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 Certificate: Nuclear Power Plant Operation 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
23733  National Certificate: Nuclear Power Plant Operation 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Power Plant Operations 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
EWSETA - Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Manufacturing and Assembly 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  239  Level 4  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L4  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

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 
Learners obtaining this qualification will be recognised on a national level for performing operational activities on Nuclear Steam Generator and Steam driven Turbo generator systems/processes and related equipment. This qualification will ensure professionalism, proficiency and excellence in the operating of power plants. It will also assist in changing perceptions on the status and functional levels of operators in the work place. The qualification will provide the operators 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 operator. This qualification will provide for recognition of prior learning of existing operators` competence throughout the industry and allow credits to be obtained in cross- functional learning fields.
The qualification will provide the foundational requirements for mobility and vertical progression into nuclear power plant control.

A person acquiring this qualification will have skills, knowledge and behavioural competence in the following areas on a nuclear power plant:
  • Energy conversion process and the impact of specific plant on this process.
  • Planning and organising of own job requirements.
  • Legislation regarding safety, health and environment on the specific plant area.
  • Technical understanding of mechanical, electrical and instrumentation components.
  • Dangers of chemicals used in his/her direct work environment.
  • Lessons learned from trends/incidents related to his/her specific plant.
  • Problem solving and decision-making.
  • Big Picture Thinking.
  • Process plant operating philosophies and configuration.
  • Communication, structures, procedures and processes.
  • Duties and responsibilities of persons within the functional area.

    Rationale of the qualification

    This qualification is based on Nuclear industry needs in building competences in the workplace for Nuclear Power Plant Operators. The qualification therefore sets national standards for field operators on Nuclear Steam Generators and Steam driven Turbo generators on nuclear power plants.

    This qualification provides the learner with accessibility primarily to be employed within the functional areas of Nuclear power plants but does not exclude horizontal movement to other power utilities.

    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 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
  • National Certificate in Nuclear Plant Auxiliary Operation (NQF 3)
  • Learners should also be competent in:
  • Communication and language studies NQF 3
  • Mathematical literacy NQF 3

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

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Level, credits and learning components assigned to the qualification in power plant auxiliary systems operation:
  • This Certificate is made up of a Planned combination of learning outcomes that have a defined purpose and will provide the learner with applied competence and a strong base for further learning in Power Plant Operations.
  • Minimum credits required to complete this qualification are 239 which is the sum of fundamental and core credits. Electives are not required but may be selected to meet specific industry needs.
  • The credits relate directly to the purpose of the Qualification with maximum portability between power utilities. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Solve complex problems through the application of mathematics in a variety of contexts.
    2. Communicate effectively in first and second language in the workplace.
    3. Demonstrate understanding of generic nuclear fundamentals.
    4. Demonstrate knowledge of occupational regulatory requirements.
    5. Operate Nuclear Power Plant Systems.
    6. Display understanding of leadership concepts related to Power Plant Operations.
    7. Perform basic functions on a stand alone computer.

    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:
    a) Identifying and solving problems in which responses indicate that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made.
    b) Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community.
    c) Organising and managing oneself and one`s activities responsibly and effectively.
    d) Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information.
    e) Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral/written persuasion.
    f) Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.
    g) 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.

    Exit points for learners who do not complete the Qualifications
    Learners will be credited with Unit Standards in which they have proved competence and will be able to retain these credits. However, should the substance of these standards change substantively in future the validity of the credits may be affected. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.
  • Problems identified using appropriate techniques.
  • Root causes identified and solving derived are appropriate to the problems.
  • Solutions derived are appropriate to the problems.
  • Problem solving approach is communicated in a clear and structured manner using appropriate terminology.
  • Solutions are validated in terms of the problem situation.
  • Technology is used effectively to assist in problems solving as required

    2.
    First Language:
  • Language structure and features are applied effectively to accommodate workplace requirements.
  • Appropriate media is used to communicate in a clear and structured manner.
  • Media used for communications contributes to effective communication.
  • Communication barriers are identified and addressed as appropriate to the situation

    Second language:
  • Text in written and oral communication interpreted against set standards

    3.
  • Knowledge is demonstrated of the application of power plant engineering concepts within the context of plant operations.
  • Applications of knowledge are suited for problem solving on nuclear process plants.
  • Equipment design and application theories understood within the context of their application.
  • Explanations provided of generic nuclear fundamentals are consistent with established literature and engineering conventions.
  • Applications of knowledge contribute towards the safe and effective operation of nuclear plant processes

    4.
  • As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) concepts are applied to minimise exposure to radiation.
  • Safety principles are applied in a holistic manner that protects plant and people.
  • 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.

    5.
  • Plant operations are performed safely and efficiently according to operating standards.
  • As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) concepts are applied to minimise exposure to radiation.
  • Out of normal emergency conditions are identified and acted upon using Nuclear Power Plant Engineering Principles.
  • Interrelation of Auxiliary Systems are interpreted and contextualised within Power Generation.
  • Principles of teamwork are applied according to operational requirements.

    6.
  • The role of self management is explained within the context of transformational leadership.
  • The role of management practices is explained within the context of transformational leadership.
  • Leadership attributes are integrated to meet the strategic intent within the organisation.
  • Understanding of leadership concepts contributes to the safe, efficient and effective operation of power plants.

    7.
  • 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.

    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 operations 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 a 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 and/or 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 meaningful competence level achieved by 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. Thereafter Operator qualifications 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.
    Koeberg Nuclear Power Station is the only nuclear generating power station in Africa. Since its inception the station has had and maintained strong international ties with various countries namely United States of America, France and China. International best practices have been incorporated into every aspect of Koeberg`s business. This was achieved by joining international nuclear quality assurance organisations.
    Koeberg is a member of the World Association of Nuclear Operation and the International Atomic Energy Agency. These bodies assure through the process of audits, evaluations, review and ensure that Koeberg is operated to the highest international standards. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides the learner with the flexibility to pursue different careers in the power generation industry. The level of flexibility within the range of elective utilities (hydro, nuclear, fossil and electrical control) will allow the individual to pursue further learning within those development areas. Other 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 SETA`s policies and guidelines
  • 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 only be assessed through an accredited assessment provider/centre. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Criteria for registration of assessors
    The assessor must be:
  • Competent on the standard at which the assessment is conducted
  • At least 12 months experienced in performing the outcomes for which he/she is registered.
  • Recognised as a subject matter expert by the organisation/industry.
  • Registered with the relevant SETA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  14102  Apply Radiation Requirements for Activities in Radiologically Controlled Zones at a Nuclear Power Plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  14062  Demonstrate Knowledge of Safe Entry into Prohibited and/ or Restricted Areas  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  14217  Operate Bulk Lubrication Oil Systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  14119  Operate nuclear auxiliary cooling systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Core  13726  Operate support plant compressed air systems  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Core  13723  Operate turbo-generator fire extinguishing system on a nuclear power plant  Level 3  NQF Level 03  1 
    Core  13709  Apply fundamental reactor engineering principles and theories related to nuclear power generating plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Core  14126  Demonstrate knowledge of steam turbines design and application  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  13705  Describe fundamental instrumentation and measurement equipment associated with nuclear power plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13706  Describe fundamental material science related to brittle fracture and vessel thermal stress in nuclear power plants  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13707  Describe the operation and application of electrical equipment as required for nuclear power plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13710  Explain thermodynamic principles and concepts as applied in nuclear power generating plant  Level 4  NQF Level 04  9 
    Core  14115  Operate nuclear reactor coolant and support systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  15 
    Core  13798  Operate nuclear reactor fire extinguishing systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  1 
    Core  13728  Operate nuclear reactor refueling water systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  14116  Operate nuclear reactor safeguard systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13794  Operate nuclear reactor vent and drain systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13801  Operate radioactive gaseous waste handling systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13727  Operate radioactive liquid waste treatment and handling systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  17 
    Core  11944  Operate Steam Turbine Condensate System  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  14059  Operate Steam Turbine Condenser Air Evacuation Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Core  14880  Operate Steam Turbine Feedwater Storage, Heating and Pumping Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Core  14881  Operate Steam Turbine Steam Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
    Core  14107  Operate Support Plant Diesel Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Core  13725  Operate Support Plant Electrical Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  7 
    Core  14113  Operate support plant fire extinguishing systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Core  13724  Operate Turbo-Generator Auxiliary Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 
    Core  13721  Operate Turbo-Generator Cooling Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Core  13720  Operate Turbo-Generator Oil Systems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  9 
    Fundamental  8968  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  14063  Apply Self Management through the Concepts of Positive Self-esteem and Resiliency  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Fundamental  8972  Interpret a variety of literary texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  14060  Understand transformational leadership  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8970  Write texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  7465  Collect and use data to establish complex statistical and probability models and solve related problems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7484  Describe, represent, analyse and explain changes in shape and motion in 2- and 3-dimensional space with justification  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Fundamental  8974  Engage in sustained oral communication and evaluate spoken texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7466  Represent and operate on complex numbers in non-trivial situations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Fundamental  8979  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7470  Work with a wide range of patterns and inverses of functions and solve related problems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8976  Write for a wide range of contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  7572  Demonstrate knowledge of and produce computer spreadsheets using basic functions  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  7547  Operate a personal computer system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  6 
    Elective  14064  Understand Constructive Thinking  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12 
    Elective  14061  Understand Management Practices  Level 3  NQF Level 03  7 
    Elective  13600  Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory requirements for permit to work systems  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  10 


    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.
     
    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.