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: Plumber

SAQA QUAL ID	QUALIFICATION TITLE
124445	National Occupational Certificate: Plumber
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
National Occupational Cert	Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction		Building Construction
ABET BAND	MINIMUM CREDITS	PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL	NQF LEVEL	QUAL CLASS
Undefined	395	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 does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification.

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Plumber.

A plumber installs, maintains, tests, and repairs hot and cold-water supply systems, drainage, sewerage, and rainwater systems.

A qualified learner will be able to:

Install, maintain and test, and repair above ground soil waste and vent systems and sanitary ware appliances.

Install, maintain and test, below-ground drainage systems and performing basic building work.

Install, maintain and test, cold water systems and hot water systems.

Install, maintain and test, rainwater systems.

A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes:

Methodologically and procedurally oriented.

Problem-solving.

Analytical.

Professionalism.

Rationale:
The need for this qualification arises in response to a growing demand for skilled professionals in the plumbing industry. As urbanisation continues to expand globally, the construction and maintenance of residential, commercial, and industrial infrastructure are crucial for economic growth and societal well-being. Plumbers play a vital role in ensuring the proper functioning of water supply systems, sanitation facilities, heating, and cooling systems, among other essential services. With rapid urban development and the construction of new buildings, there is a heightened demand for qualified plumbers who can install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems efficiently and in compliance with industry standards and regulations. The plumbing industry is evolving with advancements in technology, such as smart water meters, water-saving fixtures, and energy-efficient heating systems. Plumbers need updated skills and knowledge to work with these new technologies effectively. There are stringent regulatory requirements and safety standards in place for plumbing work to ensure public health and safety. Qualified plumbers are essential for meeting these compliance standards and carrying out work that meets legal and ethical obligations. There is a recognised shortage of skilled plumbers in many regions, leading to challenges in meeting the demand for plumbing services. This qualification aims to address the skills gap by producing competent and certified plumbers.

The plumbing sector benefits from a skilled workforce that can handle diverse plumbing tasks, from installation to maintenance and repairs. This leads to improved service quality and customer satisfaction. Access to qualified plumbers ensures that communities have reliable access to safe and hygienic water supply systems, sanitation facilities, and functional plumbing infrastructure, promoting public health and well-being.

A competent plumbing workforce contributes to economic growth by supporting construction projects, property maintenance services, and infrastructure development. It also creates employment opportunities and stimulates entrepreneurship in the plumbing industry. Trained plumbers can implement eco-friendly practices, such as water recycling, energy-efficient system installations, and leak detection technologies, contributing to environmental sustainability and resource conservation.

Individuals interested in pursuing a career as professional plumbers include:

Apprentices or trainees under plumbing apprenticeship programs.

Experienced plumbers seeking formal recognition and certification of their skills.

Employees in plumbing-related roles within construction, maintenance, or building services companies.

Learners are expected to demonstrate proficiency in practical plumbing tasks, theoretical knowledge of plumbing principles and regulations, and essential skills in communication, problem-solving, and safety practices.

Typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate are Plumber, Plumbing Contractor, Maintenance Technician, Pipefitter, Drainage Technician, Water Systems Installer and Plumbing Supervisor.

This qualification was developed in collaboration with the Plumbing Industry Registration Board (PIRB). Upon successful completion, learners may operate as a Plumber.

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

RPL for Access to Training/Exemption:
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.

RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA)

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.

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 programme. Quality Partners are responsible for ensuring the RPL mechanism and process for qualifications and part-qualification is approved by the QCTO.

Entry Requirements:
An NQF Level 1 qualification with Mathematical Literacy and Communication.

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING?

QUALIFICATION RULES

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

Knowledge Modules:

642601-000-01-KM-01: Health, Safety, Quality and Legislation, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-02: Tools, Equipment, Components and Site Practice, NQF Level 2, 3 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-03: Analytical Thinking, Innovation and Complex Problem Solving, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-04: Workplace Relationships and Performance, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-05: Decision Making, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-06: Workplace Fundamentals and Workplace Safety, NQF Level 4, 6 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-07: Drawings and Applied Sciences, NQF Level 4, 7 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-08: Theory of Water and Drainage, NQF Level 4, 8 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-09: Above and Below Ground Drainage Systems, NQF Level 4, 43 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-10: Sanitary Ware, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-11: Hot and Cold-Water Systems, NQF Level 4, 18 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-12: Maintenance and Repair Theory for Plumbing Systems, NQF Level 4, 9 Credits.

642601-000-01-KM-13: Sheet Metal and Pipework, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.

Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 121

Practical Skill Modules

642601-000-01-PM-01: Care for, Use, and Store Trade-related Tools and Equipment, NQF Level 2, 10 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-02: Prepare, Cut and Assemble Basic Sheet Metal and Pipe Work, NQF Level 3, 4 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-03: Install and Test Above Ground Soil Waste and Vent Systems and Sanitary Ware Appliances, NQF Level 4, 20 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-04: Maintain Above-Ground Soil Waste and Vent Systems and Sanitary Ware Appliances, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-05: Install and Test Below Ground Drainage Systems, NQF Level 4, 25 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-06: Maintain Below-Ground Drainage Systems, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-07: Install and Test Cold Water and Hot Water Systems, NQF Level 4, 25 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-08: Maintain Cold Water and Hot Water Systems, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-09: Install and Test Rainwater Systems, NQF Level 4, 20 Credits.

642601-000-01-PM-10: Maintain Rainwater Systems, NQF Level 4, 10 Credits.

Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 144

Work Experience Modules

642601-000-01-WM-01: Processes and Procedures for Installation, Testing and Maintenance of Above- Ground Soil Waste and Vent Systems and Sanitary Ware Appliances, NQF Level 4, 30 Credits.

642601-000-01-WM-02: Processes and Procedures for Installation, Testing and Maintenance of Below-Ground Drainage Systems and Performing Basic Building Work, NQF Level 4, 35 Credits.

642601-000-01-WM-03: Procedures and Processes for Installation, Testing and Maintenance of Cold Water and Hot Water Systems, NQF Level 4, 35 Credits.

642601-000-01-WM-04: Procedures and Processes for Installation, Testing and Maintenance of Rainwater Systems, NQF Level 4, 30 Credits.

Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 130

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES

1. Install, test and maintain, above-ground soil, waste, and vent systems, as well as sanitary ware devices, by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.
2. Install, test and maintain, below-ground drainage systems while conducting fundamental construction tasks, by modifying and employing standard solutions.
3. Install, test and maintain, cold water systems and hot water systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.
4. Prepare for installation, testing and maintenance of rainwater systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.

ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
ELO 1: Install, test and maintain, above-ground soil, waste, and vent systems, as well as sanitary ware devices, by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.

Conduct assessment and planning activities including site and risk assessments to ensure suitability and safety, along with the preparation of comprehensive quotes based on these assessments.

Undertake selection, installation, and compliance activities that focuses on choosing the right above-ground drainage systems and products, performing basic sheet metal and pipe work, installing them according to plumbing layouts and SANS codes, and ensuring all work complies with OHSA and SHEQ requirements.

Perform maintenance and repair activities including the cleaning of blockages, repairing pipes, creating branch connections, and the overall maintenance and repair of systems to ensure functionality, supported by demonstrated knowledge in installing, maintaining, testing, and repairing systems and appliances.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
ELO 2: Install, test and maintain, below-ground drainage systems while conducting fundamental construction tasks, by modifying and employing standard solutions.

Perform preparation and measurement activities including calculating discharge volumes, sizing of pipes, determining gradients, and measuring gradients and fall with appropriate tools and techniques.

Undertake excavation and installation activities including soil testing, safe excavation practices, and the stabilisation of excavations, along with the sizing, cutting, joining, and laying of pipes and fittings in accordance with health and safety standards.

Implement testing and compliance activities including installing bends, junctions, access points according to the drain line, conducting air and water tests on below-ground drains for optimal functionality, and demonstrating knowledge in installing, maintaining, testing, and repairing below-ground drainage systems.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
ELO 3: Install, test and maintain, cold water systems and hot water systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures and strategies.

Conduct material selection and preparation activities including identification, selection, handling, transportation, and storage of hot and cold-water materials, pipes, and equipment according to job requirements and instructions to prevent damage.

Conduct installation and compliance activities including checking site against working drawings for positioning of pipes and equipment, preparing access equipment for safe working practices, soldering copper tubes, joining HDPE and GMS pipes, and using compression and push-fit fittings in accordance with SANS Codes and SHEQ requirements. Laying pressure water pipes appropriately and ensuring electrical safety in measurements and installations.

Conduct testing and maintenance including performing electrical calculations for current flow, electric potential, and resistance. Installing thermal lagging and insulation with proper electrical safety measures and demonstrating knowledge to install, maintain, test, and repair cold and hot water systems effectively.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
ELO 4: Prepare for installation, testing and maintenance of rainwater systems by utilising plumbing practices, procedures, and strategies.

Perform installation and gradient management activities including positioning of gutter brackets and downpipe holder bats to ensure gutters are straight, achieve the required positive gradient, are well-supported, and effectively collect rainwater from the roof.

Implement system integrity and compliance activities including installation of rainwater gutters and downpipes according to manufacturer's specifications, ensuring effective rainwater collection and diversion away from the building, alongside regular checks for obstructions and leaks to maintain system integrity.

Implement environmental considerations by the utilisation of appropriate fittings and jointing materials for connections, environmentally responsible disposal of off-cuts and packaging materials following SHEQ requirements, and demonstration of knowledge in the installation, maintenance and testing of rainwater systems.

Integrated Assessment
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 programme, 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 programme.

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) - a national assessment
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.

INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY

The National Occupational Certificate Plumber, NQF Level 4 from South Africa, is compared internationally with similar qualifications from Australia and the United Kingdom (UK), chosen for their rigorous plumbing training qualifications and industry relevance.

Australia
Qualification: Certificate III in Plumbing (offered by TAFE institutes).
Entry Requirements: Generally, an Australian Year 10 education or equivalent is required, emphasising Mathematics and Science subjects.
Enrolment in an apprenticeship programme, which means the individual must be employed as an apprentice plumber to undertake the course.
Duration: 4 years, with apprenticeship training and theoretical study.
Course Content, Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies:
Competencies: Develop skills in diagnosing and rectifying faults in plumbing systems, sustainable plumbing practices, and managing plumbing projects.

Core Units:

Installing and commissioning water heating systems.

Sanitary fixtures.

Water service.

Drainage systems.

Learners learn about reading and interpreting plans and specifications, applying basic sheet metal practices, welding for plumbing applications, and understanding building codes and standards related to plumbing work.

Elective Units:
Specialisations such as gas fitting, roofing (stormwater management), and mechanical services, which include installing air conditioning and ventilation systems, and provide advanced skills.

Similarities:

Both the Australian qualification and the South African qualification, offer comprehensive plumbing training. Each qualification covers a broad range of plumbing skills, including water supply, drainage, gas fitting, and sanitary systems.

Both qualifications integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring that learners gain hands-on experience in various plumbing tasks. This blend of theory and practice prepares learners for the demands of the plumbing profession in their respective countries.

Differences:

The Australian qualification differs from the South African qualification primarily in duration. The Australian qualification typically requires 4 years to complete whereas the South African qualification being slightly shorter in terms of duration.

Additionally, the Australian qualification offers a range of elective units allowing for specialisation in areas such as mechanical services and environmental plumbing which are not included in the South African qualification.

United Kingdom (UK)
City & Guilds and other colleges offer the Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating. There are no formal academic prerequisites for entry into this qualification, but learners often need GCSEs (General Certificate of Secondary Education) in English and Mathematics at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent. Some colleges and training providers may require a basic skills assessment or an interest in plumbing demonstrated through work experience or an introductory qualification.

Duration: Typically, 2 years, with a combination of classroom learning and practical workshops.
Course Content, Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies:

Core Units

Safety in the plumbing industry.

Installation and maintenance of plumbing systems including.

Hot and cold-water systems.

Central heating systems.

Drainage systems, and the principles of electrical work related to plumbing.

Elective Units: Options may include environmental technologies, bathroom planning and installation, and advanced pipe skills.

Competencies: Focus on practical skills in plumbing, understanding of plumbing theory, customer service in the plumbing sector, and basic business skills for self-employment in plumbing.

Similarities

The United Kingdom qualification shares some common ground with the South African qualification, particularly in providing foundational plumbing skills.

Both qualifications cover essential aspects of plumbing and heating systems, including installation, maintenance, and compliance with health and safety standards. They aim to equip learners with the necessary skills to commence a career in plumbing, focusing on practical skills development alongside theoretical learning.

Differences

The UK qualification is more basic in nature compared to the South African qualification, which is more advanced and comprehensive.

The UK qualification is typically completed in 2 years, indicating a shorter and possibly less extensive training programme than the South African counterpart. Moreover, the Level 2 Diploma may not cover as wide a range of plumbing skills and specialties as the South African qualification, focusing more on entry-level skills and basic competencies in plumbing and heating.

Conclusion
The National Occupational Certificate: Plumber, NQF Level 4, encapsulates a comprehensive blend of theory and practical skills in plumbing. It aligns closely with the Australian qualification in terms of depth and breadth of plumbing practices, encompassing both standard and advanced plumbing techniques. In contrast, the UK qualification provides a solid foundation in plumbing and heating but is more introductory compared to the South African qualification.

ARTICULATION OPTIONS

This qualification provides opportunities for the following articulation options:

Horizontal Articulation:

National Occupational Certificate: Plasterer, NQF Level 4.

National Certificate: Vocational, Level 4, NQF Level 4.

Vertical Articulation:

Higher Occupational Certificate: Organisation and Methods Analyst (Work Study Officer), NQF Level 5.

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

NOTES

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 are: Plumber, 642601-000-01-00.

Encompassed Trade:
Plumber.

Assessment Quality Partner (AQP)
National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB).

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.

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