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 THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Diploma: Fossil Power Plant Process Control 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
23679  National Diploma: Fossil Power Plant Process Control 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Power Plant Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
Was EWSETA until Last Date for Achievement  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Diploma  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  248  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 0160/05  2007-08-07  2009-02-18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2010-02-18   2014-02-18  

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 is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
61570  National Diploma: Power Plant Process Control Operations  Level 5  NQF Level 05  241  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Learners obtaining this qualification will be recognised on a national level for performing process control activities on a fossil fired power plant. This qualification will ensure professionalism, proficiency and excellence in the control of fossil power generation units. It will also assist in changing perceptions on the status and functional levels of process controllers in fossil power generation. The qualification will provide the incumbent with pride, self worth and enhance their morale.

Worth to the employer will be manifested in the competence of the employee in terms of safe, sound and efficient operations performed by the process controller. This qualification will provide standards for recognition of prior learning of existing process controller competence throughout the industry and allow credits to be obtained in cross- functional learning fields.

A person acquiring this qualification will have skills, knowledge and behavioural competence to perform the following:
  • To objectively recognise what is happening in or across situations with people, plant and materials.
  • To recognise the direct impact of decisions and actions and the effects on plant and people in the direct work environment.
  • The most appropriate action is decided upon after problems were recognised, analysed and the options evaluated.
  • The person can listen, question, observe, describe accurately and align with the senders` needs
  • The person can order resources, ideas, events, people and plant to enable required events to realise at organisation and system level.
  • The energy flow through the conversion process is known and the key conversion process concepts are understood.
  • The theory of application of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation plant components and their interrelation to the plant are known and understood.
  • Interrelated plant processes and safety equipment are operated and controlled safely and efficiently.
  • Relevant documentation is completed accurately and processed correctly according to operating procedures, service notifications and authorisation requirements.
  • The trends/incidents related to the specific plant are understood.
  • Concepts, terms and theory of the specified technical field as for the prescribed subjects are known.
  • Operation of the plant is controlled to stay within the set limits for environmental impact.
  • Process chemistry fundamentals applicable to process plant and the implications of operating outside of chemical specifications are known and understood.
  • The relevant regulatory requirements are known, understood and complied with, and subordinates are trained and controlled in their adherence to the Regulations.
  • The Organisation`s purpose, values it subscribes to and it`s vision are known and staff are led in accordance with this.
  • The computer is utilised to manage/control the plant processes and analyses plant and conditions.
  • Production targets are met by planning, organising, leading and controlling of staff, and motivating and influencing their behaviour create effective working relationships.

    Rationale

    This qualification is designed for learners who will be responsible for controlling integrated processes on Power plants from remote located control centres.

    This qualification is based on the power generation industry needs in building competence in the workplace for Fossil Power Plant Process Operations. The qualification therefore sets national standards for Power Plant Controllers in Fossil Fired Power Plant Process Control.

    This qualification provides the learner with accessibility to be employed within the process control function on fossil fired power plant units.

    Other considerations in national interest addressed by this Qualification are:
  • Setting national standards of practice in this specific learning field.
  • Building individual capacity in this specialised profession.
  • Ensure entry, progression and mobility into Life Long Learning in this specific learning field.
  • Addressing Power Plant Operations Industry specific employment requirements.
  • Enhancing of professional competence on a national level.
  • Providing an avenue of upliftment for the previously disadvantaged into this professional discipline.
  • Providing a Qualification to be used in a learnership in this field.
  • Enhance social and economic development. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • National Certificate in Fossil Power Plant Operations NQF Level 4.
    Learners should also be competent in:
  • Communication and Language studies NQF 4.
  • Mathematics NQF 4.

    Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

    This qualification will be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning for those qualifications previously issued by the ESKOM AND ALLIED INDUSTRIES TRAINING BOARD (EAITB), i.e. Power Plant Controller Certificate. (Currently been issued by the ENERGY SETA).

    Any other evidence of prior learning should be assessed through formal RPL processes to recognise achievement thereof. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Level, credits and learning components assigned to the qualification for Fossil Power Plant Process Controller.

    Fundamentals: 30 credits
    Core: 208 credits, which is a combination of the following:
  • Generic Core: 44
    AND
  • Group A - Non-unitised Plant: 130 credits
    OR
  • Group B - Unitised Plant: 130 credits
    AND
    Group C - Specific Core: 34 credits
    Electives: Minimum of 10 credits
    Total minimum credits: 248

    This Diploma consists of a planned combination of outcomes preparing the learner to perform outcomes directly linked to the safe and sound operation of power generating on a fossil power plant and also developing leadership competence needed to lead subordinates to the strategic intent of the organization.

    This qualification consists of unit standards that are classified as fundamental, core and elective. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Demonstrate understanding of leadership concepts related to the function of first line supervision.
    2. Demonstrate understanding of the fundamentals of Fossil Power Plant Engineering Concepts related to the control of power generating units.
    3. Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory requirements associated with the control of fossil power generating units.
    4. Control fossil power generating processes within safe operating parameters.
    5. Perform basic functions on a stand-alone computer.
    6. Perform continuous improvement activities on Fossil Power Plant Processes.

    Exit points for learners who do not complete the Qualifications:
  • Learners will be credited with Unit Standards in which they have proved competence.
  • Learners who complete individual Unit Standards, but do not complete this Qualification retain their credits, however, should the substance of the unit Standard change in future the validity of the credit(s) towards the Qualification may be reviewed.
  • Learners who change their provider before completing the Qualification may transfer their credits to the new provider/learning site.

    Critical cross-field outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes, as detailed in the assessment criteria for each exit level outcome and within the unit standards associated with each exit level outcome:

    1. Identifying and solving problems in which responses indicate that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
    2. Working effectively with others as a member of a group, organisation or community.
    3. Organising and managing oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.
    4. Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
    5. Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral/written persuasion.
    6. Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    7. Demonstrating and understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Learning programmes directed towards this qualification will also contribute to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of the society at large, by making individuals aware of the importance of:
    1. Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
    2. Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
    3. Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts.
    4. Exploring education and career opportunities; and developing entrepreneurial opportunities. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.
  • The role of self-management is described within the context of first line supervision.
  • The role of management practices is explained within the context of first line supervision.
  • Leadership attributes are integrated to meet the strategic intent within the organisation.
  • Understanding of leadership concepts contributes to the safe, efficient and effective control of power plants.

    2.
  • Knowledge is demonstrated of the application of fossil power plant engineering concepts within the context of power plant process control.
  • Applications of knowledge are suited for solving control problems on the fossil process plant.
  • Equipment design and application theories are described within the context of their application.
  • Thermal and cycle efficiency are interpreted correctly within power generating processes.
  • Knowledge is demonstrated of the technology associated with the control of power generating plants.
  • Theories related to the generation of electricity and related apparatus are interpreted within the context of their application.
  • Water treatment principles are described within power plant thermal processes.
  • Explanations provided of Power Plant Engineering concepts are consistent with established literature and engineering conventions.
  • Applications of knowledge contribute towards the safe and effective control of plant processes.

    3.
  • Regulatory requirements in workplace procedures are described and interpreted within the context of the Occupational Health and Safety Act
  • Non-compliance to statutory requirements is described in terms of the potential impact on the micro -environment.
  • Interrelations between related regulatory requirements are described in terms of standard operating procedures.

    4.
  • Plant operations and control activities are performed according to operating standards.
  • Out of normal emergency conditions are identified and acted upon using Power Plant Engineering Principles.
  • Interrelation of Steam and Turbo generator processes are interpreted and contextualised within a Power Generating unit.
  • Teamwork activities are facilitated to meet operational requirements.
  • Power generating processes are controlled to meet system demand.
  • Thermal efficiency attained meets design specifications.
  • Tasks assigned to respective staff meet operational requirements.

    5.
  • Basic functions on a stand-alone computer support Power Plant operational communication activities.
  • Structure and format of communications via computer meet organisational standards.
  • Basic functions are performed in line with manufacturer`s guidelines.

    6.
  • Corrective actions identified and suggested for improvement of activities on Fossil Power Plant Processes.
  • Corrective actions disseminated to appropriate individuals.
  • Corrective actions implemented to improve quality of activities on Fossil Power Plant Processes.

    Integrated Assessment

    The applied competence (practical, foundational and reflective competencies) of this qualification will be achieved if a learner is able to achieve all exit level outcomes of the qualification as per the rules specified. Applicable critical cross field outcomes must be assessed during any combination of practical, foundational and reflexive competencies. Assessment methods and tools to determine the whole person development and integration of applied knowledge and skills.
  • Certain exit level outcomes are measurable and verifiable through assessment criteria assessed in one application
  • Applicable assessment tools to assess the foundational, reflective and practical competencies within the power plant control environment
  • A detailed portfolio of evidence is required of the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner
  • Assessors and moderators should develop and conduct integrated assessment by making use of the range of formative and summative methods. Assessors should assess and give credit for the evidence of learning that has already been acquired through any form of learning.
  • Unit standards associated with this qualification must be used to assess specific and critical cross -field outcomes. During integrated assessment, the assessor should make use of formative and summative assessment methods and should assess combinations of practical, foundational and reflective competencies.

    Formative assessment

    Assessment criteria for formative assessment are described in the various unit standards. Formative assessment takes place during the process of learning and assessors should use a range of appropriate assessment methods and tools that assess competence holistically. These methods include but are not limited to the following:
  • On-the-job observations.
  • Role-play simulations.
  • Knowledge tests, exams, case studies, projects, logbooks, workbooks.
  • Verbal report backs (presentations).
  • Portfolios of evidence (RPL).
  • Working in teams (360 degrees evaluations).
  • Scenario sketching.
  • Incident reports.

    The assessment tools and methods used by the assessor must be:
  • Fair, not to hinder or disadvantage the learner in any way,
  • Valid, to measure what is intended to measure,
  • Reliable, consistent and delivers the same output across a range of learners and assessors

    Summative assessment

    Summative assessment is carried out at the end of each competence level to assess the achievement of the learner. A detailed portfolio of evidence is required to prove the practical, foundational and reflective competencies of the learner.

    Assessors and moderators

    Work place assessors should develop and conduct integrated assessments by using appropriate methods and techniques.

    Moderation to be done according to laid down requirements. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The qualification is based on a study conducted by ESKOM on various European countries with leading power producers. The German model (with minor changes) was adopted as the basis for this qualification. Operator qualifications after this were registered under the manpower-training act and accredited by the ESKOM and Allied Industries Training Board (EAITB). This qualification was further developed to meet the SAQA requirements for registration. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to pursue different careers in power generation related industries. Possible articulation fields could be the following: human resource development, process engineering, functional supervision, system specialization, quality assurance and health and safety. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this Qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant SETA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this Qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant SETA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant SETA according to the SETAs policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation; in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between SETAs (including professional bodies); and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at exit points of the qualification. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described both in individual unit standards, exit level outcomes as well as the integrated competence described in the qualification.
  • A learner wishing to be assessed for this Qualification can be assessed through an accredited assessment provider/centre. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors need to be competent in the planning and conducting of assessment of learning outcomes and in the design and development of assessments as described in the unit standard: Plan and conduct assessment of learning outcomes (ID: 7978).

    The assessor must be:
  • Competent on the standard at which the assessment is conducted.
  • At least 12 months experience in performing the outcomes for which he/she is registered for.
  • Recognised as a subject matter expert in the specific organisation/industry.
  • Registered with the relevant SETA. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    This qualification has been replaced by qualification 61570, which is "National Diploma: Power Plant Process Control Operations", Level 5, 241 credits.
    This Qualification will be replaced by Qualification 97384, which is "Occupational Certificate: Fossil Power Plant Process Controller", Level 6, 210 credits, as soon as 97384 is registered. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  10893  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of electrical power generation  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  14204  Interpret basic electronic theories in power plant process control  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  10894  Interpret electrical circuits  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  10677  Interpret electrical theories  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  10719  Understand the operating principles of transformers  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  10707  Understanding the principles of magnetism  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  14056  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of earthing practices on alternating current power systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Core  14057  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of electrical systems and related concepts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  14058  Describe instrumentation control within a process control system  Level 4  NQF Level 04  9 
    Core  10897  Explain transformer characteristics applied on power systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Core  13803  Phasing and or synchronising on high voltage intergrated systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  10689  Understand electrical protection systems associated with power generating processes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  10933  Understand the principles of alternating current (AC) motor operation and application in a process plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Core  14055  Understand water chemistry in a power plant environment  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13562  Control load variation on a fossil fired steam generator from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  7 
    Core  13596  Control load variations on a fossil fired power generation unit from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  9 
    Core  13564  Control load variations on a steam driven turbo-generator from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Core  14041  Demonstrate Knowledge and Understanding of the Electrical Technology Associated with the Control of Electrical Energy on a Power Generating Unit in the Power Plant  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  6 
    Core  114470  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of thermal efficiency in a power plant  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Core  13600  Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory requirements for permit to work systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Core  13572  Monitor and Sustain Plant Operability of a Steam Driven Turbo-Generator System from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  7 
    Core  13571  Monitor and Sustain Plant Operability on a Fossil Fired Steam Generator from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Core  13601  Preserve Plant and or Equipment on a Fossil Fired Steam Generator from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Core  13602  Preserve Plant and or Equipment on a Steam Driven Turbo-Generator Plant  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Core  13566  Shut down a fossil fired steam generator from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  13597  Shutdown a fossil fired power generating unit from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  22 
    Core  13568  Shutdown a steam driven turbo-generator system from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  11 
    Core  13599  Stabilise Out of Normal Emergency Conditions on a Fossil Fired Power Generating Unit from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  28 
    Core  13573  Stabilise Out of Normal Emergency Conditions on a Fossil Fired Steam Generator from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  15 
    Core  13575  Stabilise Out of Normal Emergency Conditions on a Steam Driven Turbo-Generator System from a Control Room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  12 
    Core  13558  Startup a fossil fired steam generator from a control room  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  32 
    Core  13561  Startup a Steam Driven Turbo-Generator from a Control Room.  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  21 
    Fundamental  14048  Apply Self Management Concepts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Fundamental  14045  Apply Transformational Leadership by Interacting with Key Stakeholders  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Fundamental  14046  Lead subordinates to support the strategy of the organisation  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Fundamental  14049  Understands, Applies and Displays Constructive Thinking  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  14047  Apply Sound Management Practices in Order to Achieve Short to Mid Term Objectives  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 
    Elective  14062  Demonstrate Knowledge of Safe Entry into Prohibited and/ or Restricted Areas  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Elective  113957  Use data entry and retrieval skills to input and retrieve computer data  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  10144  Identify, suggest and implement corrective actions to improve quality  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  15226  Implement systems to meet the flow of information in a team, department or division  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  3 
    Elective  12998  Produce spreadsheets using accounting related information technology  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 
    Elective  14504  Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of e-business as a competitive tool  Level 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  7 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    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.
     
    1. ESKOM HENDRINA POWER STATION - OPERATIONS 


    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.