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: 

National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
124405  National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - MQA 
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
National Occupational Cert  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  138  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0632/25  2025-06-03  2030-06-03 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2031-06-03   2034-06-03  

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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
94870  Occupational Certificate: Mining Technician (Mining Sampler: Hardrock)  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  168  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as Mine Sampler.

Mine Samplers oversee the collection of rock samples, process and capture sample analysis data for evaluating mineral resources; and complete administrative functions and duties; in accordance with organisational, statutory and regulatory requirements.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Oversee the collection of samples.
  • Capture sample analysis data and related information onto evaluation systems.
  • Take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.
  • Troubleshoot
  • Communicate effectively.

    The qualifying learner will be able to proficiently use sampling techniques to conduct sampling functions, including the collection, processing, and capturing of accurate sample data.

    The qualification is aimed at providing learners with opporEtunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader constituencies of the mine sampling, occupational health, safety and environmental community.

    Graduate attributes:
  • Honesty,
  • Integrity,
  • Punctuality,
  • Time management,
  • Self-motivated,
  • Responsibility,
  • Accountability,
  • Interpersonal relations,
  • Ethical behaviour,
  • Well organised,
  • Self-confidence and
  • Confidentiality.

    Rationale:
    In the mining industry, it is very important to obtain information on the ore that is mined. Samplers are responsible for taking samples for analysis on a regular basis.

    This qualification replaces the Occupational Certificate Mining Technician (Mining Sampler Hardrock), which expired on 2023 -03-30.

    The role of the Mine Sampler is to produce information on the ore that is mined. It is their responsibility to collect and examine samples of the ore regularly to determine its nature, quality, and quantity. The data from sampling is necessary to understand how mining activities and mine waste change the environment. Sampling is designed, carried out, and assembled into structured information by skilled professionals. Sampling results are interpreted into information that can be shared with all stakeholders at a mine site.

    The complexity of the work is increasing with the development of new technologies along with the increasing statutory requirements for sampling work, which have highlighted the need to enhance the dwindling skills of mine samplers. This qualification aims to equip potential learners with the required knowledge and skills to adapt to the evolving technological, statutory, and mandatory requirements.

    This qualification offers opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the broader domains of mine sampling, occupational health, safety, and environmental management.

    There are currently no other similar qualifications registered under the OQSF.

    The samples that the Mine sampler collets assist with decision making for further exploration, resource estimation, grade control or plant design. By obtaining the right samples and making sure they are properly prepared and accurately analysed are critical steps in determining whether an investment or project goes ahead.

    This qualification will enhance the mining sector and benefit society by minimising uncertainty in the data by equipping learners with the skills and technical competencies needed to conduct appropriate sampling, preparation and handling protocols to elevate work standards, comply with occupational health, safety, and environmental regulations and work safely and efficiently. This proficiency will not only boost productivity but also contribute to the nation's economy. A strengthened economy attracts both local and international investors, thereby further stimulating economic growth and development.

    Learners for this qualification will typically be Mine Sampling Observers. Mine Workers with appropriate experience seeking to advance their careers will also benefit from this qualification.

    The typical learning pathway would be Mine Technical Services Support Assistant: Sampling Operations at NQF Level 2, Mine Sampling Observer at NQF Level 3, Mine Sampling Officer at NQF Level 4, then Mine Section Valuator at NQF Level 6.

    This qualification will assist in the formalising of the requirements for this very important occupation. There will be opportunity for RPL for mine employees and this will allow new industry entrants to be fast tracked to a productive career.

    Diagonal articulation could not be established as there were no qualifications to articulate with, across Sub-Frameworks, at the time of this review.

    Occupation(s) and professions to related to this qualifications are:
    Stakeholders from various sectors including:
  • Workplace Practitioners
  • Assessors and moderators
  • Private Training Providers
  • Teaching and learning specialist
  • Curriculum Development Specialist
  • Other (The Minerals Council of South Africa).

    Typical occupation:
    Mine Sampler 
    		•

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

    Such an RPL assessment may be developed, moderated and conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider which offers that specific qualification/part qualification/skills qualification. 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.

    RPL for Exemption:
    For exemption from modules through RPL, learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification 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.

    RPL for Awarding Credits:
    Learners who have gained the stipulated competencies of the modules of a qualification of learning, qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification 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.

    RPL for access into the External Integrated Summative Assessment.
    A valid Statement of Results is required for admission to the EISA in which confirmation of achievement is provided that all internal assessment criteria for all modules in the related curriculum document have been achieved.

    Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued with the QCTO certificate for the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.


    Entry Requirements:
    Any mining related qualification at NQF Level 3. 

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 311701-002-01-KM-01, Mine Sampling Practices, NQF Level 4, 28 Credits
  • 311701-002-01-KM-02, Mining and Mineral Engineering Practice, NQF Level 4, 12 Credits

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 40

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 311701-002-01-PM-01, Safely Access Workings to Execute Sampling Tasks, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits
  • 311701-002-01-PM-02, Oversee the Taking of Samples, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits
  • 311701-002-01-PM-03, Capture, Plot and Transfer Rock Sample Data and Measurements on Relevant Media and Compile Communication Reports, NQF Level 4, 16 Credits
  • 311701-002-01-PM-04, Apply Statistics and Geostatistical Methods, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 48

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 311701-002-01-WM-01, Exposure to the Sampling Processes, NQF Level 4, 50 Credits

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 50 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply procedure and processes to coordinate activities related to the collection of samples in a mine.
    2. Apply knowledge and techniques to process and capture all collected sample data on the mine evaluation system.
    3. Apply knowledge and skills to take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.
    4. Coordinate troubleshooting activities.
    5. Facilitate communication process. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Apply procedure and processes to coordinate activities related to the collection of samples in a mine.
  • Apply fundamental knowledge and understanding of mine survey, sampling, mineral resource management, mining engineering, technical services practice, occupational health, safety, environmental, organisational, statutory, and regulatory requirements.
  • Explain the various methods of taking samples for different commodities, giving all the steps that must be taken and placing the steps in the appropriate sequence and places where samples must be taken within different mining environments on given mining maps and identify for plans making use of the appropriate coordinates and coordinate systems.
  • Identify the primary geological structures/features associated with hardrock mining from pictures, drawings and mine plans/maps.
  • Describe the following terms: a. Faults (normal, reverse, thrust and lateral); b. Folds (synclines and anticlines) c. Dykes and sills; d. Potholes and sinkholes; e. Joints, fissures, fractures; f. Bedding planes; g. Ground water; h. Entrapped gasses and fluids.
  • Capture raw data in the field books reflecting the pre- and post- sampling information relevant to the identified sampling points.
  • Determine and follow the areas to be sampled and required procedures to correctly determine and mark the areas to be sampled.
  • Follow the correct procedures to observe the sample chipping process and take corrective actions, when required.
  • Bag, label and record samples in the sample data field book.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Apply knowledge and techniques to process and capture all collected sample data on the mine evaluation system.
  • Consolidate and collate data relevant for compiling a sample record sheet onto the evaluation system.
  • Compile sample record sheet; calculate average values and widths.
  • Plot results and transfer onto the relevant media.
  • Compile a communication report.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Apply knowledge and skills to take and record required measurements of geological features and workplace dimensions in a mine.
  • Determine the location of the areas to be measured; collect information regarding the area to be measured; prepare information in the field book for the measuring exercise.
  • Install strike and dip tapes, making use of at least two fixed survey points/stations.
  • Create the shape (polygon) according to the field data.
  • Determine the appropriate areas and calculate the actual volumes of rock in the areas.
  • Plot tape measurements, offsets and features on the working plan/media.
  • Determine the true heights of workings, at regular intervals.
  • Read off and record right-angled ties (offsets) at regular intervals (operational standard), to capture the working face position and other relevant features in the working area. (The features will include the following: Face on reef, RIH/RIF, sweepings, support, ventilation, geological features and pillars).

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Coordinate troubleshooting activities.
  • Identify problems and establish root causes.
  • Determine the corrective and preventative actions.
  • Implement corrective actions, in accordance with requirements, to solve identified problems.
  • Recorded and report actions taken accordingly.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
    ELO 5: Facilitate communication process
  • Use oral and written communication channels to convey intended outcomes.
  • Communicate fluently and understandably, in accordance with requirements.
  • Communicate findings and outcomes effectively.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Formative Assessments conducted internally
    Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities are used to focus on teaching and learning outcomes to improve learner attainment.

    Formative assessments are conducted continuously by the facilitator to feed into further learning, to identify strengths and weakness, and to ensure the learner's ability to apply knowledge, skills and workplace experience gained.

    Formative Assessments are conducted by the accredited Skills Development Provider (SDP), and a variety of ongoing assessment methods may be used, for example, quizzes, assignments, tests, scenarios, role play, interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

    Integrated Summative Assessments conducted Internally
    Integrated Assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular qualification, part-qualification or occupational skills qualification, such as written assessment of theory and practical demonstration of competence. To achieve this, the Internal Assessment Criteria (IAC) for all modules as found in the QCTO curriculum document must be followed.

    An accredited SDP should implement a well-designed, formal, relevant, final internal Summative Assessment strategy for all modules to prepare learners for the EISA. These assessments evaluate learning achievements relating to the achievement of each module of the relevant components of the qualification, part-qualification or skills qualification.

    Internal Summative Assessments are developed, moderated and conducted by the SDP at the end of each module or after integration of relevant modules, e.g. applied knowledge tests, workplace tasks, practical demonstrations, simulated tasks/demonstrations, projects, case studies, etc.

    The results of these final formal summative assessments must be recorded. These results, which include the Statement of Work Experience results, where applicable, contribute to the Statement of Results (SoR) that is a requirement for admission to the EISA. An SoR, using the template provided by the Quality Partner, is issued by the accredited SDP for qualifications and part-qualifications. The SDP must produce a valid Statement of Results for each learner, indicating the final result and the date on which the competence in each module, of each component, was achieved. Learners are required to produce this SoR, together with their ID document or alternative ID document, at the point of the EISA.

    External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA):
    The Quality Partner is responsible for the management, conduct and implementation of the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA), in accordance with QCTO set standards. Competence in the EISA is a requirement for certificating a learner.

    For entrance into the EISA, the learner requires a valid Statement of Results issued by the accredited institution indicating: The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules OR The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge and Application Components.

    The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge, Practical and Work Experience modules
    OR
    The attainment of all modules for the Knowledge and Application Components. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    An extensive search was conducted, and no evidence of specific sampling qualifications offered in other countries was found.

    The search was conducted in countries with a formal Qualifications Framework, such as the United Kingdom (NVQ and SVQ), Australia and New Zealand and SADC countries, which are in geographical proximity to South Africa.

    In SADC countries, no sampling related qualifications were found. Consultation with experienced mining engineers who have worked in Africa (SADC countries) have confirmed that competencies relating to Technical Support (at the level of the proposed qualification) would be acquired informally in the workplace. This would typically occur when workers assist technical or professional people performing these tasks.

    In other countries, it was found that sampling competencies were covered at a limited scale as elective units of learning in technical mining related qualifications.

    Australia
    Certificate III in Underground Metalliferous Mining offered by the Australian Institute of Mining Pty Ltd and MyneSight Pty Ltd, among others.

    This qualification is aimed at learners who carry out a variety of tasks involving a broad range of skilled applications in a different mining context. Qualified learners use their own discretion and judgement in selecting equipment, services, or contingency measures. Entry into the qualification is open.

    The qualification has core and elective units for 5 areas of specialisation which are:
  • Charge Up.
  • Development.
  • Production.
  • Services and Infrastructure.
  • General.

    To be awarded the qualification, the learner must satisfy the packaging rules for a specific area of specialisation.

    Core units:
  • Communicate workplace information.
  • Identify and assess environmental and heritage concerns.
  • Assess ground conditions.
  • Maintain and monitor site quality standards.
  • Apply risk management processes.
  • Work safely and follow WHS policies and procedures.

    Sampling competencies were found to be covered in the general stream F. However, to be awarded the qualification, learners must choose 4 elective units from general stream E and not more than 4 from general stream F.

    Elective units
    Group E (General 1)
  • Coordinate business operational plans.
  • Run on-site operations.
  • Manage non-routine and complex technical situations.
  • Conduct underground development drilling.
  • Conduct long hole drilling.
  • Conduct underground development shotfiring.
  • Conduct underground production shotfiring.
  • Conduct secondary blasting.
  • Control and monitor automated plant/machinery.
  • Conduct wheel grader operations in underground mines.
  • Conduct underground load, haul and dump truck operations.
  • Conduct raise boring.
  • Isolate and access plant.
  • Service and maintain conveyors, feeders and hoppers.
  • Service and maintain crushers.
  • Conduct stockpile reclaiming operations.
  • Conduct hand held mining.
  • Construct and maintain underground roads.
  • Install and remove a secondary fan.
  • Conduct mechanical scaling.
  • Maintain underground stockpiles.
  • Respond to a workforce incident.
  • Operate manual winder.
  • Conduct cage operations.
  • Operate winder for shaft sinking.
  • Recover underground equipment.
  • Conduct tele-remote operations.
  • Conduct mechanical underground ground support drilling and installation.
  • Operate a mine service vehicle.
  • Conduct safety and health investigations.

    Group F (General 2)
  • Promote innovation in team environments.
  • Use inclusive work practices.
  • Work in accordance with an issued permit.
  • Issue work permits.
  • Conduct hazard analysis.
  • Monitor site production activities.
  • Support shotfiring operations.
  • Store, handle and transport explosives.
  • Rehabilitate small mine site.
  • Escape from hazardous situations unaided.
  • Provide aided rescue to endangered personnel.
  • Respond to local emergencies and incidents.
  • Conduct slewing crane operations.
  • Conduct telescopic materials handler operations.
  • Conduct crane operations underground.
  • Conduct operations with integrated tool carrier.
  • Conduct skid steer loader operations using attachments.
  • Conduct skid steer loader operations without attachments.
  • Respond to site-based spills.
  • Take environmental samples and measurements.
  • Apply shotcrete underground.
  • Licence to operate a slewing mobile crane (up to 20 tonnes.

    Similarities:
    All core units reflected in this qualification are covered in the National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler. Elective units such as coordinate business operational plans, from general stream E and work in accordance with an issued permit, conduct hazard analysis and take environmental samples and measurements, from general stream F are covered in the South African qualification.

    Differences:
    Differences are found to be with the composition, focus, and entry into the qualification.

    The South African qualification comprises knowledge modules, practical skills modules and work experience modules which are all compulsory. On the other hand, the Australian qualification has core units as well as elective units which allow learners to pursue a career towards a specific area of specialisation.

    The focus on the South African occupational qualification is on producing an all-rounded qualified Sampler, i.e. occupational based, whilst the Australian qualification is generic in nature.

    Entry into the National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler qualification is an NQF Level 3 mining related qualification, whilst with the Australian qualification, there is an open access into the qualification.

    Comparison with credits was not possible as information relating to credits assigned to units of learning comprising the Australian qualification was not available.

    Slovenia
    The search in other countries revealed that sampling competencies were rather implied. For the purpose of this comparison, an Environmental Technician qualification, offered by `kofja Loka School Centre, Slovenia was found to have covered competencies that are somewhat covered in the National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sample.

    Upon completion of this qualification, learners will be able to:
  • Use specialist literature, technical and technological documentation, and technical regulations, standards, and legislation governing environmental protection,
  • Use modern ICT to find, evaluate, save, process and use information,
  • prepare documentation for the acquisition of environmental and other permits; use project documentation and technical documentation,
  • Manage environmental protection technologies,
  • Carry out simple analyses of samples of various materials, water, and soil,
  • Plan and organise the work of a team and keep various records. (elective)
  • Plan, organise and manage parts of landfills and handle hazardous waste correctly,
  • Implement basic measurements in the field of water management and monitor and ensure parameters in water supply systems,
  • Carry out basic laboratory tests in the treatment and discharge of wastewater and monitor and ensure parameters in the process of waste water treatment,
  • Collect data and prepare background documentation for spatial planning and town planning, industrial infrastructure, and remediation of the impacts of mining activity,
  • Take soil samples for the needs of laboratory analysis and use geographic information systems,
  • Keep records of waste, sources of pollution, and energy consumption and keep a treatment plant operating log,
  • Carry out measurements and monitor air pollution and keep records of the operation and maintenance of combustion plants and flue ducts.

    Entry into the qualification could not be established.

    Similarities
    Although limited, competencies listed below, are covered in the South African National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler qualification, within the mining context.
  • Use specialist literature, technical and technological documentation and technical regulations, standards and legislation governing environmental protection,
  • Use modern ICT to find, evaluate, save, process and use information,
  • Prepare documentation for the acquisition of environmental and other permits; use project documentation and technical documentation,
  • Manage environmental protection technologies,
  • Carry out simple analyses of samples of various materials, water and soil,
  • Plan and organise the work of a team and keep various records,

    Differences
    Differences are with area of practice, scope of work, and composition.

    Learners who qualify against the National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler will operate within the mining industry as Mine Samplers whilst learners who qualify against the European Environmental Technician qualification will operate as Environmental Technicians.

    The National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler comprises knowledge modules, practical skills modules and work experience modules whilst the Environmental Technician qualification has core and electives units of learning.

    Conclusion
    The international comparability assessment has revealed that the National Occupational Certificate: Mine Sampler is designed specifically for the South African context. As a result, it does not closely align with qualifications offered in other countries.

    Despite the lack of directly comparable qualifications internationally, the qualification is directly occupationally based and will meet a specific need in the industry and is therefore deemed a valuable and relevant qualification. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Occupational Certificate: Mine Shift Overseer, NQF Level 4.
  • National Certificate: Vocational, NQF Level 4.

    Vertical Articulation:
    Higher Occupational Certificate Mine Overseer, NQF Level 5.

    Diagonal Articulation:
    National Certificate: Vocational, NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements:
    Physical and medical requirements for working in an underground mine must be met.

    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 are: Mine Sampler: 311702-002-01-00.

    Encompassed Trade:
  • None

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
    Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced 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.