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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

National Occupational Certificate: Civil Road Construction Constructor 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
126057  National Occupational Certificate: Civil Road Construction Constructor 
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  Civil Engineering Construction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  123  Not Applicable  NQF Level 04  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0840/26  2026-06-02  2031-06-02 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2032-06-02   2035-06-02  

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
65409  National Certificate: Building and Civil Construction  Level 3  NQF Level 03  140  Complete 
24133  National Certificate: Construction: Roadworks  Level 2  NQF Level 02  120  Complete 
24173  National Certificate: Construction: Roadworks  Level 3  NQF Level 03  155  Complete 
49016  National Certificate: Construction: Concreting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  152  Complete 
49410  National Certificate: Construction  Level 2  NQF Level 02  120  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Civil Road Construction Constructor.

A Civil Road Construction Constructor constructs and maintains earthworks, embankments, and earth retaining structures and pavement layers, including surfacing, and ancillary works for roads or runways and related stormwater drainage systems.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan, set out and prepare for road or runway construction.
  • Coordinate, construct and maintain stormwater drainage systems.
  • Coordinate, construct and maintain earthworks, pavement layers, road or runway and ancillary works.
  • Conduct road or runway signage operations and surfacing operations.

    Learners will benefit by being equipped with practical skills and technical knowledge required to participate effectively in the construction and maintenance of roads and associated infrastructure. They will receive hands-on training in essential areas such as road surfacing, drainage, earthworks, and safety standards. Learners gain competencies that are aligned with industry requirements, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to infrastructure development projects.

    A qualified learner will demonstrate the following key attributes:
  • Problem-solving.
  • Effective communication.
  • Accuracy.
  • Mathematical quantification.

    Rationale:
    The National Occupational Certificate for Civil Roads Construction Constructor at NQF Level 4 is a critical qualification for South Africa due to the country's ongoing infrastructure development needs. South Africa is continually expanding and maintaining its road and runway networks to support economic growth, enhance connectivity, and improve transportation efficiency. The qualification aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the civil roads construction sector, ensuring that there are adequately trained constructors capable of meeting the high standards required for such infrastructure projects.

    The role of a skilled Civil Roads Construction Constructor is pivotal in the development and maintenance of transportation infrastructure. These professionals are responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of earthworks, embankments, retaining structures, and pavement layers, including surfacing and ancillary works for roads or runways, and related stormwater drainage systems. Their expertise ensures that construction projects are completed efficiently, safely, and to the required standards, thereby enhancing the durability and reliability of the infrastructure.

    This qualification provides learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for constructing and maintaining earthworks, embankments, retaining structures, and pavement layers, including surfacing and ancillary works for roads or runways, and related stormwater drainage systems. It prepares individuals to effectively plan, execute, and manage construction projects, thereby contributing to the overall quality and durability of South Africa's transportation infrastructure.

    Currently, there are no similar qualifications or part-qualifications registered on the NQF.

    The qualification will have substantial benefits for the civil construction sector, society, and the economy. It will ensure a steady supply of skilled constructors who can undertake and manage road or runway construction projects effectively. This contributes to safer and more reliable transportation networks, which are crucial for economic activities and societal mobility. Improved infrastructure leads to better connectivity between urban and rural areas, facilitates trade, reduces transportation costs, and enhances overall economic competitiveness.

    The typical learners for this qualification are individuals who aspire to build a career in the civil construction industry, specifically in road or runway construction and maintenance. This includes young school leavers, current employees in the construction sector seeking formal qualifications, and individuals looking to upskill or reskill to improve their employability and career prospects in the infrastructure development field.

    Collaboration with relevant stakeholders:
    Various stakeholders within the civil engineering construction industries were involved during
    the development of this occupational qualification. These stakeholders included industry
    bodies, professional bodies, private and public training providers and government
    departments.

    List typical occupations in which the qualifying learner will operate:
  • Civil Road Construction Constructor. 

  • 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 qualification of learning if they do not meet the formal, minimum entry requirements for admission. RPL assessment provides an alternative access route into a qualification of learning.

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

    Upon successful completion of the EISA, RPL learners will be issued the QCTO certificate for the qualification. 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 3 qualification with Communication and Mathematical Literacy. 

  • RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

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

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 641403-001-00-KM-01, Asphalt Surfacing and Related Operations, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-02, Earthworks and Layer Works, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-03, Ancillary Road Works, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-04, Theories and Principles of Storm Water Drainage, NQF Level 4, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-05, Theories and Principles of Subsoil Drains and Service Ducts, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-06, Principles of Setting Out Work Areas, NQF Level 4, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-07, Basic Fundamentals of Concrete, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-08, Safety, Health and Environment Related Legislation, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-09, Theories and Principles of Supervision, NQF Level 4, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-10, Construction Planning and Administration, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-11, Construction Drawings and Specifications, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-12, Introduction to Construction Materials, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-13, Tools and Construction Plant, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-14, Workplace Relationships and Performance, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-15, Decision Making, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-16, Fundamentals of Labour-Intensive Construction (LIC) and Civil Works Concepts, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 28

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 641403-001-00-PM-01, Set out and Transfer Levels for Roads Construction, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-02, Plan, Prepare and Use Tools and Equipment for Roads Construction Work, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-03, Construct Kerbs, Channels and Kerb Inlets, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-04, Construct and Lay a Stormwater Pipe or Culvert, NQF Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-05, Construct a Manhole, an Inspection Chamber or a Junction Box, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-06, Mix Concrete, Test the Slump and Prepare Cube Moulds for the Strength Test, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-07, Install Subsoil Drain, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-08, Construct and Compact Pavement Layers, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-09, Perform Road or Runway Surfacing Operations, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-10, Prepare and Control Application Rate of Prime/Tack Coat, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-11, Construct Road or Runway, Ancillary Works, NQF Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-12, Coordinate, Construct and Maintain Road or Runway and Ancillary Road Marking Works and Signage, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-13, Conduct Road or Runway Signage Operations, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-14, Communicate with Colleagues and Stakeholders, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-15, Implement Labour Intensive Construction Systems and Techniques for Roads and Stormwater Drainage, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 51

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 641403-001-00-WM-01, Processes and Procedures for Setting Out, Planning and Preparing for Civil Roads Construction, NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-WM-02, Processes and Procedures for Laying, Repairing, And Maintaining Stormwater Pipe Systems and Associated Infrastructure, NQF Level 4, 17 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-WM-03, Processes and Procedures for Constructing Earthworks and Pavement Layers, NQF Level 4, 17 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-WM-04, Processes and Procedures for Road Marking Works, Signage and Surfacing Operations, NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 44 

  • EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge and theoretical concepts to plan, prepare the site and set out and transfer levels for road or runway infrastructure construction projects.
    2. Apply knowledge of stormwater drainage systems to lay and join pipes or culverts for road or runway infrastructure.
    3. Apply understanding of infrastructure systems to plan, construct, and maintain earthworks, pavement layers, and associated works.
    4. Apply knowledge of road or runway infrastructure to implement markings and conduct signage operations. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
    ELO 1: Apply knowledge and theoretical concepts to plan, prepare the site and set out and transfer levels for road or runway infrastructure construction projects.
  • Interpret and apply construction drawings and specifications in planning and setting out activities.
  • Plan and administer construction activities, adhering to the specified requirements and maintaining compliance with design and regulatory standards.
  • Set out and transfer levels at construction sites by applying relevant knowledge, concepts and principles.
  • Select and utilise construction materials and tools, adhering to safety standards and optimising their use for site preparation and setting out tasks.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Apply knowledge of stormwater drainage systems to lay and join pipes or culverts for road or runway infrastructure.
  • Apply and use theories and principles of stormwater drainage, pipes or culverts to plan and execute the laying and joining of stormwater pipes or culverts and establish processes and procedures to maintain these systems.
  • Construct and maintain ancillary road works through the construction of infrastructure such as manholes, chambers, or junction boxes, ensuring durability and compliance with specifications.
  • Install and maintain subsoil Drains and Service Ducts by applying theories, principles, and procedures for subsoil drainage systems.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Apply understanding of infrastructure systems to plan, construct, and maintain earthworks, pavement layers, and associated works.
  • Coordinate and execute activities for the mixing, testing, and preparation of concrete, including slump tests and cube moulds for strength testing, by adhering to legislative requirements.
  • Construct and compact pavement layers according to specified standards, ensuring proper preparation and control of prime/tack coat application.
  • Construct manholes, inspection chambers, or junction boxes in accordance with specified standards and procedures

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Apply knowledge of road or runway infrastructure to implement markings and conduct signage operations.
  • Conduct and maintain road or runway markings and signage, ensuring all procedures align with established standards and best practices.
  • Perform and maintain road or runway surfacing operations, ensuring quality and durability, while following established processes and procedures.
  • Construct kerbs, channels, and kerb inlets, ensuring all procedures align with established standards and best practices.
  • Use power tools and small plant equipment for various construction tasks.
  • Apply principles and theory of first aid and handling fires to execute construction tasks safely.

    Integrated Assessment
    Formative Assessments:
    Formative assessments are conducted throughout the training of learners. A range of formal, non-formal, and informal ongoing assessment activities is 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 weaknesses, 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, and interviews. Continuous feedback must be provided.

    Summative Assessments:
    Integrated assessment involves all the different types of assessment tasks required for a particular 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.

    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 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. 

  • INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to similar qualifications from Australia and Germany.

    Country: Australia
    Institution name: Civil Contractors Federation
    Qualification title: Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision
    Duration: One year full-time

    Entry requirements:
  • Currently working in civil construction.
  • Ability to perform physical work to a level as expected on Civil Construction worksites and in this qualification.
  • Have the required level of Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital.

    Purpose:
    The Certificate IV in Civil Construction focuses on equipping learners with supervisory skills in civil construction projects. This qualification includes both theoretical and practical components, and learners are assessed through coursework and on-site evaluations.

    Modules:
    Core Units:
  • Implement and Monitor Environmental Policies: Understanding environmental protection requirements and implementing policies in civil construction projects.
  • Apply Site Risk Management System: Identifying potential risks and implementing management strategies to mitigate them.
  • Manage Civil Works Construction: Supervising civil works, including earthworks, pavements, and other infrastructure projects.
  • Conduct Civil Construction Dozer Operations: Operating machinery specific to civil construction, such as dozers.
  • Supervise Road Construction: Overseeing the construction and maintenance of road infrastructure.
    Elective Units:
  • Implement Traffic Management Plan: Developing and implementing traffic management plans during construction.
  • Apply Safety Practices, Procedures, and Regulations: Ensuring all safety regulations and procedures are followed on-site.
  • Coordinate Maintenance Activities: Managing maintenance schedules and activities for civil construction projects.
  • Manage Project Quality: Ensuring that construction projects meet quality standards.

    Similarities:
  • The South African National Occupational Certificate is similar to the Australian Certificate IV in terms of its focus on practical skills and knowledge in civil construction.
  • Both qualifications cover essential areas such as environmental policies, risk management, and the supervision of construction projects.

    Differences:
  • The South African qualification differs in its specific focus on stormwater drainage systems and signage operations, which are not prominently covered in the Australian qualification.

    Country: Germany
    Institution name: Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Industrie- und Handelskammer)
    Qualification title: Civil engineering worker - specialising in road building (Tiefbaufacharbeiter - Schwerpunkt Straßenbau)
    Duration: Two years
    DQR/EQF: Level 3

    Purpose:
    This qualification is intended for individuals who work, or plan to work, in a construction context on a site. It provides recognition for essential competencies needed in roadworks construction. It is designed to be flexible and accessible, enabling learners to demonstrate their competency in safely undertaking practical construction work, specifically within roadworks.

    Qualification structure:
    Core Training Components:
  • Road Construction Technology: Techniques and methods for constructing and maintaining roads, including materials and machinery used.
  • Drainage Systems: Installing and maintaining drainage systems essential for road construction.
  • Earthworks and Pavement Construction: Practical training in earthworks and constructing different types of pavement layers.
  • Traffic Management and Safety: Ensuring safety and managing traffic during road construction projects.
  • Project Planning and Execution: Planning and executing road construction projects from start to finish.

    Elective Training Components:
  • Environmental Protection in Construction: Implementing environmental protection measures during construction.
  • Advanced Machinery Operation: Training on the operation of advanced machinery used in road construction.
  • Quality Control: Ensuring quality standards are met throughout the construction process.

    Similarities:
    The South African National Occupational Certificate shares similarities with the German Tiefbaufacharbeiter in terms of comprehensive training in road construction technology, drainage systems, and practical on-site training.

    Differences:
  • The South African qualification differs by having a shorter duration and a specific focus on the coordination and maintenance of road and runway signage operations, which is more specialised compared to the broader scope of the German qualification.
  • The German qualification is typically 2 years for the initial specialisation (Tiefbaufacharbeiter), with the option to specialise further in a 3rd year to become a Straßenbauer (Road Builder).

    Conclusion:
    In conclusion, the South African qualification compares well with the Australian standards in terms of practical skills and supervisory training. It also aligns with the German standards in terms of comprehensive training in road construction technology and practical on-site training. 

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

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Occupational Certificate: Borehole Pump Operator, NQF Level 4.
  • National Certificate: Vocational, NQF Level 4

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Landscape Designer, NQF Level 5.

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

  • MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for External Assessment:
    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 certifying 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

    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 is: Civil Road Construction Constructor, 641403-001-00-00.

    Encompassed Trade:
  • None.

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

  • 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.