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: Rock Breaking Underground Hard Rock 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
58760  National Certificate: Rock Breaking Underground Hard Rock 
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
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  126  Level 3  NQF Level 03  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 replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
49014  National Certificate: Rockbreaking: Underground Hard Rock  Level 3  NQF Level 03  130  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

There is a critical need in the industry to equip people with the required competencies to conduct safe and efficient blasting and other associated activities in an underground environment to sustain the future of the mining industry.

The Rockbreaker plays a critical role in the mining industry. Blasting operations are often conducted under hazardous and difficult conditions, which have to be managed appropriately in order to preserve the lives of those working in the industry, and ensure operational efficiency. While the title 'Rockbreaker' implies activities directly related to blasting, additional competencies in mining operations and supervision, management and leadership are also required in order to direct and supervise the activities of first line supervisors.

The National Certificate Rock Breaking Underground Hard Rock (NQF Level 3) is a statutory requirement in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act and Regulations for persons conducting blasting operations to be deemed competent in an underground hardrock mine.

Learners acquiring this qualification will have an improved understanding of their role and will acquire the applied competencies to consistently and effectively execute their duties by contributing to the mining process and adhering to quality, occupational safety and legislative requirements.

The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies required to work in a safe, healthy and effective manner in an underground environment.

People credited with this qualification are able to:
  • Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.
  • Adhere to occupational safety, health, environmental and legislative requirements.
  • Conduct blasting operations in a safe and proper manner.
  • Direct the supervision of the production teams.

    Rationale:

    The mining industry is one of the major contributors to the South African GDP and by the nature of its operations employs a large number of people.

    This qualification is a revision of the previous National Certificate in Rock Breaking (NRLD 49014) registered with SAQA. Changes are incorporated as a result of 4 years of practical implementation in the mining industry and reflect the drive towards continual improvement.

    The core activity in excavating rock and winning minerals remains safe controlled blasting operations both off and on the reef horizon. Blasting activities involve the marking, drilling and charging of shot holes with explosives and then ensuring these are blasted in a pre-determined sequence to maximise the break of the advancing face and at the same time minimising blast damage to the surrounding rock and so ensure a safe underground working environment for the production teams. Persons conducting blasting operations underground require sound technical knowledge of the type of rock being mined and its behaviour with the blast with specific reference to geological disconformities, depth, stress regimes, proximity to mined out areas and protection existing excavations, machinery, equipment and people working underground in the vicinity of the blast.

    This qualification will have a positive impact on the production on minerals and contribute significantly to society in general and the South African economy. Furthermore, the mining industry creates opportunity for many secondary and tertiary mining and minerals related business activities. In many parts of South Africa, entire communities would collapse if mining activities were to cease.

    The National Certificate in Rockbreaking for Underground Hardrock (Level 3) facilitates access for previously disadvantaged groups and other learners to acquire the technical knowledge and skills that are required to conduct blasting operations and direct the supervision of teams involved in the excavation and removal of rock in underground hardrock mines. It will enhance the status and employability of the learner within the mining and minerals industry and contribute significantly to his or her performance in terms of both quality and quantity of work output. The qualification also allows for further access, career progression, portability and mobility within and between the different mining operations' areas in the mining and minerals industry.

    The majority of the candidates for this qualification are likely to be working in the mining and minerals sector. The qualification will give them the opportunity to balance their practical skills with the essential knowledge needed to earn a formal qualification in rock breaking operations.

    This qualification will provide qualifying learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and competence to conduct blasting operations in an underground mine.

    This is the second in a learning pathway of four qualifications for Mining Operations. The pathway begins with the National Certificate in Mining Operations NQF Level 2 and ends with the National Certificate in Mine Overseeing NQF Level 5. This qualification series recognises the skills, knowledge and values relevant to a workplace and requires workplace experience.

    Qualifying learners will obtain the National Certificate in Rockbreaking Underground Hardrock NQF Level 3 which will enable them to conduct blasting operations in an underground mine and direct the supervision of the production teams involved in the safe breaking, removal and support of rock or mineral. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners embarking on learning towards this qualification are already competent in at least the following areas:
  • Communications and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 1.

    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.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Access to this qualification is restricted in terms of the Mines Health and Safety Act and Regulations to persons who have obtained the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground: Hard Rock NQF Level 2.

    It is preferable that candidates should already have adequate work experience as a first line supervisor in underground mining operations before embarking on learning towards this qualification. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamental:
  • All 42 credits in the Fundamental Component are compulsory.

    Core:
  • All 40 credits in the Core Component are compulsory.

    Elective:
  • A minimum of 44 credits at Level 3 or above must be selected from the list of elective unit standards that meet site-specific requirements. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and solve problems in a variety of ways.

    2. Adhere to occupational health, safety, environmental and legislatory requirements in the workplace.

    3. Conduct blasting and/or mechanised mining operations in a safe and proper manner in accordance with legislatory requirements.

    4. Direct the supervision of the production teams.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:

    This qualification addresses the following critical cross-field outcomes. The way in which the critical cross-field outcomes are addressed is presented in detail in the unit standards outlined in the Annexures:
  • Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical thinking have been made.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization and community.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 3.
  • Collecting, analyzing, organizing and critically evaluating information.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility toward the environment and health of others.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 1, 3, 4.
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem contexts do not exist in isolation.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 3, 4.
  • Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society at large, by making it an underlying intention of the programme of learning to make an individual aware of:
    > Reflecting on and exploring a variety of strategies to learn more effectively.
    > Participating as responsible citizens in the life of local, national and global communities.
    > Being culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of contexts.
    > Exploring education and career opportunities.
    > Developing entrepreneurial opportunities.
    > This critical cross-field outcome is addressed primarily through Exit Level Outcomes 3, 4. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1.
  • Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective team work.
  • Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
  • Numeracy and Natural Science skills are applied while performing tasks in the operational context.
  • Problems and solutions are recorded and monitored.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2.
  • Occupational health, safety and environmental principles and practices are understood and applied in the workplace.
  • Hazardous conditions in blasting operations are identified and rectified on a continual basis to ensure the health and safety of persons in the workplace.
  • Hazardous conditions in blasting operations are monitored and reported on a continual basis to ensure the safety and health of persons.
  • Explosives and explosive accessories are stored, transported and handled in accordance with mine standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3.
  • The various types of rock with special reference to geological disconformities, depth, stress regimes and proximity to existing underground excavations are recognised and the appropriate blasting practice applied.
  • Plant, machinery, equipment and people are protected from blasting activities.
  • Persons are protected from blasting fumes and dust.
  • Blasting activities directly related to mineral extraction are conducted in order to achieve the required production rates in terms of quantity, quality and costs.
  • Old explosives and explosive accessories are destroyed in accordance with mine standards.
  • Blasting activities are performed in accordance with the requirements of the Mines Health and Safety Act and regulations, mine specific standards and procedures and relevant environmental requirements.
  • Mechanised equipment is used to transport, mix and pump bulk explosives according to specified requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4.
  • Inputs from relevant sources are evaluated and discussed in order to achieve objectives.
  • Work activities of first line supervisors are directed in order to achieve both individual and team work objectives.
  • Work outputs of the team are monitored, evaluated and where necessary corrected to achieve the desired targets.

    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 interference 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 future 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 blasting operations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Mining activities occur in many countries all over the world, although the South African mining industry is more diverse than that of most other countries. South African mines are of the deepest in the world, which has required a high level of expertise and the maintenance of stringent occupational health and safety standards.

    In keeping with the diverse nature of the South African mining industry, the NC Rockbreaking Underground Hardrock Level 3 covers both massive and narrow tabular mining, which makes it difficult to compare to another qualification which may cover only one of these contexts.

    The specific nature of underground hardrock, or narrow tabular, mining requires competencies and personal characteristics which are unique in relation to other forms of mining or minerals extraction. The mining conditions are intense, and workers are subject to physical and emotional challenges relating to restricted space, heat, humidity, darkness and hard physical labour.

    The materials, equipment and techniques applied in narrow tabular mining are very specialised and therefore comparable competencies, qualifications and courses will only be found where similar mining conditions are present.

    There are not many countries in the world where deep scale mining is practised, and therefore only a few comparable training programmes or qualifications could be found. After consultation with experienced mining engineers, it was decided to search for information in the following countries or regions for education and training systems pertaining to the safe breaking, removal and support of hard rock:
  • India.
  • New Zealand.
  • Australia.
  • North and South America.
  • Canada.
  • India.
  • Zambia.
  • Botswana.

    Aspects searched for were qualifications, certificates, diplomas, skills programmes, training courses and examination syllabi.

    India, New Zealand, Canada and Australia are considered best practice because many aspects of their mining operations relate and compare to similar aspects of mining operations within the South African industry.

    A limiting aspect regarding international comparability is that the NQF Framework of South Africa and other countries are not identical, e.g. between South Africa and Australia. It is thus more meaningful to compare learning pathways, rather than individual qualifications. For that reason the NC Mining Operations Level 2 and Rockbreaking Underground Hardrock Level 3 have been in some cases compared to the same international qualifications (spanning both our levels).

    India:
  • India has one of the fastest growing economies in the world.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be best practice.
  • Underground mining conditions are similar to those envisaged in this qualification.
  • India has a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found (www.dqms.in):
    > There is a relation between the examination syllabi of the Mining Mates certificate and unit standards within the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 3)-South Africa as follows:

    Mining Mates Certificate:
  • Blasting and transport and use of explosives in mines.

    National Certificate in Rockbreaking:
  • Remove hazardous ground by means of blasting.
  • Break big rocks by means of blasting.
  • Remove support by means of blasting.
  • Destroy old explosives in an underground work place.
  • Demonstrate understanding of blasting products pertaining to blasting operations and principles of rock breaking activities in an underground hard rock environment.
  • Install an initiating system used in blasting operations underground.
  • Mark shot holes in an underground stope.
  • Mark shot holes and pilot holes in an underground development end.

    Conclusions:
    > The categories of competence are probably not specifically outcomes based within the Mining Mates certificate of competency.
    > The category that refers to blasting practices may not contain all the specialised components of blasting the way it is defined within the South African industry.
    > The level of the blasting category within the Mining Mates certificate might be pitched slightly lower than the comparable sections within the National Certificate in Rockbreaking.
    > The intent and content of the National Certificate in Rockbreaking L3 compare favourably with the Indian qualification.

    New Zealand:
  • New Zealand has a well-developed economy and mining sector.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, although the mines are not quite as deep.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be best practice.
  • New Zealand has a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found (www.nzqa.govt.nz).
    > A National Certificate in Extractive Industries (Operations) was found.
    > There is a relation between the unit standards within the New Zealand qualification and unit standards within the National Certificate in Mining Operations for Underground Hard Rock (Level 2)-South Africa as follows:

    Certificate III in Metalliferous Mining Operations-Underground:
  • Initiate blasts by remote control.
  • Apply blasting activities.
  • Initiate blasts.

    National Certificate in Rockbreaking:
  • Install an initiating system used in blasting operations underground.
  • Demonstrate understanding of blasting products pertaining to blasting operations and principles of rock breaking activities in an underground hard rock environment.
  • Remove hazardous ground by means of blasting.
  • Break big rocks by means of blasting.
  • Remove support by means of blasting.
  • Destroy old explosives in an underground work place.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using shock tube.
  • Time, connect and initiate a blast of a development end using shock tube.

    Conclusions:

    There is a fair degree of correlation between the two qualifications, although the National Certificate in Extractive Industries (Operations) is pitched at Level 3 the majority of the unit standards have a slightly lower level and credits. This is probably a result of the difference in the nature of mining operations between the two countries, the operations in South Africa being larger in scope and possibly more intensified.

    Australia:
  • Australia has a well-developed economy and mining sector.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, including some very deep mines.
  • Mining practices are well established and considered to be international best practice.
  • Australia has a well structured outcomes-based training and education system.
  • Details found:
    > A Certificate III in Metalliferous Mining Operations (www.riisc.com.au).
    > A Certificate IV in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Underground) (http://www.apprenticeship.det.nsw.edu.au.
    > The Certificate III compares to the South African qualification as follows:

    Certificate III in Metalliferous Mining Operations-Underground:
  • Initiate blasts by remote control.
  • Apply blasting activities.
  • Initiate blasts.

    National Certificate in Rockbreaking:
  • Install an initiating system used in blasting operations underground.
  • Demonstrate understanding of blasting products pertaining to blasting operations and principles of rock breaking activities in an underground hard rock environment.
  • Remove hazardous ground by means of blasting.
  • Break big rocks by means of blasting.
  • Remove support by means of blasting.
  • Destroy old explosives in an underground work place.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using shock tube.
  • Time, connect and initiate a blast of a development end using shock tube.

    The Certificate IV compares to the South African qualification (NC Mining Operations L3) as follows:

    Certificate IV in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Underground):
  • Initiate blasts by remote control.
  • Apply blasting activities.
  • Initiate blasts.

    National Certificate in Rockbreaking:
  • Install an initiating system used in blasting operations underground.
  • Demonstrate understanding of blasting products pertaining to blasting operations and principles of rock breaking activities in an underground hard rock environment.
  • Remove hazardous ground by means of blasting.
  • Break big rocks by means of blasting.
  • Remove support by means of blasting.
  • Destroy old explosives in an underground work place.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using fuses and igniter cord.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Time connect and initiate a blast of a development end using electric/electronic delay detonators.
  • Connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using shock tube.
  • Time, connect and initiate a blast of a development end using shock tube.
  • Although the blasting areas of competence compare closely in terms of purpose, level and credits in total, the Australian unit standards are more generalised, covering wider ranges when compared to the South African unit standards, which are more specialised with narrower ranges. This principle applies to both the Certificate III in Metalliferous Mining Operations - Underground and the Certificate IV in Metalliferous Mining Operations (Underground).
  • While not every aspect of the National Certificate in Rockbreaking for Underground Hard Rock (Level 3) is covered within the above mentioned certificates and training packages, they provide useful training information in terms of the comparable portions to persons wanting to qualify for the South African certificate. No comparable short courses or in-house programmes could be found.

    Canada:
  • Canada is a well-developed country.
  • Mining conditions and practices are similar to those in South Africa, including some very deep mines.
  • Education and training is not centralised, but each of the 13 provinces and regions is responsible for education and training.
  • There is a degree of cooperation by means of the Canadian Ministers of Education Council (CMEC).
  • According to the National Occupational Matrix underground miners are generally trained on the job.
  • Duties for underground miners are listed as:
    > Set up and operate drills and drilling machines to produce a designated pattern of blasting holes.
    > Operate diamond drills or other specialized drills such as raise boring machinery to test geological formations or to produce underground passageways.
    > Set up and operate mining machinery to shear coal, rock or ore from the working face.
    > Load explosives, set fuses, and detonate explosives to produce desired blasting patterns and rock fragmentation in underground mines.
    > Operate scooptram, load-haul-dump (LHD) machine or mucking machine to load and haul ore from stopes, drifts and drawpoints to ore passes.
    > Perform duties required to ensure safety and to support the mining advance, such as scaling loose rock from walls and roof, drilling and installing rock bolts, extending and installing air and water pipes, operating ore loading machinery, inspecting mine shafts, operating hoists that transport people, equipment and materials through mine shafts, and constructing timber supports and cribbing if required.
    > Perform routine maintenance of mining machinery.
  • The competencies envisaged by the Mining Operations learning pathway will lead to competence in the duties listed above and one can thus conclude that the learning contents will compare favourably.
  • The Saskatchewan Institute for Applied Skills and Technology offers an Underground Mining Level 2 Programme (www.siast.sk.ca) with relevant content courses (modules):
    > Ground Control 2.
    > Mine Ventilation 2.
    > Shaft Operations 2.
    > Manual drilling 2.
    > Blasting methods 2.
    > Ore movement 2.
    > Rigging and staging 2.

    Conclusions:

    The Canadian competencies compare well to the unit standards associated with the NC Rockbreaking Underground Hardrock Level 3.

    Other Countries:
  • In the SADC region operators within the breaking, removal and support of hard rock in mines are taught the skills at the workplace. No generic courses/programmes could be found to perform a comparative analysis.
  • Apart from the countries listed above, no further qualifications, courses or programmes could be found that could be compared to the competencies within the National Certificate in Rockbreaking for Underground Hard Rock (Level 3). 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    The qualification allows for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontal:
  • National Certificate: Strata Control (Under construction).
  • National Certificate: Rockbreaking Underground Coal (Under construction).
  • National Certificate: Rockbreaking Surface Mines (Under construction).

    Vertical:
  • National Certificate in Mining Operations - Level 4 (Under construction).
  • National Certificate in Mine Overseeing - Level 5 (Under construction).

    The qualification articulates well with other mining related qualifications and will allow the individual to progress to other qualifications in mining, mining-related sub-fields and mining supervision in all the various sectors of the mining industry. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against the qualification 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 qualification 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 associated unit standards.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification 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 or above the level of the qualification and preferably relevant workplace practical experience.
  • Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

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

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 49014, "National Certificate: Rockbreaking: Underground Hard Rock", Level 3, 130 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  244487  Break big rocks by means of blasting  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Core  244464  Destroy old explosives in an underground workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244479  Mark shot holes for secondary blasting  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Core  244389  Treat and remove misfires  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  244458  Demonstrate an understanding of legal terms and requirements related to rockbreaking operations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  244470  Demonstrate understanding of blasting products pertaining to blasting operations and principles of rock breaking activities in an underground hard rock environment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  9 
    Core  244486  Identify and deal with rock strata conditions pertaining to daily mining operations within an underground-working place  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Core  244460  Install an initiating system used in blasting operations underground  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Core  244483  Remove hazardous ground and installed support by means of blasting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  6 
    Fundamental  119373  Describe and represent objects in terms of shape, space and measurement  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Fundamental  119368  Describe, interpret and represent mathematical patterns, functions and algebra in different contexts  Level 1  NQF Level 01  6 
    Fundamental  119635  Engage in a range of speaking/signing and listening interactions for a variety of purposes  Level 1  NQF Level 01  6 
    Fundamental  119364  Evaluate and solve data handling and probability problems within given contexts  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Fundamental  119631  Explore and use a variety of strategies to learn  Level 1  NQF Level 01  5 
    Fundamental  15091  Plan to manage one`s time  Level 1  NQF Level 01  3 
    Fundamental  119640  Read/view and respond to a range of text types  Level 1  NQF Level 01  6 
    Fundamental  119636  Write/Sign for a variety of different purposes  Level 1  NQF Level 01  6 
    Elective  244465  Blast a misfired hole in a development end during the shift  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244441  Take charge of and drive a non-articulating vehicle underground  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  244476  Transfer broken rock by means of a diesel-powered load haul dumper (LHD) in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244467  Transfer broken rock by means of a remote-controlled Load Haul Dumper (LHD) in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  8 
    Elective  244482  Transfer broken rock by means of an electrically powered load haul dumper (LHD) in an underground mine  Level 2  NQF Level 02  4 
    Elective  244488  Connect and initiate a blast of a development end using shock tube  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  244463  Connect and initiate a blast of a stope face using shock tube  Level 3  NQF Level 03  3 
    Elective  244466  Drill holes by means of a skid steer secondary drill rig in an underground workplace  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  244477  Drill holes by means of an electro hydraulic drill rig in an underground workplace  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Elective  244474  Drill holes by means of an electro hydraulic long hole drill rig in an underground workplace  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Elective  244461  Mark shot holes for primary blasting in an underground working place  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  244473  Remove an obstruction from an ore pass by means of blasting  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  244372  Support an underground workplace by means of a hydraulic roof bolter  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  244397  Take charge of and operate a remote controlled vehicle underground  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  244457  Time, connect and initiate a blast of a face  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12 
    Elective  244489  Time, connect and initiate a number of shot holes using electric/electronic delay detonators  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  11473  Manage individual and team performance  Level 4  NQF Level 04  8 
    Elective  7873  Manage one`s own development  Level 4  NQF Level 04  3 


    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.
     
    1. ADCORP TECHNICAL TRAINING (PTY) LTD 
    2. ASSMANG (PTY) LTD 
    3. AVENG (AFRICA) (PTY) LTD 
    4. BAFOKENG RASIMONE MANAGEMENT SERVICES PTY LTD 
    5. BANA BA THARI MINING TRANING AND DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY 
    6. BARBERTON MINES (PTY) LTD 
    7. BOOYSENDAL PLATINUM (PTY) LTD 
    8. CONCOR PROJECTS PTY LTD 
    9. EASTERN CHROME MINES 
    10. EASTERN CHROME MINES SAMANCOR 
    11. FINSCH DIAMOND MINE(PTY) LTD 
    12. FOSKOR (PTY) LTD 
    13. GEOSTRAT TRAINING 
    14. HARMONY GOLD MINING CO LTD 
    15. IMPALA PLATINUM SERVICES LTD 
    16. MARULA PLATINUM PTY LTD 
    17. MATHOME TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT (PTY) LTD 
    18. MMTI Holdings 
    19. MODIKWA MINING PERSONNEL SERVICES PTY L TD 
    20. NORTHAM PLATINUM LTD 
    21. PALABORA COPPER (PTY) LTD 
    22. PRISMA TRAINING SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD 
    23. SIBANYE GOLD ACADEMY PROPRIETARY LIMITED 
    24. SIBANYE RUSTENBURG PLATINUM MINES PTY LTD 
    25. TAU LEKOA GOLD MINING COMPANY (PTY) LTD 
    26. TWO RIVERS PLATINUM (PTY) LTD 


    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.