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: Civil Structures Construction Constructor 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
126077  National Occupational Certificate: Civil Structures 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  126  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 Structures Construction Constructor.

A Civil Structures Construction Constructor sets out, assembles, and dismantles false work, fixes, and places steel reinforcing, as well as places, compacts, and finishes concrete for civil engineering and building structures.


A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Plan, set out and prepare for civil structures construction work.
  • Assemble, place and fix steel reinforcement.
  • Erect and strip different types of falsework for different applications.
  • Mix, place, compact and finish concrete.

    Learners will benefit by being equipped with practical skills and technical knowledge required to participate effectively in the construction and maintenance of civil structural works. They will receive hands-on training in essential areas such as formwork, reinforcement, concrete placement, and structural safety standards. Learners gain competencies that are aligned with industry requirements, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the development of buildings, bridges, retaining walls, and other critical structural components of infrastructure projects.

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

    Rationale:
    The Civil Structures Construction Constructor qualification is critically needed in South Africa to support the growing demands of the construction industry. The role of a skilled Civil Structures Construction Constructor is vital for the successful completion of infrastructure projects. These professionals are responsible for setting out, assembling, and dismantling falsework; fixing and placing steel reinforcement; and placing, compacting, and finishing concrete for civil engineering and building structures. Their expertise ensures that construction projects are completed efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards.

    Through this qualification, qualifying learners will develop a range of essential skills. These include the ability to interpret construction plans and specifications, prepare materials and tools, assemble and fix steel reinforcement, and construct reinforced concrete structures. Learners will also gain proficiency in erecting and stripping various types of falsework and mastering the techniques for mixing, placing, compacting, and finishing concrete. Additionally, they will develop critical problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

    The construction industry in South Africa faces a significant skills shortage, particularly in civil structures. With the country's ongoing infrastructure development and the need to maintain and upgrade existing structures, there is an urgent demand for skilled professionals who can meet these challenges. This qualification addresses this critical need by providing standardised, high-quality training that prepares individuals for the complexities and demands of the construction industry. By ensuring a steady supply of competent and qualified Civil Structures Construction Constructors, this qualification supports the national goals of job creation, economic growth, and sustainable development, ultimately contributing to the overall advancement of South Africa's infrastructure.

    The qualification will significantly benefit the construction sector by producing highly skilled constructors capable of working on a variety of civil engineering and building projects. For society, it promises safer and more durable infrastructure, contributing to improved quality of life. Economically, it fosters job creation and enhances the productivity of the construction industry, which is a vital component of the national economy. Additionally, it will help reduce the skills gap in the industry, leading to more efficient project completion and higher standards of construction.

    The typical learners for this qualification are individuals who are either entering the construction industry or looking to formalize and enhance their skills in civil structures construction. This includes school leavers, current construction workers seeking certification, and individuals aiming to advance their careers in construction management or related fields.
    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. 
    		•

    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 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.

    RPL for Exemption:
    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 or 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.

    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 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:
  • 641403-003-00-KM-01, Basic principles of Scaffolding for Civil Structures Construction, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-02, Principles of the Erection, Modification and Dismantling of Free-Standing Static Tower and Mobile Tower Scaffolds, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-03, Principles of Inspection of Free-Standing Static Tower and Mobile Tower Scaffolds, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-002-00-KM-04, Basic Supervisory and Communication Principles, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-05, Principles of Scaffold Supervision, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-06, Basic Fundamentals of Concrete, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-07, Advanced Concrete, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-08, Falsework, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-09, Principles of the Installation, Modification and Dismantling of Class A Falsework, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-10, Principles of Inspection of Class A Falsework, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-KM-11, Steel Fixing, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-12, Principles of Setting Out Work Areas, NQF Level 4, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-13, Safety, Health and Environment Related Legislation, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-14, Construction Planning and Administration, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-15, Construction Drawings and Specifications, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-16, Introduction to Construction Materials, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-17, Tools and Construction Plant, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-18, Workplace Relationships and Performance, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-19, Decision Making, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-001-00-KM-20, Fundamentals of Labour-Intensive Construction (LIC) and Civil Works Concepts, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 40

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 641403-003-00-PM-01, Set Out and Transfer Levels for Structures Construction, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-02, Plan, Prepare and Use Tools and Equipment for Structures Construction Work, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-03, Erect, Modify, and Dismantle Free-Standing Static Tower and Mobile Tower Scaffolds, NQF Level 3, 1 Credit.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-04, Inspect and Complete Documents for Free-Standing Static Tower and Mobile Tower Scaffolds, NQF Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-05, Identify, Select and Assemble Reinforcing and Tie in Position, NQF Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-06, Erect and Strip Different Types of Formworks, NQF Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-07, Install, Modify and Dismantle Class A Falsework, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-08, Inspect and Complete Documentation for Class A Falsework, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-09, Test and Compare Concrete to Specifications, NQF Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-PM-10, Place, Compact and Finish Concrete, NQF Level 4, 12 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-11, Communicate with Colleagues and Stakeholders, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.
  • 641403-001-00-PM-12, Implement Labour Intensive Construction Systems and Techniques for Buildings and Structures, NQF Level 3, 3 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 48

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 641403-003-00-WM-01, Processes and Procedures for Setting Out, Planning and Preparing for Civil Structures Construction, NQF Level 3, 5 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-WM-02, Processes and Procedures for Assembling and Placement of Steel Reinforcement, NQF Level 4, 13 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-WM-03, Formwork Processes and Procedures for Different Applications, NQF Level 4, 13 Credits.
  • 641403-003-00-WM-04, Processes and Procedures for Mixing, Placing, Compacting and Finishing Concrete, NQF Level 3, 7 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 38 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply knowledge and theoretical concepts to plan, prepare the site and set out and transfer levels for the plan, and prepare effectively for civil structures construction work.
    2. Apply knowledge of compliance and structural integrity to assemble, place, and fix steel reinforcement.
    3. Apply knowledge of the stability of a construction process to erect and strip different types of falsework for various applications.
    4. Apply knowledge of project timelines and specifications to mix, place, compact, and finish concrete. 

    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 the plan, and prepare effectively for civil structures construction work.
  • Interpret construction drawings, specifications and programmes according to job requirements and standard operating procedures.
  • Set out and transfer the level for structures construction as per the job specifications.
  • Plan and prepare civil structures construction work according to job specifications and standard operating procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
    ELO 2: Apply knowledge of compliance and structural integrity to assemble, place, and fix steel reinforcement.
  • Interpret reinforcing drawings, specifications and bending schedules according to job requirements and standard operating procedures.
  • Assemble reinforcing in accordance with planned sequence and prescribed shape requirements.
  • Place reinforcing in position through coordinated handling, off-loading and positioning.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
    ELO 3: Apply knowledge of stability of a construction process to erect and strip different types of falsework for various applications.
  • Erect and strip different types of formworks according to specific application and standard operating procedures.
  • Construct support structures to specific application and standard operating procedures.
  • Undertake civil structures construction works utilising the required power tools and small plant in accordance with health, safety and environmental requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
    ELO 4: Apply knowledge of project timelines and specifications to mix, place, compact, and finish concrete.
  • Collect, test, and compare different concrete samples to specifications and record deviations.
  • Mix, place, and compact concrete to prevent contamination and leakage and eliminate all air pockets and weak points.
  • Finish concrete by applying the correct compound and avoiding defects and collapse of the concrete.

    Integrated Assessment
    Formative Assessments:
    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 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, 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 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. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification was compared to the following international qualifications:

    Country: New Zealand
    Institution name: Connexis
    Qualification title: New Zealand Certificate in Infrastructure Works (Civil)
    Duration: 12 Months

    Purpose:
    The purpose of this qualification is to provide the infrastructure industry with experienced, competent individuals who have the skills and knowledge to deliver quality outcomes across a range of civil infrastructure work operations.

    Modules:
    Core Modules:
  • Interpret Civil Infrastructure Plans and Specifications.
  • Apply Health, Safety, and Environmental Protection Practices in Civil Construction.
  • Perform Civil Infrastructure Operational Activities.
  • Implement and Monitor Traffic Management Plans.

    Elective Modules:
  • Apply Knowledge of Civil Construction Materials.
  • Use And Maintain Civil Construction Equipment.
  • Apply Project Quality Management Procedures.

    Similarities:
  • The South African qualification is similar to the New Zealand Certificate in terms of core content, such as health and safety practices, interpreting plans, and performing civil operational activities.
  • Both qualifications emphasise practical, hands-on training that prepares learners for the demands of the construction industry.

    Differences:
  • The South African qualification includes specific modules on the assembly and dismantling of falsework, steel reinforcement, and concrete work, which may not be covered in as much depth in the New Zealand qualification.
  • The New Zealand qualification also includes specific training on the use and maintenance of civil construction equipment.

    Country: Australia
    Institution name: Charles Darwin University
    Qualification title: Certificate IV in Civil Construction Supervision
    Duration: 12 Months
    AQF: Level 4

    Purpose:
    The purpose of the qualification is to equip learners for supervisory roles and technical specialist positions in civil construction. It is for learners who will perform tasks involving a broad range of varied work activities, most of which are specialised and within known or changing contexts. Learners are responsible for the quantity and quality of their own work, as well as for the output of others. Learners contribute to developing technical solutions to non-routine problems.

    Modules:
    Core Modules:
  • Demonstrate Leadership in the Workplace.
  • Coordinate Business Operational Plans.
  • Implement and Monitor WHS (Work Health and Safety) Policies, Procedures, and Programs.
  • Supervise Civil Works.
  • Apply Site Risk Management Systems.

    Elective Modules:
  • Support the Learning and Development of Teams and Individuals.
  • Implement Continuous Improvement.
  • Apply Risk Management Processes.
  • Implement Traffic Management Plans.

    Similarities:
  • The South African qualification is similar to the Australian Certificate IV in terms of core content, such as leadership, site management, and risk management.
  • Both qualifications emphasise practical skills necessary for supervisory roles in civil construction.

    Differences:
  • The South African qualification includes specific modules on the assembly and dismantling of falsework, steel reinforcement, and concrete work, which are not covered in as much depth in the Australian course.
  • The Australian qualification also allows for more flexible study options, including online learning.

    Conclusion:
    In general, the South African qualification compares well with the New Zealand and Australian standards in terms of core content related to site management, safety practices, and project supervision. The comparisons highlight the South African qualification's emphasis on practical, hands-on skills and its alignment with international standards in the construction industry. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal, vertical and diagonal articulation options.

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Occupational Certificate: Falsework Foreman, NQF Level 4
  • National Senior Certificate, 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, are found in the Curriculum Document, as listed below.

    The curriculum title and code are: Civil Structures Construction Constructor, 641403-003-00-00.

    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.