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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Further Education and Training Certificate: Minerals Surveying 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
50082  Further Education and Training Certificate: Minerals Surveying 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
MQA - Mining Qualifications Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Further Ed and Training Cert  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  148  Level 4  NQF Level 04  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  2009-09-01  2012-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2013-06-30   2016-06-30  

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 
Purpose:

The purpose of this qualification is to build knowledge and skill that is required by employees in a minerals surveying environment that would add value to the qualifying learner in terms of enrichment of the person, status and recognition. It provides an opportunity for learners to learn and apply skills in relation to the workplace.

People credited with this qualification are able to:
  • Understand and solve problems and understand business principles and their application by being able to communicate in a variety of ways and apply the following principles in practical applications.
  • Utilise mathematical and computer science skills.
  • Perform Tape Surveys, Plot and Calculate Quantities from Related Observations.
  • Construct and Extract Information from Mine Plans.
  • Establish the Spatial Position of Survey Points by means of accepted Survey Methods.
  • Perform Calculations from Survey Observations and Apply Results.

    The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies in minerals surveying across the mining and minerals sector.

    The unit standards are intended as building blocks for the further development of skills that will make the learner a more fulfilled, informed, efficient and cost effective worker in the industry. This should result in more efficient service to the customer and make the industry more competitive in the global market.

    Rationale:

    The Mining & Minerals sector serves the need of the society and the economy. The FETC in Minerals Surveying is designed to benefit both the learner and the employer in the sector and thus contribute to an improved economy by ensuring learner competence and enhanced productivity.

    Through its design this qualification will meet the needs of learners in the Mining and Minerals sector (or those wishing to enter the Mining and minerals sector) who require technical expertise and essential knowledge and the qualification will give them the opportunity to balance their practical skills with the essential knowledge needed to earn a formal qualification in minerals surveying. The qualification facilitates access from previously disadvantaged groups and other learners to acquire the technical knowledge and skills that are required.

    Persons working in minerals surveying require a sound knowledge of the mining and minerals environment and the capacity to understand minerals surveying operations. The person acquiring this qualification will be able to competently perform traversing, levelling and tape surveying in the mining environment as well as the associated calculations and reports. The person will also be responsible for the health, safety and experiential training of persons under their supervision and will be able to interact with all other mining disciplines.

    The FETC: Minerals Surveying will produce proficient learners who are able to contribute to improved productivity and efficiency within the industry. The impact and benefit of the qualification on the learner and the mining industry can be detailed as follows:
  • The learner will be able to perform a wider range of tasks in the minerals surveying discipline as well as gain recognition for his/her ability and achievements. The learner will also be able to use the qualification as a means to attain further qualifications. The industry will benefit by having personnel who are proficient in the field of minerals surveying resulting in improved production and a safer working environment.

    This qualification will enhance the status, productivity and employability of the learner within the mining and minerals industry as well as contribute to the quality, production rate and growth. This allows for access, progression, portability and mobility within and between the different mining operations areas in the mining and minerals industry.

    This qualification will also provide the means for current workers to receive recognition of prior learning, to upgrade their skills and achieve a nationally recognised qualification. The qualification is structured in such a way that it exposes the learner to different aspects of minerals surveying. It is anticipated that this qualification will promote the notion of life long learning. This will lead to competence in the field of work and thereby add value to the industry and improve the economy of the country. It will also lead to a balanced society in that learners will understand how the work they do fits into the greater mining industry. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Communication, Mathematical and Computer Literacy at NQF Level 3.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through recognition of prior learning in terms of the criteria laid out.

    Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

    All such evidence should be judged according to the general principles of assessment described in the note to assessors.

    Access to the Qualification:
  • There is open access to the qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The Qualification consists of a Fundamental, a Core and an Elective Component.

    To be awarded the Qualification, learners are required to obtain a minimum of 148 credits as detailed below.

    Fundamental component:

    The Fundamental Component consists of Unit Standards in:
  • Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 4 to the value of 16 credits.
  • Communication at NQF Level 4 in a First South African Language to the value of 20 credits.
  • Communication in a Second South African Language at NQF Level 3 to the value of 20 credits.

    It is compulsory therefore for learners to do Communication in two different South African languages, one at NQF Level 4 and the other at NQF Level 3.

    All Unit Standards in the Fundamental Component are compulsory.

    Core component:
  • The Core Component consists of Unit Standards to the value of 74 credits all of which are compulsory.

    Elective component:

    The Elective Component consists of Unit Standards in a number of specializations each with its own set of Unit Standards. Learners are to choose a specialization area and Elective Unit Standards at least to the value of 18 credits.

    Rock breaking (Total 33 credits):
  • 115758: Identify and evaluate the effect of seismic activity on the rock mass and support units, NQF Level 3, 4 credits.
  • 115756: Identify and evaluate signs of deteriorating ground conditions during the mining process, NQF Level 4, 4 credits.
  • 120399: Conduct a risk assessment using geotechnical data, and local geotechnical plan, NQF Level 4, 2 credits.
  • 120415: Explain rock strength deterioration, NQF Level 4, 4 credits.
  • 115746: Demonstrate an understanding of the role of pillars as a support medium, design considerations and principles, NQF Level 4, 4 credits.
  • 120414: Explain rock behaviour under various loading conditions, NQF Level 4, 4 credits.
  • 115678: Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between geological structures and mining layouts, NQF Level 4, 3 credits.
  • 120409: Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of different depth environments, NQF Level 4, 4 credits.
  • 120406: Demonstrate an understanding of mining strategies applicable to the various depth environments, NQF Level 4, 6 credits.

    Sampling/Valuation (Total 26 credits):
  • 9754: Mark off & map face sampling sections for mineral evaluation purposes, NQF Level 4, 11 credits.
  • 11113: Conduct a grade control investigation, NQF Level 4, 15 credits.

    Mining/Geology (Total 18 credits):
  • 115701: Demonstrate an Understanding of Sedimentary Rocks, NQF Level 4, 6 credits.
  • 115705: Demonstrate an Understanding of Igneous Rocks, NQF Level 4, 6 credits.
  • 115708: Demonstrate an Understanding of Metamorphic Rocks, NQF Level 4, 6 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways and apply business principles.
    2. Perform tape surveys, plot and calculate quantities from related observations.
    3. Construct and extract information from mine plans.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results.

    Critical Cross Field Outcomes supported by Exit Level Outcomes:
  • Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical thinking have been made.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways and apply business principles.
    3. Construct and extract information from mine plans.
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization and community.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways and apply business principles.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    2. Perform tape surveys, plot and cfalculate quantities from related observations.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results.
  • Collecting, analyzing, organizing and critically evaluating information.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    2. Perform tape surveys, plot and cfalculate quantities from related observations.
    3. Construct and extract information from mine plans.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways and apply business principles.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility toward the environment and health of others.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    2. Perform tape surveys, plot and cfalculate quantities from related observations.
    3. Construct and extract information from mine plans.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Equivalent exit level outcomes:

    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways and apply business principles.
    3. Construct and extract information from mine plans.
    4. Establish the spatial position of survey points by means of accepted survey methods.
    5. Perform calculations from survey observations and apply results. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    1.
  • Oral and written communication is successfully engaged in within the minerals surveying environment.
  • Related problems are understood and solved to indicate critical and creative thinking.
  • Business principles are understood and applied within a business environment.

    2.
  • Surveying related to minerals surveying is conducted correctly.
  • Tape and offset surveying are undertaken as required.
  • Linear measurements on a plan are plotted and quantities are calculated correctly.

    3.
  • Information is obtained from a plan.
  • A Cartesian coordinate grid is constructed and points are plotted.
  • Survey points are plotted and projected.

    4.
  • A survey instrument is set up to take observations.
  • The position of a survey point is observed.
    Range: polar/traversing/forward intersection/tacheometric methods.
  • The elevation of a point is determined by levelling.
  • Survey control is established and drilling machines are aligned.

    5.
  • Grade chains are calculated and manufactured.
  • The provisional position of a survey point is calculated from polar/traverse observations.
  • Tacheometric observations are reduced and a plan is produced.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show they are able to integrate concepts, actions and ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts.

    Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of observable performance as well as the thinking behind the performance, and must be based on a summative assessment guide. The guide will spell out how the assessor will assess different aspects of the performance and will include:
  • Observing the learner at work (both in the primary activity as well as other interactions).
  • Asking questions and initiating short discussions to test understanding.
  • Looking at records and reports in the portfolio and reviewing previous assessments.

    In some cases inference will be necessary to determine competence depending on the nature and context within which performance takes place.

    It is necessary to ensure that the fundamental part of the qualification is also targeted to ensure that while the competence may have been achieved in a particular context, learners are able to apply it in a range of other contexts and for further learning. The assessment should also ensure that all the critical cross-field outcomes have been achieved.

    The learner may choose in which language s/he wants to be assessed. This should be established as part of a process of preparing the learner for assessment and familiarising the learner with the approach being taken.

    While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit-level outcomes. The assessment process should cover both the explicit tasks required for the qualification as well as the understanding of the concepts and principles that underpin the activities associated with the tube and pipe manufacturing process. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    In terms of these unit standards and qualifications an intensive search was conducted via the internet utilising key words such as unit standard, mining, surface mining, mining environments. National qualification sites on the internet were also explored to determine whether unit standards or qualifications in the Minerals Surveying field existed and if so whether the content would be useful for the development of the unit standards and qualification.The following sites were looked at:
  • http://www.rajasthan.gov.in/MINERAL.SHTM - the courses/programmes found here were at an advanced level, which is not the objective of this South African qualification.
  • http://www.ntis.gov.au/cgi- The "National Diploma in Surveying (Level 6) with an optional strand in Mine Surveying" was found. Certain components of this qualification can be found in this proposed South African FETC for example: the requirements for "Plan surveying processes" and "Gather Data" from the New Zealand qualification may be similar to "Perform tape surveys". From this South African certificate.
  • Softree engineering - Engineering an easier way http//www.softree.com (CANADA).

    The following three-day course was analysed:

    > Surveying and Mapping (3 days).
    > This course targets both novice and experienced users. The course covers entry of survey notes, closing and adjusting traverses, geo-referencing, terrain modelling, contouring, profiles, volumes, drafting functions, and output sheet generation.
    > The elements within this course would be deemed appropriate for training learners towards the FETC.
  • http//www.leica-geosystems.com (Training conducted in the USA and Canada).
  • Various short programmes are trained. These programmes (combined) could also be deemed appropriate for learning towards this FETC.

    In general this qualification and its component unit standards compare well with their international counterparts. The only major differences are in formatting and scope of coverage or focus. South Africa has a world class and highly sophisticated Mining and Minerals Sector. In selecting countries for international comparability it is important to consider countries where mining occurs or in countries where processes that can be used within mines exist. Within this qualification countries that have world-class mineral surveying practices were benchmarked. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification allows for horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National Diploma in Minerals Surveying at NQF Level 5.

    Horizontal articulation:
  • FETC: Surveying
  • FETC: Geomatics
  • FETC: Hydrographic Surveying
  • FETC: Photogrammetry Surveying 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this unit standard must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or by an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the Unit Standard.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this unit standard may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors should be in possession of:
  • An appropriate qualification at NQF Level 5 or above and preferably relevant workplace practical experience.
  • Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  11111  Calculate and manufacture grade chains  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Core  11596  Construct a Cartesian co-ordinate grid and plot points  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  11637  Set up a survey instrument to take observations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  11694  Undertake tape and offset surveying  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  14434  Calculate the provisional position of a survey point from polar/traverse observations  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Core  11598  Determine the elevation of a point by levelling  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Core  9763  Establish side-grade pegs in a flat development end  Level 4  NQF Level 04  7 
    Core  11124  Establish survey control and align drilling machines  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  14237  Observe the position of a survey point by forward intersection  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  14236  Observe the position of a survey point by polar / traversing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  14235  Observe the position of a survey point by using tacheometric methods  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  11624  Obtain information from a plan  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  11122  Perform tape surveys  Level 4  NQF Level 04  7 
    Core  9762  Plot and project survey points  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Core  11117  Plot linear measurements on a plan and calculate quantities  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Core  14258  Reduce tacheometric observations and produce a plan  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Fundamental  8968  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8971  Analyse and respond to a variety of literary texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8969  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  8973  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9015  Apply knowledge of statistics and probability to critically interrogate and effectively communicate findings on life related problems  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8974  Engage in sustained oral communication and evaluate spoken texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  8975  Read analyse and respond to a variety of texts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  9016  Represent analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Fundamental  8979  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Fundamental  7468  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business, national and international issues  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Fundamental  8976  Write for a wide range of contexts  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  11113  Conduct a grade control investigation  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Elective  115746  Demonstrate an elementary understanding of pillar characteristics, behaviour and function  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  115758  Identify and evaluate the effect of seismic activity on the rock mass and support units  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  13949  Apply technical knowledge and skill to align business unit performance to business goals  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 
    Elective  120399  Conduct a risk assessment using geotechnical data and a local geotechnical plan  Level 4  NQF Level 04  2 
    Elective  115705  Demonstrate an understanding of igneous rocks  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  115708  Demonstrate an understanding of metamorphic rocks  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  120406  Demonstrate an understanding of mining strategies applicable to the different depth environments  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  115701  Demonstrate an understanding of sedimentary rocks  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6 
    Elective  120409  Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of different depth environments  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  120414  Explain rock behaviour under various loading conditions  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  120415  Explain rock strength deterioration  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  115756  Identify and evaluate signs of deteriorating ground conditions during the mining process  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  9754  Mark off and map face sampling sections for mineral evaluation purposes  Level 4  NQF Level 04  11 
    Elective  9244  Plan and conduct meetings  Level 4  NQF Level 04  4 
    Elective  14214  Evaluate and improve the project team`s performance  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  8 


    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.