing compliance with safe work practices).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
ELO 3: Operate basic equipment to support the manufacturing of steel construction components.

Safely operate automatic and semi-automatic equipment used in the manufacturing process . (Range: This includes understanding and following operating procedures, starting up and shutting down equipment, monitoring machine performance, and making necessary adjustments for optimal operation).

Closely monitor the production of high-quality steel components during the manufacturing process. (Range: This includes the inspecting of materials, dimensions, and surface finishes of the components to meet the specified standards and tolerances. Report all quality issues or deviations to supervisors or quality control personnel).

Provide routine frontline maintenance of equipment. (Range: This includes tasks on the equipment, such as cleaning, lubricating, and inspecting parts for wear and tear. Report any malfunctions or abnormalities to maintenance personnel for prompt repairs).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
ELO 4: Work under close supervision to follow standard operating procedures and support the work of skilled staff on a steel construction site.

Read and interpret basic site and construction plans. (Range: This includes interpreting basic dimensions, symbols, and specifications and the positioning of utilities and facilities on the construction site).

Aid in the handling, lifting, and positioning of steel components during the erection process. (Range: This includes using appropriate tools, equipment, and techniques to safely transport and manoeuvre heavy steel beams, columns, or other structural elements on a construction site).

Fix steel components together using bolts, nuts, rivets, or other basic connectors. (Range: This includes ensuring proper alignment and tightness of connections, following established procedures and torque specifications to maintain structural integrity).

Aid welders during the welding process. (Range: This includes preparing materials, cleaning surfaces, and positioning components for welding operations. They may also assist in the setup and maintenance of welding equipment, as well as the handling of welding consumables).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
ELO 5: Apply first line supervision and leadership skills to lead small teams of elementary workers in steel component manufacturing facilities and on steel construction sites.

Provide effective first line team leadership and supervision within a small team of workers. (Range: This may include assigning tasks, providing clear instructions, and overseeing work).

Delegate tasks to team members. (Range: This includes confirming the capability of team members and ensuring that responsibilities are distributed appropriately within legal parameter).

Provide on job training and coaching to new team members.

Provide oversite on the quality of task execution.

Provide on job training and motivation relating to risk mitigation and safety compliance. (Range: This includes ensure that team members are properly trained on safety measures, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and actively participate in hazard identification and risk mitigation).

Integrated Assessment:
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. Additional to the written assessment the learner must also submit a portfolio of evidence compiled of outcomes achieved in the workplace.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

Two international qualifications that can be used for the purpose of international comparability for the Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection are:
City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) - United Kingdom; and Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Certificate II in Engineering Pathways.

Both these qualifications are designed to provide learners with the essential skills and knowledge required to work in entry-level roles related to steel component manufacturing, assembly, and structural steelwork.

The City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) covers various aspects of steel construction and is targeted at individuals who wish to start a career in this field. The qualification includes elementary work tasks that are commonly performed on steel construction sites, such as carrying materials, assisting skilled workers, and maintaining a safe and organised work area.

The AQF Certificate II in Engineering pathways is a qualification offered in Australia, designed to provide foundational skills and knowledge in engineering-related industries, including steel component manufacturing and construction. This qualification covers a range of skills, including metal fabrication, erection, and assembly, and it is recognised for its relevance and practical approach to preparing individuals for entry-level roles in the steel industry.

Both of these international qualifications are deemed appropriate for the purpose of international comparability because they are both widely recognised within their respective countries and are held in high regard by employers, institutions, and industry professionals.

United Kingdom:
The City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) is designed to provide learners with foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for entry-level work in the field of structural steelwork within the construction industry. The overall purpose of this qualification is to equip individuals with the basic competencies required to carry out elementary tasks on steel construction sites, contributing to the successful completion of construction projects involving structural steel components.

In terms of level comparison to the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF), the City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) is roughly equivalent to a Level 2 qualification on the NQF.

The entry requirements for the City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) may vary depending on the institution offering the qualification. However, typically, learners do not need any formal qualifications to enrol in this qualification. It is designed as an entry-level qualification and is open to individuals with a basic educational background and a willingness to learn and work in the construction sector.

The overall duration of the qualification can vary depending on the mode of study and the institution's delivery approach. Generally, this qualification can be completed within a few months, making it a relatively short-term course.

Key modules covered in the City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) may include:

Introduction to Structural Steelwork: Covers the fundamental principles of structural steelwork, including the types of steel components used in construction.

Basic Construction Skills: Introduces learners to essential construction skills, such as handling tools and materials safely.

Two institutions that offer the City & Guilds Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills (Structural Steelwork) in the United Kingdom are:

Leeds College of Building - United Kingdom.

Glasgow Clyde College - United Kingdom.

Similarities
The UK Level 1 Certificate is similar to the Elementary Occupational certificate in relation to:

Both qualifications target entry level employees.

Nightery qualification has any formal entry requirements.

The two qualifications also share similar modules such as the introduction to the industry and the basic construction site skills requirements.

Differences
The two qualifications differ in the following aspects:

The South African Elementary Occupational Certificate is significantly longer in duration because it covers a much wider scope and includes some basic team leadership components.

The South African Elementary Occupational Certificate also distinguishes explicitly between the skills required in a manufacturing facility and on a construction site whereas the UK qualification limits itself to the construction components.

Australia:
The Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Certificate II in Engineering Pathways is designed to provide learners with the foundational skills and knowledge necessary to enter the engineering industry. The overall purpose of this qualification is to equip individuals with a broad understanding of engineering principles and practices, preparing them for further study or entry-level employment in the engineering sector. The qualification focuses on introducing learners to various engineering pathways, helping them explore different areas of engineering and make informed choices about their future career specialisation.

In terms of level comparison to the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF), the AQF Certificate II in Engineering Pathways is roughly equivalent to a Level 2 qualification on the NQF.

The entry requirements for the AQF Certificate II in Engineering Pathways may vary depending on the training provider or institution offering the qualification. Generally, there are no formal educational prerequisites for enrolling in this qualification. It is designed as an entry-level course, making it accessible to individuals with a basic educational background and a genuine interest in pursuing a career in engineering.

The overall duration of the AQF Certificate II in Engineering Pathways can vary based on the mode of study and the institution's delivery approach. Typically, this certificate can be completed within a few months to a year, depending on whether learners are studying full-time or part-time.

Key modules covered in the AQF Certificate II in Engineering Pathways may include:

Introduction to Engineering: Provides learners with an overview of the engineering industry, its different branches, and career opportunities within the field.

Engineering Communication: Focuses on developing essential communication skills required in engineering settings, such as technical writing and effective teamwork.

Two institutions in Australia that offer the AQF Certificate II in Engineering Pathways are:

TAFE Queensland - Australia.

Melbourne Polytechnic - Australia.

Similarities:
The AQF Level 2 Certificate is similar to the Elementary Occupational certificate in relation to:

Both qualifications target entry level employees.

Nightery qualification has any formal entry requirements.

The level of the qualifications is the same.

Differences:
The two qualifications differ in the following aspects:

The South African Elementary Occupational Certificate is longer in duration because it covers a much wider scope and also includes sone basic team leadership components.

The South African Intermediate Occupational Certificate also specifically distinguishes between the skills required in a manufacturing facility and on a construction site whereas the AQF qualification limits itself to the general engineering components.

Conclusion
The qualifications are all targeted towards the specific dynamics within the countries of origin however the Elementary Occupational Certificate: Support Worker Steel Component Fabrication and Erection compares favourably with the international qualifications in terms of overall focus on entry level occupations, the fact that there are no entry requirements and the overall level of the qualifications. The South African qualification has a broader scope and builds a basis for further career progression in the sense that it requires workplace exposure, and it assists learners to master some fundamental frontline leadership skills.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options:

Horizontal Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Construction Plant Operator, NQF Level 2.

National Certificate: Vocational: Civil Engineering and Building Construction, NQF Level 2.

Vertical Articulation:

Occupational Certificate: Railway Track Welder, NQF Level 3.

Diagonal Articulation:
> National Certificate: Vocational: Civil Engineering and Building Construction, NQF Level 3.

NOTES

Qualifying for External Assessment:
To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience.

Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
None.

Criteria for the accreditation of providers
Accreditation requirements, against which Skills Development Providers (SDP) and Assessment Centres, will be accredited, is found in the Curriculum Document, as listed below.

The curriculum title and code: Support Worker: Steel Component Fabrication and Erection: 831301-000-00-00.

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

Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA).

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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